Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX14937AWE+

Overview

The MAX14937AWE+ from Maxim Integrated is a two-channel, 5kVRMS galvanic isolator designed for bidirectional I²C/SMBus/PMBus signal isolation across isolated power domains. It features open-drain A-side outputs with regulated logic-low voltage (≤0.9V), B-side conventional buffers, independent 2.25V–5.5V supplies per side, DC–1.7MHz data rate, and operation from –40°C to +125°C - enabling robust isolation in industrial power supplies and battery management systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX14937AWE+ datasheet, MAX14937AWE+ pinout, MAX14937AWE+ application, or MAX14937AWE+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 5kVRMS withstand rating (60s), 848VRMS working voltage, ±10kV surge immunity (IEC 61000-4-5), CMTI ≥25kV/µs, and compatibility with clock-stretching I²C busses requiring side-specific supply decoupling and pull-up resistor design.

Technical Context

The MAX14937AWE+ implements dual-channel capacitive digital isolation using Maxim's proprietary BiCMOS process, supporting true bidirectional communication without direction control pins. Its A-side output buffers actively regulate logic-low voltage to ≤0.9V while maintaining ≥50mV margin below input low threshold - preventing bus latch-up during I²C arbitration.

Each side operates independently with 2.25V–5.5V supplies and includes undervoltage lockout (UVLO) with 1.7V–2.2V threshold and 85mV hysteresis. The device supports clock stretching and tolerates common-mode transients up to 25kV/µs, with guaranteed performance over –40°C to +125°C ambient temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX14937AWE+ uses a 16-pin wide-body SOIC package (10.3mm × 7.5mm, outline 21-0042) with 8mm creepage and clearance, RoHS-compliant ('+' suffix), and rated for 5kVRMS isolation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I²C isolator applications.

Compared with ADUM1250ARZ and SI8602ED-B-IS, the MAX14937AWE+ uniquely combines 5kVRMS isolation, native open-drain I²C compatibility, A-side latch-up prevention, and guaranteed 1.7MHz operation - making it the only drop-in solution for high-reliability, clock-stretching I²C isolation in safety-critical 125°C environments.

Availability

MAX14937AWE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, battery management systems, programmable logic controllers, and medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MAX14937AWE+ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX14937AWE+ belongs to Maxim's high-isolation digital isolator product line, engineered specifically for robust, bidirectional I²C/SMBus signal transfer in safety-critical systems operating up to +125°C ambient temperature.

FAQ

What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX14937AWE+?

The MAX14937AWE+ supports a maximum data rate of 1.7MHz, verified across its full operating temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) and supply range (2.25V–5.5V). This exceeds standard I²C Fast Mode Plus (1MHz) and provides margin for clock stretching in multi-master bus configurations. Propagation delay remains stable at <125ns over temperature, ensuring timing compliance in high-speed isolated sensor networks.

Does the MAX14937AWE+ require external pull-up resistors on its I/O lines?

Yes, the MAX14937AWE+ requires external pull-up resistors on all four I/O pins (I/OA1, I/OA2, I/OB1, I/OB2) because they feature open-drain outputs. Pull-ups must connect to their respective local supplies (VDDA for Side A, VDDB for Side B). Recommended values range from 1kΩ to 10kΩ depending on bus capacitance and speed - 4.7kΩ is typical for 400kHz I²C with ≤400pF CLB loading.

How does the MAX14937AWE+ prevent I²C bus latch-up?

The MAX14937AWE+ prevents I²C bus latch-up via A-side output buffers that regulate logic-low voltage to ≤0.9V while setting the input logic-low threshold at least 50mV lower. This intentional margin ensures an A-side output low cannot be misinterpreted as a valid input low on the same side - eliminating feedback loops that cause bus contention. B-side outputs use conventional buffers and rely on external bus design for arbitration stability.

What safety certifications does the MAX14937AWE+ hold?

The MAX14937AWE+ is certified to UL1577 (5000VRMS, 1s), CSA Bulletin 5A (cUL), and VDE 0884-11:2017 (Basic Insulation, VIORM = 1200VPK). It also meets IEC 60950-1 and IEC 61010-1 working voltage requirements (848VRMS) and passes ±10kV surge testing per IEC 61000-4-5. These approvals validate its suitability for reinforced insulation in industrial and medical equipment.

Can the MAX14937AWE+ operate with mismatched supply voltages on Side A and Side B?

Yes, the MAX14937AWE+ supports independent supply voltages from 2.25V to 5.5V on Side A (VDDA) and Side B (VDDB), with no sequencing requirement. For example, VDDA may be 3.3V while VDDB is 5V - enabling seamless level translation between mixed-voltage subsystems. Undervoltage lockout operates independently per side, forcing high-Z outputs only on the affected side during brownout conditions.