Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX253EUA+
- Part No.:
- MAX253EUA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Power Management - Specialized
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX253EUA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR TRANSFORMER 1W 8UMAX
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:294
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Product details
Overview
MAX253EUA+ from Maxim Integrated is a monolithic oscillator/power-driver IC designed to generate isolated DC power for RS-485 and RS-232 data interfaces via center-tapped transformer drive. It operates from a single 3.3V or 5V supply, delivers up to 1W output power, features pin-selectable 200kHz/350kHz switching frequency, and includes shutdown control with 0.4µA quiescent current. It is used in industrial isolated communication nodes requiring galvanic separation between controller and bus sides.
For engineers reviewing the MAX253EUA+ datasheet, MAX253EUA+ pinout, MAX253EUA+ application, or MAX253EUA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-frequency oscillator architecture, break-before-make switch timing, low-power shutdown capability, and µMAX-8 package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts for isolated interface designs.
Technical Context
The MAX253EUA+ integrates a CMOS RC oscillator followed by a toggle flip-flop to produce two complementary 50% duty-cycle square waves at half the oscillator frequency-200kHz or 350kHz depending on FS pin state. Internal propagation delays ensure break-before-make switching between D1 and D2 outputs to prevent shoot-through during transformer primary drive.
It uses two N-channel open-drain power switches (D1/D2) referenced to separate ground pins (GND1/GND2), enabling independent grounding of primary and secondary isolation domains. The SD pin disables both oscillator and switches, reducing supply current to 0.4µA while retaining fast wake-up response.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 3.3V or 5V ±10%; supports direct connection to common logic rails without external regulation |
| Switch Frequency | 200kHz (FS = GND) or 350kHz (FS = VCC); higher frequency reduces transformer size and output ripple |
| Output Switch Current | 200mA average per switch; enables up to ~1W isolated power delivery with 5V input |
| Shutdown Current | 0.4µA; allows ultra-low-power sleep mode in battery-backed or energy-sensitive systems |
| On-Resistance | 1.5Ω typical (25°C); minimizes conduction loss and thermal rise in transformer primary drive path |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C; qualified for industrial environments including factory automation and process control |
| Package | 8-pin µMAX (U8+1); 3mm × 3mm footprint with 0.65mm pitch, optimized for space-constrained isolated interface modules |
Pinout & Package
The MAX253EUA+ is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.65mm pitch), RoHS-compliant and lead(Pb)-free, with exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Pin 5 is not connected (N.C.). GND1 and GND2 must both be tied to system ground to ensure proper internal reference and switching behavior.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| D1 | Open-drain N-channel switch output 1 | Drives one side of center-tapped transformer primary; requires external flyback diode and load return path |
| D2 | Open-drain N-channel switch output 2 | Drives opposite side of center-tapped transformer primary; complements D1 with precise break-before-make timing |
| FS | Frequency select input | Logic-low selects 200kHz (lower supply current); open or high selects 350kHz (reduced transformer size) |
| GND1 | Ground reference 1 | Primary-side ground for oscillator and control circuitry; must connect to same ground as VCC |
| GND2 | Ground reference 2 | Secondary-side ground reference for isolation barrier integrity; tied to GND1 externally |
| VCC | Positive supply input | 3.3V or 5V DC input; powers internal oscillator and gate drivers; bypassed with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor |
| SD | Shutdown enable input | Active-high control; drives internal oscillator and switches into ultra-low-power state when high |
| N.C. | No internal connection | Pin 5 is unconnected; must remain floating or grounded per layout best practice-no signal routing |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Pin-selectable switching frequency | 200kHz or 350kHz via FS pin; enables trade-off between transformer size, efficiency, and EMI profile |
| Break-before-make switch timing | Guaranteed non-overlapping D1/D2 drive; prevents transformer saturation and shoot-through current spikes |
| Ultra-low shutdown current | 0.4µA total supply current in shutdown; critical for intermittent-operation systems like remote sensors |
| Independent ground references | GND1 and GND2 support clean isolation barrier implementation without shared ground noise coupling |
| Single-supply operation | Operates directly from 3.3V or 5V logic rails; eliminates need for dedicated bias supplies in compact designs |
Applications
| Industrial RS-485 Node | Isolated RS-232 Transceiver Bank |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Factory-floor PLC I/O module communicating over noisy 1200m RS-485 bus with ±2kV ESD and 1kV surge immunity requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transformer driver generating isolated 5V power for MAX485 transceiver and optocoupler side, enabling full galvanic separation. Use Value: Enables 1800VRMS isolation rating and eliminates ground loop errors in multi-node distributed control systems. | Use Scenario: Medical diagnostic device requiring isolated RS-232 links to multiple peripherals (printer, barcode scanner, PC) while meeting IEC 60601 creepage/clearance standards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Power source for 10× PC417 optocouplers and MAX232-level interface ICs, delivering up to 1W at 5V from single 5V rail. Use Value: Supports simultaneous isolation of multiple serial channels without discrete DC/DC converters, reducing BOM count and board area. |
| Process Control 4–20mA Loop | Isolated ADC Signal Conditioning |
Use Scenario: Analog sensor transmitter in hazardous area where field-side 4–20mA loop must be isolated from control-room 24V supply and microcontroller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolated power generator for IL300 linear optocoupler feedback stage and MAX480 current-output amplifier on field side. Use Value: Provides stable, low-noise isolated 5V for precision analog signal conditioning without magnetic interference from switching node. | Use Scenario: High-resolution temperature monitoring system using MAX176 ADC in harsh EMI environment near motor drives or inverters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Supplies isolated ±12V and +5V rails for MAX176 ADC and associated signal chain (multiplexer, op-amps) across isolation barrier. Use Value: Enables >16-bit effective resolution by eliminating ground-referenced noise coupling into sensitive analog front-end. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transformer driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADM2587E | Integrated isolated RS-485 transceiver with built-in DC/DC converter; no external transformer required. | Replaces entire MAX253 + optocoupler + regulator + transceiver solution; fixed 5V iso-output only. | Select when board space is critical and standard 5V isolated RS-485 interface suffices; not suitable for custom voltage or multi-rail generation. |
| ISO1540 | I²C isolator with integrated 5V DC/DC; 1W max output, but limited to I²C signaling-not transformer-driven. | Designed for digital isolator applications only; lacks D1/D2 push-pull drive capability and frequency select. | Choose only for I²C isolation with auxiliary power; cannot substitute for transformer-based isolated power generation in RS-485/RS-232 designs. |
Compared with ADM2587E and ISO1540, the MAX253EUA+ offers design flexibility for custom isolated voltages (±5V, ±12V, 3.3V, 24V), supports multi-rail generation, and enables optimization of transformer size/frequency trade-offs-making it preferred for non-standard or multi-output isolated power needs.
Availability
MAX253EUA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial communications, medical diagnostics, and process control systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX253EUA+ 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, automotive, and communications markets.
The MAX253 belongs to Maxim's isolated interface power solutions product line, engineered specifically to simplify robust, high-voltage-isolated RS-485/RS-232 implementations without requiring complex DC/DC converter design.
FAQ
What is the function of the FS pin on the MAX253EUA+?
The FS (Frequency Select) pin on the MAX253EUA+ determines the oscillator frequency: logic-low (≤0.8V) sets 200kHz, while open or logic-high (≥2.4V) selects 350kHz. This allows designers to optimize transformer size, efficiency, and EMI performance. The pin includes an internal weak pull-up, so leaving it unconnected defaults to 350kHz operation. The MAX253EUA+ datasheet specifies guaranteed minimum frequencies of 150kHz (FS low) and 250kHz (FS high).
Can the MAX253EUA+ operate from a 3.3V supply?
Yes, the MAX253EUA+ is fully specified for 3.3V ±10% operation, delivering up to 600mW of isolated power in this configuration. Figure 7 of the MAX253EUA+ datasheet shows a 3.3V-to-isolated-5V application circuit using diode-boosted VCC. Supply current remains within specification (typ. 0.45mA at 3.3V), and all timing, shutdown, and switching parameters retain their rated performance across temperature.
What is the purpose of having separate GND1 and GND2 pins on the MAX253EUA+?
GND1 serves as the reference for the internal oscillator and control circuitry, tied to the primary-side ground. GND2 provides a dedicated ground reference for the output switches (D1/D2), supporting clean isolation barrier implementation. Though both pins must be connected to system ground externally, their separation prevents internal ground bounce from coupling into the transformer drive path-critical for maintaining signal integrity and minimizing radiated emissions in the MAX253EUA+ design.
Does the MAX253EUA+ require external components to function?
Yes, the MAX253EUA+ requires external components for basic operation: a center-tapped transformer, two Schottky rectifier diodes (e.g., 1N5817), input bypass capacitor (0.1µF ceramic), and output filter capacitor (22µF low-ESR tantalum). The FS and SD pins may be pulled high/low with resistors or driven actively. No external timing components are needed-the oscillator is fully integrated. These requirements are detailed in Figures 6 and 7 of the MAX253EUA+ datasheet.
What is the maximum isolated output power achievable with the MAX253EUA+?
The MAX253EUA+ supports up to 1W of isolated output power when supplied from 5V, delivering ~200mA at 5V under typical conditions (Figure 6). With a 3.3V supply, maximum output is ~600mW (~100mA at 5V), as shown in Figure 7. Output power depends on transformer turns ratio, rectifier losses, and load regulation-actual delivered power must be verified per application using the MAX253EUA+'s Output Voltage vs. Load Current curves.
MAX253EUA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Applications:
- Transformer Driver
- Current - Supply:
- 450µA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3.3V, 5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-uMAX/uSOP
MAX253EUA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX253EUA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX253EUA+ 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 MAX253EUA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX253EUA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX253EUA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX253EUA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX253EUA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX253EUA+?
MAX253EUA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX253EUA+ 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 MAX253EUA+?
For technical support, including MAX253EUA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX253EUA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX253EUA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX253EUA+ 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 MAX253EUA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX253EUA+?
All MAX253EUA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX253EUA+, 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 MAX253EUA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX253EUA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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