Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX188ACPP

Overview

MAX188ACPP from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit, 8-channel serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with software-configurable unipolar/bipolar and single-ended/differential inputs, internal track/hold, and SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 4-wire serial interface. It operates from a single +5V or dual ±5V supply, achieves 133ksps sampling rate, and draws only 1.5mA in active mode - ideal for battery-powered instrumentation and portable data logging.

For engineers reviewing the MAX188ACPP datasheet, MAX188ACPP pinout, MAX188ACPP application, or MAX188ACPP equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated package and pin functions, confirmed alternative options, and supply-chain support details specific to the MAX188ACPP variant.

Technical Context

The MAX188ACPP uses successive-approximation (SAR) architecture with an integrated track/hold circuit enabling 1.5µs acquisition time and 4.5MHz small-signal bandwidth. It requires an external reference voltage applied at VREF (typically 4.096V), unlike the MAX186 which includes an internal 4.096V reference.

Its 4-wire serial interface supports both internal clock mode (conversion controlled internally, SSTRB indicates completion) and external clock mode (SCLK drives conversion timing, up to 2MHz), with configurable power-down modes reducing current to 2µA. Channel selection, input polarity, and differential/single-ended mode are fully software-controlled via an 8-bit command byte.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX188ACPP is housed in a 20-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch body width, RoHS-compliant and lead-free per + suffix designation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX186ACPP and ADS7822U, the MAX188ACPP uniquely balances external reference flexibility, differential input capability, and low-power shutdown - making it optimal for portable, precision, multi-sensor systems where calibration stability and noise rejection are critical.

Availability

MAX188ACPP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and high-accuracy process control requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (0°C to +70°C).

Supply support for MAX188ACPP 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, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX186/MAX188 product line was designed for low-power, high-accuracy data acquisition in space- and energy-constrained systems - emphasizing integration of multiplexer, track/hold, and serial interface in a single 20-pin package.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage requirement for MAX188ACPP?

The MAX188ACPP requires an external reference voltage applied to the VREF pin, typically 4.096V, as it lacks an internal reference. The device uses this reference to define full-scale input range; deviation directly impacts measurement accuracy. Unlike the MAX186ACPP, the MAX188ACPP does not include an internal reference, so external reference selection must account for temperature drift, noise, and load regulation to maintain ±0.75 LSB relative accuracy.

Does MAX188ACPP support differential input mode?

Yes, the MAX188ACPP supports pseudo-differential input mode using four channel pairs: CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, CH4/CH5, and CH6/CH7. This is configured via the SGL/DIF bit in the 8-bit control byte. In differential mode, the device samples the voltage difference between the selected pair, with IN– held stable within ±0.5 LSB of AGND during conversion. A 0.1µF capacitor from the IN– channel to AGND is recommended to meet this stability requirement.

What are the power-down modes available on MAX188ACPP?

The MAX188ACPP offers three power-down modes controlled by PD1/PD0 bits in the command byte: full power-down (2µA supply current), fast power-down (30µA), and internal clock mode (1.5mA active). Full power-down disables all circuitry except SHDN detection logic; fast power-down retains reference buffer bias for quicker wake-up. These modes are entered automatically on command and require no external hardware - enabling dynamic power management in battery-operated systems using the MAX188ACPP.

Can MAX188ACPP operate from a single +5V supply?

Yes, the MAX188ACPP operates from a single +5V supply (VDD = +5V, VSS = AGND) in unipolar input mode. In this configuration, analog inputs range from 0V to VREF (e.g., 0V to 4.096V), and the reference buffer remains functional when REFADJ is properly biased. Dual ±5V operation is optional and required only for bipolar input ranges (e.g., –2.048V to +2.048V), where VSS = –5V and VREF = +4.096V.

What serial interface protocols is MAX188ACPP compatible with?

The MAX188ACPP is compatible with SPI, QSPI, MICROWIRE, and TMS320 DSP interfaces via its 4-wire serial bus (CS, SCLK, DIN, DOUT). It requires CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0 for SPI compatibility and supports clock rates up to 2MHz in external mode. The SSTRB output enables direct connection to TMS320-family processors, and the interface operates without external logic - simplifying host MCU integration and reducing PCB complexity for systems using the MAX188ACPP.