Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX189AEPA

Overview

MAX189AEPA from Maxim Integrated is a 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) operating from a single +5V supply, accepting 0–5V unipolar analog input with internal track/hold and 75ksps throughput. It requires an external reference voltage (2.5V to VDD), features SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible 3-wire serial interface, and delivers ±½ LSB integral nonlinearity at 0°C to +70°C. It is used in isolated data acquisition systems where low power and compact size are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX189AEPA datasheet, MAX189AEPA pinout, MAX189AEPA application, or MAX189AEPA equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning for key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed alternative parts with functional distinctions, and supply-chain support details specific to the MAX189AEPA 8-pin PDIP package.

Technical Context

The MAX189AEPA implements a 12-bit SAR architecture with integrated track/hold circuitry requiring no external hold capacitor, achieving full-scale conversion in 8.5µs with 1.5µs acquisition time. Its serial interface uses CS-active-low initiation, SCLK-synchronized DOUT output (MSB-first, 13-cycle frame), and supports clock rates up to 5MHz without duty-cycle constraints beyond 100ns minimum high/low pulse width.

It operates exclusively with an external reference applied to the REF pin (2.5V to VDD), rejecting supply variations by ≤0.5mV over temperature, and draws only 1.0–2.0mA during operation or ≤10µA in shutdown-enabled via SHDN pin pulled low. The device is specified for 0°C to +70°C ambient and features 16pF analog input capacitance with built-in ESD protection diodes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX189AEPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is VDD; pins 2–8 follow standard PDIP numbering with GND at pin 5, and no internal connections at pins not listed in the functional pin table below.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADS7816U and AD7893AN-10, the MAX189AEPA uniquely guarantees ±½ LSB integral nonlinearity across 0°C to +70°C while maintaining 75ksps throughput and 8-pin PDIP compatibility-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, temperature-stable, through-hole production designs.

Availability

MAX189AEPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data logging, isolated data acquisition, and high-accuracy process control requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX189AEPA 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 industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX187/MAX189 family was engineered for low-power, space-constrained data acquisition-delivering 12-bit accuracy with minimal external components and single-supply operation.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage requirement for MAX189AEPA?

The MAX189AEPA requires an external reference voltage applied to the REF pin, ranging from +2.5V to VDD (4.75–5.25V). Unlike the MAX187, it has no internal reference. For optimal performance, use a precision reference such as the REF5025 with ≤10Ω output impedance and bypass REF with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor. The MAX189AEPA draws 200–350µA from the reference during conversion.

Does MAX189AEPA support SPI interface timing?

Yes, the MAX189AEPA supports SPI-compatible timing with CPOL = 0 and CPHA = 0. A falling edge on CS initiates conversion; DOUT goes low during conversion and rises to signal end-of-conversion (EOC). Data is clocked out MSB-first on SCLK falling edges, requiring exactly 13 clock cycles for the full 12-bit result plus leading EOC bit. Timing complies with tCH/tCL ≥100ns and tCS ≥500ns.

What is the maximum analog input frequency supported by MAX189AEPA?

The MAX189AEPA has a 4.5MHz small-signal input bandwidth and is rated for 75ksps throughput, permitting accurate digitization of sinusoidal inputs up to 37.5kHz (Nyquist limit). For higher-frequency signals, undersampling techniques may be applied with appropriate anti-alias filtering. Its 8V/µs slew rate and 1.5µs acquisition time support fast transient capture when source impedance is ≤5kΩ.

How does shutdown mode operate on MAX189AEPA?

Shutdown mode on MAX189AEPA is activated by pulling the SHDN pin low, reducing supply current to ≤10µA. The device wakes up in <1µs (no tWAKE delay, unlike MAX187) since it relies on an external reference that remains powered. SHDN left floating or pulled high places the device in normal operation. No configuration registers or software commands are needed-shutdown is purely hardware-controlled.

What package type is MAX189AEPA supplied in?

The MAX189AEPA is supplied in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole leads. This package supports manual soldering, breadboard prototyping, and legacy PCB assembly. It is distinct from the 16-pin wide SO option offered for other variants in the MAX187/MAX189 family.