Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX146BEPP+
- Part No.:
- MAX146BEPP+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX146BEPP+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC LP 12-BIT 133KSPS 20-DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,545
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Product details
Overview
The MAX146BEPP+ from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 8-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated track/hold, software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential inputs, internal 2.5V reference, and SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 4-wire serial interface. It operates from a single +2.7V to +3.6V supply, achieves 133ksps conversion rate, consumes only 1.2mA at full speed, and supports shutdown current as low as 1µA - ideal for portable data loggers and battery-powered medical instruments.
For engineers reviewing the MAX146BEPP+ datasheet, MAX146BEPP+ pinout, MAX146BEPP+ application, or MAX146BEPP+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin PDIP package, ±0.5 LSB INL, 73dB SINAD at 10kHz, internal reference accuracy (±0.2% initial, ±30ppm/°C drift), and compatibility with TMS320-family DSPs via SSTRB strobe output.
Technical Context
The MAX146BEPP+ employs a successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with a capacitive DAC and integrated track/hold circuitry. Its analog input stage supports pseudo-differential sampling with COM-referenced zero-code alignment and ±0.5LSB COM stability requirement during conversion.
It features dual clocking modes: internal oscillator (enabling autonomous operation) or external serial clock (supporting precise timing control up to 2MHz). The 8-bit control byte configures channel selection (CH0–CH7), input mode (unipolar/bipolar), polarity (single-ended/differential), and power-down state - all processed before conversion begins.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit SAR ADC - delivers 4096 discrete digital codes with monotonic transfer function and no missing codes. |
| Conversion Rate | 133ksps with 2MHz external clock - enables real-time sampling of signals up to ~65kHz full-power bandwidth. |
| INL / DNL | ±0.5 LSB integral nonlinearity, ±0.8 LSB differential nonlinearity - ensures accurate end-point calibration and linearity-critical measurements. |
| Reference | Internal 2.500V ±0.2% (TYP), ±30ppm/°C tempco - eliminates need for external reference in cost-sensitive designs; REFADJ allows ±1.5% adjustment. |
| Supply Current | 1.2mA @ 133ksps / 3V, 54µA @ 1ksps / 3V, 1µA in power-down - enables adaptive power management in intermittent-sampling systems. |
| Input Configuration | 8-channel single-ended OR 4-channel differential - configurable via software control byte; COM pin sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode. |
| Digital Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320-compatible 4-wire serial - requires no level-shifting logic; SSTRB provides hardware-synced conversion status for DSP interfacing. |
Pinout & Package
MAX146BEPP+ is housed in a 20-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin pitch is 0.1 inch; lead finish is matte tin.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1–8 (CH0–CH7) | Analog Input Channels | Eight multiplexed analog inputs; selectable as single-ended (vs. COM) or differential pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, etc.) via control byte. |
| 9 (COM) | Analog Common Reference | Sets zero-code voltage in single-ended mode; must remain stable to ±0.5LSB during conversion for accuracy. |
| 10 (SHDN) | Three-Level Shutdown Control | Pull low → full shutdown (1µA); float → external compensation mode; pull high → internal compensation mode. |
| 11 (VREF) | Reference Output/Input | 2.500V nominal output (MAX146 only); also accepts external reference when buffer disabled via REFADJ. |
| 12 (REFADJ) | Reference Buffer Adjustment | Allows ±1.5% fine-tuning of VREF; tie to VDD to disable internal reference buffer for external reference use. |
| 13 (AGND) | Analog Ground | Separate ground return for analog circuitry; must be isolated from DGND except at single-point star ground. |
| 14 (DGND) | Digital Ground | Ground return for digital I/O and logic; decoupling capacitor required between VDD and DGND near pin 20. |
| 15 (DOUT) | Serial Data Output | 3-state output; data valid on SCLK falling edge; high-impedance when CS = high. |
| 16 (SSTRB) | Serial Strobe Output | Active-low pulse indicating conversion start/end; directly interfaces with TMS320-family DSPs for synchronized data capture. |
| 17 (DIN) | Serial Data Input | Accepts 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; first '1' bit defines MSB regardless of leading zeros. |
| 18 (CS) | Chip Select | Active-low enable; controls DOUT three-state behavior and initiates control-byte latching sequence. |
| 19 (SCLK) | Serial Clock Input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) conversion timing; duty cycle must be 40–60%. |
| 20 (VDD) | Positive Supply | +2.7V to +3.6V single supply; bypass with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor close to pin for noise suppression. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input topology | Single-ended or differential, unipolar or bipolar - selected dynamically per conversion via 8-bit control byte without hardware change. |
| Integrated reference buffer with trim | 2.500V ±0.2% output with ±1.5% REFADJ adjustment range and 0.047µF external compensation capacitor support. |
| Low-power adaptive shutdown | Automatic power-down after conversion; wake-up on CS assertion with <1µs turn-on time - enables µA-level average current at low sampling rates. |
| TMS320-family DSP interface support | Dedicated SSTRB output pulses synchronously with conversion completion - eliminates polling and reduces CPU overhead in real-time systems. |
| Robust analog input protection | Clamp diodes allow safe overvoltage to AGND −0.3V / VDD +0.3V; full-scale accuracy maintained within AGND +50mV to VDD −50mV range. |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure over days using intermittent sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC acquiring multi-channel analog sensor outputs with programmable gain and offset compensation. Use Value: 1.2mA active current and 1µA shutdown current extend battery life; internal reference eliminates BOM cost and layout area for external precision reference. | Use Scenario: Handheld ECG monitor digitizing biopotential signals from electrode leads with high common-mode rejection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end ADC performing pseudo-differential acquisition of amplified lead signals with COM-referenced baseline stability. Use Value: ±0.5 LSB INL and 73dB SINAD ensure diagnostic-grade waveform fidelity; software-selectable bipolar mode accommodates negative deflections in cardiac cycles. |
| Battery-Powered Test Equipment | Industrial Process Monitoring |
Use Scenario: Pocket-sized multimeter measuring DC voltage, current, and resistance with autoranging and auto-zero functions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision measurement ADC supporting calibrated unipolar 0–2.5V input range and fast channel switching between test functions. Use Value: Internal 2.5V reference provides stable full-scale point across temperature; 8-channel mux reduces external multiplexer count and PCB space. | Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted PLC analog input module acquiring 4–20mA loop signals and thermocouple outputs in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolated channel ADC converting conditioned industrial sensor outputs with robust noise immunity and wide supply tolerance (+2.7V to +3.6V). Use Value: 20-pin DIP package enables through-hole reliability in harsh environments; ±80ppm/°C max VREF tempco meets Class A industrial accuracy requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 200ksps, SPI-only interface, no internal reference, requires external 2.5V ref, 8-pin SOIC package | Lacks bipolar mode and COM-referenced single-ended operation; optimized for high-speed single-channel use | Choose when higher throughput and smaller footprint outweigh need for internal reference and flexible input configuration. |
| MAX11131EUB+ | 12-bit, 500ksps, internal reference (2.048V), SPI/QSPI compatible, 10-pin µMAX package, lower power (0.9mA @ 500ksps) | No differential input support; fixed unipolar range only; lacks SSTRB strobe output for DSP sync | Prefer for ultra-low-power, space-constrained designs where differential acquisition and DSP interfacing are not required. |
Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11131EUB+, the MAX146BEPP+ uniquely combines internal 2.5V reference, software-configurable bipolar/differential operation, and TMS320-compatible SSTRB strobe - making it optimal for portable, multi-sensor, DSP-coupled systems requiring minimal external components and flexible signal conditioning.
Availability
MAX146BEPP+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply with long-term manufacturability and consistent parametric performance.
Supply support for MAX146BEPP+ 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) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.
The MAX146BEPP+ belongs to Maxim's precision data-acquisition product line, designed specifically for low-power, multi-channel, microprocessor-interfaced ADC applications where integration, accuracy, and supply flexibility are critical.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX146BEPP+?
The MAX146BEPP+ is specified for operation from 0°C to +70°C ambient temperature. This commercial-grade rating aligns with its 20-pin plastic DIP packaging and makes it suitable for indoor, portable, and non-military industrial applications. The device maintains full DC accuracy and dynamic performance (e.g., ±0.5 LSB INL, 73dB SINAD) across this range, with VREF tempco limited to ±30ppm/°C typical.
Does the MAX146BEPP+ require an external reference voltage?
No, the MAX146BEPP+ includes an internal 2.500V reference with ±0.2% initial accuracy and ±30ppm/°C temperature coefficient - eliminating the need for an external reference in most applications. The REFADJ pin allows ±1.5% adjustment if system-level calibration is required. An external reference may be used only by disabling the internal buffer (via REFADJ tied to VDD), but this is not necessary for standard operation of the MAX146BEPP+.
How does the SHDN pin function on the MAX146BEPP+?
The SHDN pin on the MAX146BEPP+ supports three distinct states: pulled low → full shutdown (1µA supply current); left floating → external compensation mode for VREF (requires 0.047µF cap at REFADJ); pulled high → internal compensation mode (4.7µF cap at VREF). This three-level control enables flexible power management and reference configuration without additional external logic, directly supporting low-power design goals in battery-operated systems.
Can the MAX146BEPP+ perform differential measurements?
Yes, the MAX146BEPP+ supports true pseudo-differential measurements across four channel pairs: CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, CH4/CH5, and CH6/CH7. In differential mode, the device samples the voltage difference |IN+ − IN−|, with IN− required to remain stable to ±0.5LSB relative to AGND. This capability is enabled via the SGL/DIF bit in the 8-bit control byte and does not require external hardware changes - making it ideal for noise-rejecting sensor interfaces like bridge transducers or thermocouples.
What digital interfaces are supported by the MAX146BEPP+?
The MAX146BEPP+ supports SPI™, QSPI™, and MICROWIRE™ protocols via its 4-wire serial interface (CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT), requiring no external level-shifting or glue logic. It also provides direct TMS320-family DSP compatibility through the SSTRB strobe output, which pulses synchronously with conversion start/end. The interface operates with CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0 for SPI, and supports clock frequencies from 100kHz to 2MHz - ensuring seamless integration with common microcontrollers and digital signal processors.
MAX146BEPP+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- *
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Number of Bits:
- -
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- -
- Number of Inputs:
- -
- Input Type:
- -
- Data Interface:
- -
- Configuration:
- -
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- -
- Number of A/D Converters:
- -
- Architecture:
- -
- Reference Type:
- -
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- -
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- -
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX146BEPP+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX146BEPP+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX146BEPP+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX146BEPP+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX146BEPP+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX146BEPP+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX146BEPP+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX146BEPP+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX146BEPP+?
MAX146BEPP+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX146BEPP+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX146BEPP+?
For technical support, including MAX146BEPP+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX146BEPP+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX146BEPP+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX146BEPP+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX146BEPP+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX146BEPP+?
All MAX146BEPP+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX146BEPP+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX146BEPP+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX146BEPP+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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