Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX187ACWE+
- Part No.:
- MAX187ACWE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX187ACWE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 16SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:902
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX187ACWE+ from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated 4.096V buffered reference, single +5V supply operation, 75ksps throughput rate, ±½ LSB integral nonlinearity (A-grade), and 3-wire SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial interface - used in portable data loggers and isolated sensor front-ends where low power and small footprint are critical.
For engineers reviewing the MAX187ACWE+ datasheet, MAX187ACWE+ pinout, MAX187ACWE+ application, or MAX187ACWE+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package mapping to 16-pin wide SO, functional pin roles, real-world use cases, and two confirmed alternative ADCs with documented technical and application-level differences.
Technical Context
The MAX187ACWE+ implements an 8.5-clock-cycle SAR architecture with on-chip track/hold (1.5µs acquisition time), internal bandgap reference trimmed to 4.096V ±0.5%, and unipolar 0–VREF input range. Its serial interface operates without external hardware support for most microcontrollers.
It supports two operational modes: normal (1.5mA typical supply current) and shutdown (≤10µA), with SHDN pin controlling both power state and internal reference enable/disable. Conversion is initiated by CS falling edge; EOC signaled by DOUT high; data output MSB-first on SCLK falling edge.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit - delivers 4096 discrete digital codes over full-scale input range. |
| Integral Nonlinearity | ±½ LSB (A-grade) - ensures monotonicity and <0.012% full-scale error after calibration. |
| Throughput Rate | 75ksps - supports up to 37.5kHz Nyquist-limited sinusoidal input without aliasing. |
| Reference Voltage | 4.096V internal buffered - enables direct 1mV/LSB scaling; stable over 0°C to +70°C (±16mV max deviation). |
| Supply Current | 1.5mA typical operating / ≤10µA shutdown - reduces average power in burst-sampling systems. |
| Input Bandwidth | 4.5MHz small-signal - allows accurate digitization of fast transients and undersampling applications. |
| SINAD | 70dB at 10kHz - corresponds to ~11.4 effective bits, confirming high-fidelity signal capture. |
Pinout & Package
MAX187ACWE+ is housed in a 16-pin wide SO (SOIC-W) package with exposed pad (not electrically connected). Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin description table and functional diagram.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD (Pin 1) | Positive supply rail | +5V ±5% main power input; decoupling required near pin. |
| AIN (Pin 3) | Analog input | 0V to VREF unipolar sampling node; 16pF input capacitance requires low-Z drive. |
| SHDN (Pin 6) | Three-state shutdown control | Pull high → enable internal reference; float → disable reference for external use; pull low → 10µA shutdown mode. |
| REF (Pin 8) | Reference voltage I/O | Outputs 4.096V when internal ref enabled; accepts 2.5V–VDD external ref when disabled. |
| GND (Pin 5) | Ground | Combined analog/digital ground for 8-pin PDIP variant; SO version separates AGND/DGND (Pins 10/11). |
| DOUT (Pin 12) | Serial data output | 3-wire interface output; MSB-first, active-low EOC signal, transitions on SCLK falling edge. |
| CS (Pin 15) | Chip select | Active-low conversion trigger; initiates hold mode and starts SAR cycle on falling edge. |
| SCLK (Pin 16) | Serial clock input | Accepts 0–5MHz external clock; duty cycle unrestricted if ≥100ns per phase. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| On-chip 4.096V buffered reference | Eliminates need for external precision reference IC; supports 0.6mA load and ±30ppm/°C tempco (A-grade). |
| 1.5µs track/hold acquisition time | Enables accurate sampling of signals with source impedances ≤5kΩ without external hold capacitor. |
| 3-wire SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE compatibility | Interoperates with standard MCU peripherals without glue logic or level shifters. |
| 75ksps throughput with 8.5-clock conversion | Reduces host processor overhead; allows flexible read timing independent of conversion clock. |
| 2µA shutdown current | Extends battery life in portable sensors; wake-up time is 2 clock cycles (MAX187-specific). |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Remote Digital Signal Processing |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure at 10–100Hz intervals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC digitizing conditioned analog outputs from precision transducers; provides calibrated 12-bit results via SPI to low-power MCU. Use Value: Internal 4.096V reference ensures consistent LSB size across temperature; 10µA shutdown extends multi-year battery life. |
Use Scenario: Wireless vibration monitor mounted on rotating machinery, transmitting FFT-coefficient streams to gateway. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-fidelity front-end ADC capturing 0–5V accelerometer outputs at 75ksps for real-time spectral analysis. Use Value: 70dB SINAD and 4.5MHz input bandwidth preserve signal integrity for accurate harmonic detection up to 37.5kHz. |
| Isolated Data Acquisition | High-Accuracy Process Control |
Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted PLC module acquiring 4–20mA loop signals across galvanic isolation barrier. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolated-side ADC converting opto-coupled or transformer-coupled analog inputs; synchronized via isolated SPI clock. Use Value: Low 1.5mA operating current minimizes isolated supply loading; ±½ LSB INL meets SIL-2 analog input accuracy requirements. |
Use Scenario: Closed-loop temperature controller in semiconductor fabrication tool using RTD feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision ADC measuring ratiometric bridge output from 4-wire RTD; referenced to same 4.096V source as excitation DAC. Use Value: Matched internal reference eliminates ratio-metric drift; 0.012% INL supports ±0.1°C measurement resolution. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADS7822U | 2.7–5.25V supply; no internal reference; 1MSPS max rate; SPI-only interface; 10-bit resolution. | Requires external reference and level-shifting for 5V systems; higher speed but lower resolution limits precision use cases. | Select when higher throughput (>100ksps) is prioritized over resolution and reference integration. |
| AD7476AARMZ | +2.35–5.25V supply; no internal reference; 1MSPS; SPI interface; 12-bit, ±0.5 LSB INL; 1.25mW @ 1MSPS. | Lacks integrated reference and track/hold; requires external RC filter and reference buffer for DC accuracy. | Choose for ultra-low-power, high-speed sampling where system already provides precision reference and signal conditioning. |
Compared with MAX187ACWE+, ADS7822U trades resolution and reference integration for speed, while AD7476AARMZ offers higher sample rate but demands more external components to match MAX187ACWE+'s out-of-box precision and ease of use in space-constrained, low-power designs.
Availability
MAX187ACWE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, remote DSP, and isolated data acquisition requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MAX187ACWE+ 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, medical, and communications applications, with emphasis on integration, low power, and reliability.
The MAX187 series belongs to Maxim's precision data acquisition product line, engineered specifically for low-power, space-constrained systems needing self-contained 12-bit ADC functionality without external reference or support circuitry.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX187ACWE+?
The 'C' grade in MAX187ACWE+ denotes the commercial temperature range: 0°C to +70°C. This is confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables of the official datasheet, where all DC and dynamic specifications are guaranteed across this interval. The device remains functional outside this range but is not tested or warranted for performance beyond 0°C to +70°C.
Does MAX187ACWE+ require an external reference capacitor?
Yes - MAX187ACWE+ requires a 4.7µF capacitor at the REF pin when using its internal 4.096V reference. This is explicitly specified in the datasheet's Pin Description and Reference section. Omitting it causes reference instability and degrades INL, gain error, and temperature drift performance. For external reference use, a 0.1µF capacitor is required instead.
Can MAX187ACWE+ interface directly with an Arduino or STM32 SPI peripheral?
Yes - MAX187ACWE+ is fully compatible with standard SPI interfaces when configured with CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0. Its 3-wire protocol (CS, SCLK, DOUT) matches Arduino's hardware SPI and STM32's SPIx peripherals. No level shifting is needed for 5V-tolerant MCUs; for 3.3V-only hosts, a bidirectional level shifter is recommended on SCLK and CS lines.
What is the minimum acquisition time between conversions for MAX187ACWE+?
The minimum acquisition time (tACQ) for MAX187ACWE+ is 1.5µs, as specified in the Timing Characteristics table. This is the shortest time the track/hold circuit requires to settle before initiating the next conversion after CS is pulled low again. Violating this interval risks incomplete sampling and increased code-dependent errors.
How does the SHDN pin affect the internal reference in MAX187ACWE+?
In MAX187ACWE+, pulling SHDN high enables the internal 4.096V reference; leaving SHDN floating disables it, allowing external reference use; pulling SHDN low places the device in shutdown mode (≤10µA supply current). This three-state behavior is unique to the MAX187 family and is documented in the Pin Description and Detailed Description sections of the datasheet.
MAX187ACWE+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Number of Bits:
- 12
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- 75k
- Number of Inputs:
- 1
- Input Type:
- Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Configuration:
- S/H-ADC
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- 1:1
- Number of A/D Converters:
- 1
- Architecture:
- SAR
- Reference Type:
- Internal
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- 5V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- 5V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-SOIC
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX187ACWE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX187ACWE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX187ACWE+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX187ACWE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX187ACWE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX187ACWE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX187ACWE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX187ACWE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX187ACWE+?
MAX187ACWE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX187ACWE+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX187ACWE+?
For technical support, including MAX187ACWE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX187ACWE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX187ACWE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX187ACWE+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX187ACWE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX187ACWE+?
All MAX187ACWE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX187ACWE+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX187ACWE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX187ACWE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX187ACWE+ Tags

-
ADC081C021CIMKX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3021A5T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
TLA2024IRUGR
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3221A5T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A5T-I/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A4T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A6T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A0T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3221A1T-E/OT
Microchip Technology

-
ADC121S021CIMFX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
MCP3001-I/MS
Microchip Technology

-
MCP3001-I/SN
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

