Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX196AENI

Overview

The MAX196AENI from Maxim Integrated is a multirange, 12-bit data-acquisition system (DAS) with six software-programmable analog input channels, single +5V supply operation, ±10V input range capability, and 100ksps throughput rate. It integrates a 5MHz track/hold, internal 4.096V reference, fault-protected multiplexer, and 12-bit parallel interface - enabling direct connection to industrial sensor interfaces including ±12V, ±15V, and 4–20mA transmitters.

For engineers reviewing the MAX196AENI datasheet, MAX196AENI pinout, MAX196AENI application, or MAX196AENI equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world design meaning for key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed alternative parts, and supply support details specific to the MAX196AENI variant.

Technical Context

The MAX196AENI implements successive-approximation ADC architecture with integrated track/hold, supporting both internal (6-clock-cycle) and external acquisition control modes. Its input multiplexer is fault-protected to ±16.5V, and conversion timing is synchronized to either internal clock (1.56MHz typical with 100pF CLK-to-GND capacitor) or external clock (100kHz–2.0MHz).

It supports four software-selectable input ranges: ±10V, ±5V, 0V to +10V, and 0V to +5V. Output data format is twos-complement in bipolar mode and straight binary in unipolar mode, delivered via 12-bit three-state parallel bus compatible with TTL/CMOS microprocessors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX196AENI is housed in a 28-pin narrow plastic DIP package (0°C to +70°C operating range), with through-hole mounting and industry-standard footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multirange, 12-bit DAS applications.

Compared with MAX196BCNI and ADS7816U, the MAX196AENI uniquely delivers guaranteed ±1/2 LSB INL, ±10V bipolar input support, integrated 4.096V reference, and ±16.5V fault tolerance - making it irreplaceable in precision industrial and medical DAS where range flexibility and absolute accuracy are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX196AENI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, automated test equipment, medical instrumentation, and telecom line card monitoring requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX196AENI 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.

The MAX196AENI belongs to Maxim's multirange data-acquisition system product line, engineered specifically for single-supply, high-accuracy digitization of industrial sensor signals with integrated protection and flexible range programming.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX196AENI?

The MAX196AENI is rated for operation from 0°C to +70°C. This commercial-grade temperature specification is explicitly defined in Maxim's ordering information for the "A" grade suffix and matches the ENI package variant. It is distinct from the "E" grade (–40°C to +85°C) and "M" grade (–55°C to +125°C) versions. System thermal design must ensure junction temperature remains within this range during continuous 100ksps operation.

Does the MAX196AENI include an internal voltage reference?

Yes, the MAX196AENI includes a factory-trimmed internal bandgap reference that feeds a precision buffer to deliver a nominal 4.096V output at the REF pin. This reference is adjustable by ±1.5% via the REFADJ pin and is fully functional in STBYPD power-down mode. When used, it eliminates the need for an external reference IC and associated decoupling, directly enabling 1mV/LSB scaling in the ±10V range.

How many analog input channels does the MAX196AENI support?

The MAX196AENI supports six independent analog input channels (CH0 through CH5), each configurable via software control byte to accept ±10V, ±5V, 0V to +10V, or 0V to +5V input ranges. Channel selection is performed using address bits A2–A0 in the control byte, and the fault-protected multiplexer ensures that overvoltage on any unselected channel does not corrupt the conversion result on the active channel.

What is the maximum sampling rate of the MAX196AENI?

The MAX196AENI achieves a maximum throughput rate of 100ksps (100,000 samples per second) when operated with a 2.0MHz external clock or its internal clock configured for 1.56MHz. This rate assumes 6-clock acquisition plus 12-clock conversion cycles per sample. At lower clock frequencies, throughput scales linearly - e.g., 500kHz clock yields ~50ksps - and the device maintains specified AC performance down to 50kHz.

Can the MAX196AENI operate with an external reference voltage?

Yes, the MAX196AENI supports external reference operation. An external reference can be applied directly to the REF pin (with REFADJ tied to VDD to disable the internal buffer) or to the REFADJ pin (where the internal buffer provides 1.6384× gain to generate 4.096V at REF). External references must provide ≤10Ω output impedance and sustain 400µA DC load; a 4.7µF capacitor at REF is mandatory for stability and noise reduction.