Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX188DCAP
- Part No.:
- MAX188DCAP
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
- Package:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX188DCAP.pdf
- Description:
- IC ADC 12BIT SAR 20SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,785
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX188DCAP 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 interface. It operates from a single +5V or dual ±5V supply, achieves 133ksps sampling rate, and draws only 1.5mA in active mode-enabling high-accuracy data acquisition in battery-powered instruments and portable data loggers.
For engineers reviewing the MAX188DCAP datasheet, MAX188DCAP pinout, MAX188DCAP application, or MAX188DCAP equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning for key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed alternative parts with documented differences, and supply support tailored for industrial embedded and medical instrumentation design cycles.
Technical Context
The MAX188DCAP uses successive-approximation (SAR) architecture with integrated track/hold and 8-channel analog multiplexer. Its conversion timing is controlled either by an internal clock (up to 10MHz serial readout) or external SCLK (2MHz typical), supporting both internal clock mode (SSTRB active-low pulse) and external clock mode (SSTRB one-cycle strobe).
Analog input configuration is fully software-selectable via 8-bit control byte: channel selection (CH0–CH7), unipolar/bipolar range, single-ended/differential pairing, and power-down mode. Unlike the MAX186, the MAX188 requires an external reference voltage applied at VREF (typically 4.096V), with REFADJ enabling gain adjustment via reference-buffer amplifier (gain = 1.638×).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 12-bit SAR - delivers 1 LSB = 0.024% full-scale accuracy for precision process control and medical sensor digitization |
| Sampling Rate | 133ksps - supports real-time monitoring of fast transients up to 66.5kHz Nyquist bandwidth |
| Input Channels | 8 single-ended or 4 differential - enables multi-sensor acquisition without external MUX, reducing BOM count |
| Supply Current | 1.5mA active / 2µA full power-down - extends battery life in portable instruments; shutdown between conversions cuts average current below 10µA |
| Reference | External 4.096V at VREF - decouples reference stability from internal circuitry; REFADJ allows ±1.5% gain trim for calibration |
| Serial Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE/TMS320-compatible 4-wire - direct connection to microcontrollers without level shifters or glue logic |
| Small-Signal Bandwidth | 4.5MHz - preserves fidelity of high-frequency sensor signals during track phase |
Pinout & Package
MAX188DCAP is housed in a 20-pin SO (Small Outline) package, RoHS-compliant and lead-free (+ suffix). Pin layout matches industry-standard 20-pin SO footprint with 0.3-inch body width and 0.050-inch pitch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CH0–CH7 (Pins 1–8) | Analog input channels | Selectable as 8 single-ended inputs or 4 differential pairs (CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, etc.) via control byte |
| VSS (Pin 9) | Negative supply rail | Accepts 0V (unipolar) or –5V ±5% (bipolar); defines analog input common-mode range (VSS to VDD) |
| SHDN (Pin 10) | Three-level shutdown control | Low = 10µA shutdown; high = internal compensation mode; open = external compensation mode |
| VREF (Pin 11) | Reference voltage terminal | Input for external 4.096V reference; also output of reference buffer (1.638×REFADJ) when enabled |
| REFADJ (Pin 12) | Reference buffer gain adjust | Connect to precision voltage source to set VREF output; tie to VDD to disable buffer |
| AGND (Pin 13) | Analog ground | Return for analog inputs and reference circuitry; must be separated from DGND to minimize noise coupling |
| DGND (Pin 14) | Digital ground | Return for serial interface and logic; isolation from AGND prevents digital switching noise from degrading ADC SNR |
| DOUT (Pin 15) | Serial data output | MSB-first 12-bit result clocked on SCLK falling edge; high-impedance when CS is high |
| SSTRB (Pin 16) | Serial strobe output | Signals conversion start/end: low during conversion (internal clock) or one-cycle pulse before MSB (external clock) |
| DIN (Pin 17) | Serial data input | Receives 8-bit control byte on SCLK rising edge; first "1" bit after CS fall defines MSB |
| CS (Pin 18) | Chip select | Active-low enable for serial interface; disables DOUT/SSTRB outputs when high |
| SCLK (Pin 19) | Serial clock input | Drives data transfer and (in external mode) conversion timing; 40–60% duty cycle required |
| VDD (Pin 20) | Positive supply | +5V ±5%; powers analog and digital sections; PSR = ±0.06mV/V ensures stable operation under supply ripple |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Software-configurable input modes | Single control byte selects unipolar/bipolar, single-ended/differential, channel, and power mode-eliminating hardware jumpers or configuration resistors |
| Ultra-low power consumption | 2µA full shutdown current enables energy harvesting and coin-cell operation; quick wake-up (<1µs) supports per-conversion power cycling |
| Integrated track/hold with 1.5µs acquisition | Removes need for external THA; acquisition time scales with source impedance (tAZ = 9 × (RS + 5kΩ) × 16pF), supporting sensors up to 5kΩ output impedance |
| Reference buffer with adjustable gain | 1.638× gain at REFADJ allows precise scaling of external references; internal compensation (SHDN high) or external 4.7µF bypass (SHDN open) optimizes stability |
| High dynamic performance | 70dB SINAD and 80dB SFDR at 10kHz input enable accurate measurement of low-level signals in noisy industrial environments |
Applications
| Portable Data Logging | Medical Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered environmental sensor node recording temperature, humidity, and pressure over weeks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary ADC digitizing multiple analog sensor outputs with configurable input ranges and low quiescent current. Use Value: 1.5mA active current and 2µA shutdown extend CR2032 battery life beyond 12 months; 8-channel integration reduces PCB area vs. discrete ADC solutions. |
Use Scenario: Portable ECG monitor acquiring biopotential signals from 3–5 leads with high common-mode rejection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision front-end ADC performing pseudo-differential acquisition with software-selectable bipolar range (±2.048V). Use Value: 70dB SINAD and <50ps aperture jitter preserve signal integrity; isolated AGND/DGND pins minimize digital noise coupling into sensitive analog paths. |
| Industrial Process Control | Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) |
Use Scenario: PLC I/O module measuring 4–20mA current loops and thermocouple outputs across 8 field channels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Multi-channel data acquisition subsystem with programmable gain and offset correction via REFADJ and software calibration. Use Value: ±0.75LSB relative accuracy and ±3.0LSB gain error ensure traceable measurements compliant with IEC 61000-4-5 surge immunity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Benchtop ATE fixture validating sensor response across temperature and voltage sweeps using synchronized stimulus and capture. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed digitizer triggered by external SSTRB strobe to align sampling with stimulus edges. Use Value: 133ksps rate and deterministic 6µs conversion time (external clock) enable tight timing correlation; SPI compatibility simplifies FPGA-based controller integration. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX186DCAP | Includes internal 4.096V reference; no external REFADJ or VREF connection required; identical pinout and timing | Better suited for space-constrained designs where reference sourcing adds complexity; less flexible gain adjustment | Select MAX186DCAP when eliminating external reference components is prioritized over fine gain trimming capability |
| ADS7822U | 12-bit, 200ksps, SPI-only interface; no bipolar mode; 2.7–5.25V supply; built-in reference; smaller 8-pin SOIC package | Targeted at low-voltage, single-supply systems; lacks differential input support and software-configurable bipolar range | Choose ADS7822U for cost-sensitive, single-ended, 3.3V-only applications where 133ksps and bipolar operation are not required |
Compared with MAX186DCAP, MAX188DCAP trades integrated reference simplicity for external reference flexibility and gain trim; versus ADS7822U, it offers broader input configuration, bipolar support, and higher noise immunity at the cost of larger package and dual-supply optionality.
Availability
MAX188DCAP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, medical instrumentation, and industrial process control requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX188DCAP 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, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.
The MAX186/MAX188 product line delivers low-power, high-accuracy serial ADCs optimized for battery-operated and noise-sensitive data acquisition systems where software configurability and minimal external components are critical.
FAQ
What is the reference voltage requirement for MAX188DCAP?
The MAX188DCAP requires an external reference voltage applied to the VREF pin, typically 4.096V. Unlike the MAX186, it does not include an internal reference. The REFADJ pin allows gain adjustment of the reference buffer (1.638×), enabling precise scaling of non-standard reference sources. MAX188DCAP operation is invalid without a valid external reference connected to VREF.
Does MAX188DCAP support differential input mode?
Yes, MAX188DCAP supports pseudo-differential input mode via software configuration. Setting SGL/DIF = 0 in the control byte selects differential pairs: CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3, CH4/CH5, and CH6/CH7. The device samples the voltage difference while maintaining IN− stability within ±0.5LSB relative to AGND-achieved using a 0.1µF capacitor from the selected IN− channel to AGND.
What are the power-down modes available on MAX188DCAP?
MAX188DCAP offers three power-down states controlled by PD1/PD0 bits in the control byte: full power-down (2µA), fast power-down (30µA), and internal/external clock mode (1.5mA active). The SHDN pin provides hardware override: pulling low forces full shutdown (≤10µA), independent of serial commands. This enables hybrid power management combining software scheduling and hardware emergency cutoff.
Can MAX188DCAP operate from a single 3.3V supply?
No, MAX188DCAP is specified only for +5V ±5% (VDD) with optional –5V ±5% (VSS) for bipolar operation. Its absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics-including reference buffer gain, input voltage range, and digital interface thresholds-are validated exclusively at 5V. Operation at 3.3V violates datasheet conditions and risks incorrect conversion, timing failure, or latch-up.
How does the SSTRB pin function in internal vs. external clock mode for MAX188DCAP?
In internal clock mode, SSTRB goes low at conversion start and high upon completion (≤10µs pulse width), signaling readiness to read data. In external clock mode, SSTRB pulses high for exactly one SCLK period before the MSB appears on DOUT. Both modes use SSTRB to synchronize host controller timing-eliminating need for fixed delay loops-and maintain high-impedance state when CS is high.
MAX188DCAP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Number of Bits:
- 12
- Sampling Rate (Per Second):
- 133k
- Number of Inputs:
- 4, 8
- Input Type:
- Differential, Single Ended
- Data Interface:
- SPI
- Configuration:
- MUX-S/H-ADC
- Ratio - S/H:ADC:
- 1:1
- Number of A/D Converters:
- 1
- Architecture:
- SAR
- Reference Type:
- External
- Voltage - Supply, Analog:
- ±5V, 5V
- Voltage - Supply, Digital:
- ±5V, 5V
- Features:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-SSOP
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
MAX188DCAP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX188DCAP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX188DCAP 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 MAX188DCAP reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX188DCAP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX188DCAP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX188DCAP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX188DCAP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX188DCAP?
MAX188DCAP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX188DCAP 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 MAX188DCAP?
For technical support, including MAX188DCAP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX188DCAP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX188DCAP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX188DCAP 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 MAX188DCAP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX188DCAP?
All MAX188DCAP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX188DCAP, 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 MAX188DCAP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX188DCAP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX188DCAP 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…

