Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX146BEPP

Overview

The MAX146BEPP from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 8-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated track/hold, multiplexer, and internal 2.5V reference. It operates from a single +2.7V to +3.6V supply, achieves 133ksps conversion rate using an external 2MHz clock, and supports software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential inputs. It targets portable data logging and battery-powered instrumentation where low power and compact signal chain integration are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX146BEPP datasheet, MAX146BEPP pinout, MAX146BEPP application, or MAX146BEPP equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping, functional pin roles, real-world use cases in medical and process control systems, and two confirmed alternative ADCs with documented technical and application-level differences.

Technical Context

The MAX146BEPP uses successive-approximation architecture with a capacitive DAC and internal track/hold circuitry. Its analog input stage supports pseudo-differential sampling via CH0–CH7 and COM, with configurable channel pairing (e.g., CH0/CH1 for differential mode) and ±0.5LSB COM stability requirement during conversion.

It features a 4-wire SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial interface with SCLK, DIN, DOUT, and CS, plus dedicated SSTRB strobe output for TMS320-family DSP synchronization. Conversion timing is determined by either internal oscillator or externally supplied SCLK (40–60% duty cycle), with acquisition time fixed at 1.5µs minimum.

Key Specifications

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 spacing is 0.1 inch, compatible with standard PCB prototyping and industrial assembly processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.

Compared with MAX146BEPP, ADS7822U trades integrated reference and bipolar support for higher speed, while MAX11131AUT+ offers greater supply flexibility and speed at the cost of reduced full-scale resolution-making MAX146BEPP optimal for stable 2.5V-referenced, low-power, multi-mode sensor acquisition.

Availability

MAX146BEPP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and battery-powered test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX146BEPP belongs to Maxim's low-power serial ADC product line, engineered specifically for battery-operated and space-constrained data acquisition systems requiring integrated signal conditioning and minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum sampling rate achievable with MAX146BEPP?

The MAX146BEPP achieves a maximum conversion rate of 133ksps when using a 2MHz external serial clock and 15 clock cycles per conversion. This rate is guaranteed under specified conditions: VDD = +2.7V to +3.6V, fSCLK = 2.0MHz, and TA = 0°C to +70°C. Internal clock mode yields lower effective throughput due to oscillator tolerance and temperature drift, making external clock the preferred method for deterministic timing in the MAX146BEPP.

Does MAX146BEPP require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX146BEPP includes an internal 2.500V reference buffer with ±0.8% initial accuracy and ±30ppm/°C temperature coefficient. It is fully functional without external reference components. The REFADJ pin allows ±1.5% fine-tuning of VREF, and tying REFADJ to VDD disables the internal buffer-though this configuration is unnecessary and not recommended for MAX146BEPP, which is designed for internal reference operation.

How does the SHDN pin function on MAX146BEPP?

The SHDN pin on MAX146BEPP provides three-level control: pulled low → full shutdown (1µA supply current); pulled high → internal compensation mode for VREF; left floating → external compensation mode. Unlike simple on/off pins, SHDN directly configures the reference buffer topology and affects VREF stability. In all states, the MAX146BEPP retains its ability to wake instantly upon CS assertion, enabling rapid power cycling without initialization delay.

Can MAX146BEPP interface directly with a TMS320 DSP?

Yes, the MAX146BEPP supports direct connection to TMS320-family digital signal processors via its SSTRB (serial strobe) output. In external clock mode, SSTRB pulses high for exactly one SCLK period before the MSB of the 12-bit result appears on DOUT-providing precise hardware synchronization for DSP DMA or interrupt-driven capture. No level-shifting or timing glue logic is needed, as MAX146BEPP's 3.3V-compatible I/O aligns with TMS320 voltage requirements.

What are the analog input protection limits for MAX146BEPP?

The MAX146BEPP features internal clamping diodes that protect analog inputs (CH0–CH7, COM) from −0.3V to VDD + 0.3V. However, for accurate conversions near full scale, inputs must stay within AGND + 50mV to VDD − 50mV. Exceeding these 50mV margins risks forward-biasing protection diodes on inactive channels, limiting safe current to ≤2mA. These limits are absolute and apply regardless of operating mode-ensuring robustness in noisy industrial environments while preserving measurement integrity.