Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1446EHJ+

Overview

MAX1446EHJ+ from Maxim Integrated is a 10-bit, 60Msps, single-supply 3.0V analog-to-digital converter with fully differential input, pipelined architecture, and integrated 2.048V precision bandgap reference. It delivers 59.5dB SNR at 20MHz input frequency, consumes 30mA in normal operation, and supports -40°C to +85°C extended industrial temperature range - optimized for ultrasound imaging and baseband digitization.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1446EHJ+ datasheet, MAX1446EHJ+ pinout, MAX1446EHJ+ application, or MAX1446EHJ+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world interface constraints (e.g., 5.5-cycle latency, 400MHz -3dB input bandwidth), confirmed power-down behavior (5µA), and validated alternative options for high-speed, low-power ADC selection in medical and communications systems.

Technical Context

The MAX1446EHJ+ implements a 10-stage, fully differential pipelined ADC architecture with digital error correction, enabling high-speed conversion while minimizing comparator offset errors. Each stage contributes 1.5 bits of resolution, and the overall pipeline achieves 5.5 clock-cycle latency with sampling on the falling edge of CLK.

Its input track-and-hold features a 400MHz -3dB bandwidth and supports both fully differential and single-ended analog inputs. The internal reference system allows three operating modes: internal (REFOUT → REFIN), buffered external (voltage applied to REFIN), or unbuffered external (REFIN = AGND), with REFP/REFN/COM providing low-impedance, buffered outputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX1446EHJ+ is housed in a 32-pin TQFP package (5mm × 5mm, 0.8mm pitch) with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin assignments are validated per Maxim's official pin description table and functional diagram.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed, low-power ADC applications.

Compared with MAX1446EHJ+, MAX1444EHJ+ trades speed for lower power and cost in bandwidth-constrained systems, while MAX1448EHJ+ extends usable input frequency range at the expense of increased supply current and thermal load - all share identical pinout and reference flexibility.

Availability

MAX1446EHJ+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ultrasound imaging systems, CCD-based machine vision platforms, and digital set-top boxes requiring stable component supply across extended industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX1446EHJ+ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX1446EHJ+ belongs to Maxim's high-speed, low-power ADC product line, engineered specifically for imaging and digital communications systems requiring excellent dynamic performance under tight power and thermal constraints.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MAX1446EHJ+?

The MAX1446EHJ+ supports a maximum clock frequency of 60MHz, enabling full 10-bit resolution sampling at 60Msps. Operation above this frequency degrades INL and DNL performance and may cause metastability in the pipeline stages. The device is characterized and guaranteed for stable operation up to 60MHz with 45–55% duty cycle and <2ns rise/fall times.

Does the MAX1446EHJ+ require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX1446EHJ+ includes an internal 2.048V ±1% precision bandgap reference (REFOUT) that can be directly connected to REFIN for self-contained operation. External references are optional and used only when higher accuracy, different full-scale range, or improved temperature stability is required - the internal reference remains fully functional and calibrated across -40°C to +85°C.

How does the power-down mode affect wake-up time and performance recovery in the MAX1446EHJ+?

In power-down mode (PD = high), the MAX1446EHJ+ draws only 5µA and disables internal bias currents. Wake-up time to full performance is 366–520µs, defined as the interval from PD low until SNR reaches within 0.3 ENOB of final value at fIN = 10MHz. During wake-up, REFOUT stabilizes first, followed by analog front-end settling - no additional calibration is needed post-wake-up.

Can the MAX1446EHJ+ accept single-ended analog inputs?

Yes, the MAX1446EHJ+ supports single-ended operation: connect the signal source to IN+, tie IN- to COM, and maintain matched trace impedance. While differential mode delivers best SFDR (73dBc), single-ended operation still achieves 59.5dB SNR and 71.1dBc SFDR at 20MHz - sufficient for many video digitizing and baseband applications where layout simplicity outweighs ultimate dynamic range.

What is the digital output latency of the MAX1446EHJ+ and how is it synchronized to the clock?

The MAX1446EHJ+ has a fixed 5.5-clock-cycle latency from sampling instant (CLK falling edge) to valid D9–D0 output (on subsequent CLK rising edge). This deterministic delay enables precise timing alignment in FPGA or ASIC-based digital signal processing pipelines without variable buffering. Latency is independent of input frequency, temperature, or supply voltage within specified operating ranges.