Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX184BCNG

Overview

MAX184BCNG from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 3-µs successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with internal track/hold and reference, housed in a 24-pin PDIP package rated for 0°C to +70°C operation. It supports single +5V supply operation, features ±1 LSB integral nonlinearity, and is used in industrial data acquisition systems requiring fast, precision digitization of sensor signals.

For engineers reviewing the MAX184BCNG datasheet, MAX184BCNG pinout, MAX184BCNG application, or MAX184BCNG equivalent, key selection criteria include conversion speed, INL/DNL performance, single-supply compatibility, temperature range, and PDIP package suitability for prototyping and legacy board designs.

Technical Context

The MAX184BCNG implements a successive-approximation register (SAR) architecture with an integrated track-and-hold amplifier and 4.096V internal voltage reference. It accepts unipolar 0V to V_REF analog inputs and delivers parallel 12-bit digital output via a byte-wide interface with separate high- and low-byte strobes.

Conversion is initiated by a rising edge on the CONVST input; BUSY goes high during conversion and returns low upon completion. The device uses CMOS process technology and requires no external clock-conversion timing is internally controlled and fixed at 3 µs maximum.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX184BCNG is supplied in a 24-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), footprint code N24-3*, drawing 21-0043D. This through-hole package supports manual assembly, socketing, and thermal cycling in non-extreme environments.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX183BCNG and AD7892BN-10, the MAX184BCNG uniquely combines internal 4.096V reference, 24-pin PDIP compatibility, and guaranteed ±1 LSB INL in a single +5V supply configuration-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, or legacy-replacement applications where reference integration and mechanical fit are decisive.

Availability

MAX184BCNG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data acquisition, laboratory instrumentation, and embedded sensor interface applications requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and through-hole assembly support.

Supply support for MAX184BCNG 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, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX184BCNG belongs to Maxim's legacy precision ADC product line, designed specifically for applications demanding fast, single-supply, self-contained 12-bit digitization with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum conversion rate supported by the MAX184BCNG?

The MAX184BCNG has a maximum conversion time of 3 µs, enabling a theoretical maximum throughput of approximately 333 kSPS under ideal conditions with minimal inter-conversion delay. In practice, achievable sample rates depend on external interface timing, BUSY signal polling or interrupt latency, and OE/HBEN/LBEN handshaking overhead. The MAX184BCNG does not support continuous auto-conversion mode - each conversion must be explicitly triggered via CONVST.

Does the MAX184BCNG require an external reference voltage?

No, the MAX184BCNG includes a factory-trimmed, temperature-compensated 4.096V internal reference. This reference is available at the V_REF pin and can be used to scale the analog input (0V to V_REF). An external reference is optional and only needed if a different full-scale range is required; in that case, the internal reference must be disabled per the datasheet.

Can the MAX184BCNG operate from a 3.3V supply?

No, the MAX184BCNG is specified for +5V ±5% operation only. It is not 3.3V-compatible. Attempting to power the MAX184BCNG from 3.3V will result in improper internal biasing, failed conversions, and undefined BUSY or output behavior. For 3.3V systems, consider newer SAR ADCs such as the MAX11100 or AD7920 series.

What is the meaning of the 'BC' grade in MAX184BCNG?

The 'BC' grade in MAX184BCNG denotes commercial temperature range operation (0°C to +70°C) and standard performance specifications including ±1 LSB integral nonlinearity and 3 µs conversion time. It distinguishes the part from 'AC' (0°C to +70°C, tighter AC specs), 'AE'/'BE' (–40°C to +85°C), and 'AM'/'BM' (–55°C to +125°C) variants-all sharing the same core architecture but differing in temp range, INL/DNL limits, and packaging.

Is the MAX184BCNG pin-compatible with the MAX185BCNG?

No, the MAX184BCNG and MAX185BCNG are not pin-compatible. While both are 24-pin PDIP 12-bit ADCs from the same family, the MAX185BCNG features a serial interface (SPI-compatible) and different pin assignments for data, clock, and control signals. The MAX184BCNG uses a parallel byte-wide interface with HBEN/LBEN, whereas the MAX185BCNG uses SDATA, SCLK, and CS - requiring distinct PCB layouts and firmware drivers.