Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX174BEWI

Overview

MAX174BEWI from Maxim Integrated is a monolithic 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated buried-zener voltage reference and on-chip clock, delivering 8μs max conversion time, ±1/2 LSB integral nonlinearity at +25°C, and 150mW power dissipation at ±15V supplies. It supports pin-strappable unipolar (0 to +10V or 0 to +20V) and bipolar (±5V or ±10V) input ranges and interfaces directly to 8-, 12-, and 16-bit microprocessor buses in industrial data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX174BEWI datasheet, MAX174BEWI pinout, MAX174BEWI application, or MAX174BEWI equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world timing behavior under full-control and stand-alone modes, and validated alternative options for high-accuracy, high-speed ADC selection in embedded control and signal processing designs.

Technical Context

The MAX174BEWI employs a successive approximation register (SAR) architecture with a 2.5kΩ-output-impedance internal DAC and zero-crossing comparator feedback loop. Its internal 10V buried-zener reference achieves 10ppm/°C temperature coefficient and supports external loading up to 2mA when operated from ±15V supplies.

Conversion is initiated via R/C low pulse in stand-alone mode or through coordinated CE/CS/R/C logic in full microprocessor interface mode. Data output format is selectable between 12-bit word (12/8 = high) or byte-split 8-bit bus mode (12/8 = low), with A0 controlling MSB/LSB byte access - enabling direct integration without external latches or buffers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX174BEWI is supplied in a 28-pin wide-body SOIC (SO) package with 0.3-inch body width and standard JEDEC MS-013AC footprint. Pin spacing is 0.05 inch (1.27 mm), and lead finish is matte tin.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MX674AEWI and AD7874KNZ, the MAX174BEWI offers the fastest conversion (8μs), lowest power (150mW), and highest integration (on-chip clock + reference), making it optimal for space-constrained, high-throughput industrial and medical data acquisition where minimal external components are critical.

Availability

MAX174BEWI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, automated test equipment, and motor control feedback systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for MAX174BEWI 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 markets.

The MAX174BEWI belongs to Maxim's industry-standard complete ADC family designed for high-accuracy, high-speed data acquisition in noise-sensitive environments where integration of reference, clock, and interface logic reduces system complexity.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX174BEWI?

The MAX174BEWI is specified for operation from –40°C to +85°C (industrial grade). This range is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Operating Temperature Ranges" for MAX174_E suffix variants, and the BEWI package marking aligns with this grade. The device maintains ±1/2 LSB INL and 10ppm/°C reference stability across this full span.

Does the MAX174BEWI require external clock circuitry?

No, the MAX174BEWI does not require external clock circuitry. It integrates a precision on-chip clock generator optimized for its SAR conversion cycle. The internal clock runs at 2MHz for the MAX174BEWI variant, enabling the 8μs maximum conversion time without any external timing components - a key differentiator from competing 12-bit ADCs like the AD7874.

Can the MAX174BEWI operate with a single +5V supply?

No, the MAX174BEWI cannot operate with a single +5V supply. It requires three independent supplies: VCC (+11.4V to +16.5V), VEE (–11.4V to –16.5V), and VL (+4.5V to +5.5V). This triple-supply architecture is necessary to support its ±10V bipolar input range and internal buried-zener reference - confirmed in Absolute Maximum Ratings and Power Requirements sections.

How is the analog input range selected on the MAX174BEWI?

The analog input range on the MAX174BEWI is selected exclusively via pin strapping: connecting 10VIN or 20VIN to the signal source, grounding AGND, and wiring BIPOFF to REFOUT for bipolar ranges (±5V/±10V) or leaving it open/grounded for unipolar (0 to +10V/+20V). No software configuration or register writes are involved - all range selection is hardware-defined per Figure 13 and Table 3.

What is the purpose of the STS pin on the MAX174BEWI?

The STS (Status) pin on the MAX174BEWI is an active-high, open-drain output that goes high at conversion start and returns low upon completion. It provides hardware handshaking for microprocessors - enabling polling or interrupt-driven data reads without timing guesswork. Its 320ns max delay (tDSC) and guaranteed timing under all temperature grades make it reliable for real-time control loops.