Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX187CEWE+

Overview

MAX187CEWE+ from Maxim Integrated is a +5V, low-power, 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated 4.096V buffered reference, 75ksps throughput, and SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 3-wire serial interface. It operates in 0°C to +70°C industrial temperature range, features 1.5µs track/hold acquisition time, ±½ LSB integral nonlinearity (A-grade), and consumes only 1.5mA typical supply current in active mode.

For engineers reviewing the MAX187CEWE+ datasheet, MAX187CEWE+ pinout, MAX187CEWE+ application, or MAX187CEWE+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions for 16-pin wide SO package, real-world use scenarios in isolated data acquisition and remote sensor systems, and two validated alternative ADCs with documented functional and packaging differences.

Technical Context

The MAX187CEWE+ implements an 8.5-clock-cycle SAR architecture with on-chip track/hold, internal bandgap reference trimmed to 4.096V ±0.5%, and unipolar 0V–VREF input range. Its serial interface uses CS-active-low initiation, SCLK-synchronized DOUT output with MSB-first format, and supports external clock rates up to 5MHz.

Conversion timing is fully self-contained: CS falling edge triggers hold mode and starts conversion; end-of-conversion (EOC) is signaled by DOUT high; data becomes available after fixed 8.5µs t_CONV, requiring ≥13 SCLK falling edges (1 leading EOC bit + 12 data bits) for full readout. Shutdown is controlled via SHDN pin, reducing supply current to ≤10µA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX187CEWE+ is housed in a 16-pin wide SO (SOIC-W) package with exposed pad (not electrically connected). Pin 1 is located at top-left corner when notch faces upward; pin numbering proceeds counterclockwise.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADS7822U and MAX11131AUT+, the MAX187CEWE+ uniquely combines +5V operation, factory-trimmed 4.096V reference, and industrial temperature range in a single 16-pin SO package - making it optimal for legacy 5V systems requiring guaranteed accuracy without reference sourcing overhead.

Availability

MAX187CEWE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, remote digital signal processing, isolated data acquisition, and high-accuracy process control requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX187CEWE+ 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 fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX187CEWE+ belongs to Maxim's precision data acquisition product line, designed specifically for low-power, space-constrained systems requiring integrated reference stability and simple serial interfacing without external support components.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage configuration of the MAX187CEWE+?

The MAX187CEWE+ features an on-chip, laser-trimmed 4.096V buffered bandgap reference. When the SHDN pin is pulled high, the internal reference is enabled and drives the REF pin. This eliminates the need for external reference components and ensures ±0.5% initial accuracy with ±30ppm/°C temperature coefficient. The MAX187CEWE+ does not require an external reference unless SHDN is left floating to operate in external-reference mode.

Does the MAX187CEWE+ support SPI, QSPI, and MICROWIRE protocols?

Yes, the MAX187CEWE+ serial interface is explicitly compatible with SPI, QSPI, and MICROWIRE standards. It uses CS-active-low initiation, SCLK-synchronized DOUT output, and MSB-first data framing. For SPI/QSPI, configure CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0. The interface requires no additional level-shifting or protocol translation logic, enabling direct connection to microcontrollers such as STM32, PIC, or MSP430 families.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MAX187CEWE+ serial interface?

The MAX187CEWE+ supports external SCLK frequencies up to 5MHz. Each SCLK cycle must have minimum high and low times of 100ns, but duty cycle is unrestricted. Data is sampled on the rising edge of SCLK and changes on the falling edge. At 5MHz, the full 13-bit sequence (1 EOC + 12 data bits) can be read in 2.6µs, enabling high-throughput data capture in time-critical applications.

How does shutdown mode affect conversion timing in the MAX187CEWE+?

In shutdown mode (SHDN pulled low), the MAX187CEWE+ draws ≤10µA and halts all internal operations. To resume conversion, SHDN must be deasserted (high or floating), after which the device wakes up in 2µs (t_WAKE). A valid conversion may then be initiated via CS falling edge. No additional stabilization delay is required beyond t_WAKE, as the internal reference remains stable due to its buffered architecture.

What are the absolute maximum ratings for the analog input of the MAX187CEWE+?

The MAX187CEWE+ analog input (AIN) has absolute maximum ratings of –0.3V to (VDD + 0.3V). However, for specified DC accuracy, the input must remain within 0V to VREF (i.e., 0V to 4.096V). Input excursions beyond GND – 50mV or VDD + 50mV will degrade conversion linearity and may cause latch-up if current exceeds 2mA. Internal protection diodes clamp out-of-range signals, but sustained overvoltage requires external series resistance.