Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX14936AAWE+

Overview

MAX14936AAWE+ from Maxim Integrated is a four-channel, unidirectional 5kVRMS digital isolator with 150Mbps data rate, 1.71V–5.5V dual-supply operation per side, and default-low output configuration. It provides galvanic isolation between microcontroller GPIO and industrial fieldbus interfaces such as isolated SPI or RS-485 transceivers in battery management systems operating up to +125°C ambient.

For engineers reviewing the MAX14936AAWE+ datasheet, MAX14936AAWE+ pinout, MAX14936AAWE+ application, or MAX14936AAWE+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, functional channel mapping, safety-certified isolation ratings, and real-world design context for high-speed multichannel isolation in harsh environments.

Technical Context

The MAX14936AAWE+ implements capacitive isolation with proprietary silicon-dioxide barrier technology, supporting asymmetric 1.71V–5.5V supplies on each side for level translation. Its 150Mbps capability enables direct interface with high-speed SPI clock domains and fast digital I/O modules without external signal conditioning.

It features independent active-high enable inputs (ENA/ENB), 25kV/µs common-mode transient immunity, and propagation delay skew under 3ns (channel-to-channel, same direction) at 5V supply - critical for timing-critical control loops and synchronized sensor data acquisition across isolated domains.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX14936AAWE+ uses a 16-pin wide-body SOIC package (W16M+8, outline 21-0042) with 8mm creepage/clearance and RoHS-compliant finish. Pin 1 is marked with a dot; pins are arranged in two rows (1–8 top, 9–16 bottom), with Side A (VDDA/GNDA/INA_/ENA) and Side B (VDDB/GNDB/INB_/ENB/OUTB_) fully segregated across the isolation barrier.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital isolator applications.

Compared with ADUM4402BRIZ and SI8642ED-B-IS, the MAX14936AAWE+ uniquely combines 150Mbps performance, 5kVRMS certification, default-low outputs, and full 1.71V–5.5V dual-supply range - making it optimal for next-generation BMS and high-speed industrial I/O where timing, safety, and voltage flexibility are co-constrained.

Availability

MAX14936AAWE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial fieldbus nodes, battery management systems, isolated SPI interfaces, and programmable logic controller I/O modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and safety-critical environments.

Supply support for MAX14936AAWE+ 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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets with emphasis on reliability and integration.

The MAX14934–MAX14936 family was engineered specifically for high-speed, high-isolation multichannel digital signal transfer in harsh industrial and medical environments - prioritizing CMTI, data rate, and safety certification over generic isolation use cases.

FAQ

What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX14936AAWE+?

The MAX14936AAWE+ supports a maximum data rate of 150Mbps, verified across its full operating temperature range (−40°C to +125°C) and supply voltage range (1.71V to 5.5V per side). This enables direct interface with high-speed SPI peripherals and fast digital I/O without external clock division or serialization. The 150Mbps rating is specified under typical load conditions (CL = 15pF) and applies to all four channels simultaneously.

Does the MAX14936AAWE+ require external pull-up or pull-down resistors on its enable pins?

No, the MAX14936AAWE+ includes internal 2µA pull-up resistors on both ENA and ENB pins, tying them to their respective supplies (VDDA and VDDB). This eliminates the need for external components to establish a default-enabled state. However, if active-low enable functionality is required, external pull-downs may be added - though doing so overrides the internal pull-up and must be accounted for in power budgeting.

What safety certifications does the MAX14936AAWE+ hold?

The MAX14936AAWE+ is certified to UL 1577 (5000VRMS for 60s), CSA Bulletin 5A (cUL), and VDE 0884-11:2017 (Basic Insulation, VIOWM = 848VRMS, VIORM = 1200VPK). It also meets IEC 61010-1 and IEC 60601-1 requirements for industrial and medical equipment. These certifications are production-tested and documented in file E351759 (UL/cUL) and 5015017-4880-0001 (VDE).

How does the MAX14936AAWE+ handle undervoltage conditions on its power supplies?

The MAX14936AAWE+ incorporates undervoltage lockout (UVLO) circuitry on both VDDA and VDDB rails, with a threshold of 1.45V to 1.71V and 50mV hysteresis. When either supply drops below UVLO, the corresponding side's outputs enter a high-impedance state (if enabled) or maintain default state (if unpowered), preventing undefined logic levels. This protects downstream circuitry during brownout or sequencing faults.

Can the MAX14936AAWE+ be used for bidirectional communication like I²C?

No, the MAX14936AAWE+ is a unidirectional isolator - INA1–INA4 drive OUTB1–OUTB4 only, and no reverse-path channels exist. For bidirectional protocols such as I²C, Maxim specifies the MAX14937 family. Attempting to implement bidirectional signaling using two MAX14936AAWE+ devices introduces timing mismatches, contention risk, and violates the device's functional architecture as defined in the datasheet.