Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX338ESE

Overview

MAX338ESE from Maxim Integrated is an 8-channel single-ended CMOS analog multiplexer designed to route one of eight bidirectional analog inputs (NO1–NO8) to a common output (COM) under 3-bit binary address control (A0–A2). It features 400Ω max on-resistance, <20pA NO-off leakage at +25°C, and 1.5pC typical charge injection-enabling precision signal routing in data-acquisition systems operating from ±4.5V to ±20V dual supplies or +4.5V to +30V single supply.

For engineers reviewing the MAX338ESE datasheet, MAX338ESE pinout, MAX338ESE application, or MAX338ESE equivalent, key selection criteria include rail-to-rail analog signal handling (±15V), TTL/CMOS-compatible enable and address inputs, guaranteed low leakage across -40°C to +85°C, and pin-compatibility with industry-standard DG508A for drop-in upgrades in test equipment and military radios.

Technical Context

The MAX338ESE implements a monolithic silicon-gate CMOS switch architecture with integrated decode logic, supporting both multiplexing and demultiplexing modes. Its bidirectional analog path operates with matched on-resistance (<10Ω channel-to-channel variation) and break-before-make switching (10–140ns interval) to prevent signal shorting during channel transitions.

All digital inputs-including EN, A0, A1, and A2-are TTL-compatible over full temperature range and supply voltage (±4.5V to ±18V), while internal ESD protection exceeds 2000V per Method 3015.7. The device is fabricated using Maxim's 44V process, enabling robust operation with unbalanced supplies (e.g., +24V/–5V) and absolute maximum ratings up to V+ = 44V referenced to GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX338ESE is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package with gull-wing leads, RoHS-compliant and lead-free (+ suffix). Pin 1 is V−, pin 16 is EN, and the exposed pad is absent (TQFN-EP variant only).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog multiplexer applications.

Compared with MAX328ESE+ and DG508AEN+, the MAX338ESE delivers optimal trade-off between leakage, speed, and ruggedness for industrial and defense applications - offering 4× lower leakage than DG508AEN+ and 2.2× lower R_ON than MAX328ESE+, while maintaining full -40°C to +85°C qualification and >2000V ESD protection.

Availability

MAX338ESE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for data-acquisition systems, test equipment, and military radio designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX338ESE 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 fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX338 series belongs to Maxim's precision analog switch product line, engineered for low-leakage, low-charge-injection signal routing in demanding measurement and control applications where accuracy and reliability are critical.

FAQ

What supply configurations does the MAX338ESE support?

The MAX338ESE operates from dual supplies of ±4.5V to ±20V or a single supply of +4.5V to +30V. When using single supply, V− must be connected to GND. Unbalanced supplies (e.g., +24V/–5V) are also supported, provided the total voltage difference does not exceed 44V. This flexibility allows integration into diverse power architectures without external level-shifting circuitry. The MAX338ESE maintains full specification compliance across all supported supply modes.

Is the MAX338ESE pin-compatible with the DG508A?

Yes, the MAX338ESE is a pin-compatible upgrade for the DG508A, sharing identical 16-pin narrow SO footprint and pin assignments. It retains the same address (A0–A2), enable (EN), analog I/O (NO1–NO8, COM), and supply (V+, V−, GND) connections. Engineers can replace DG508A with MAX338ESE in existing layouts without PCB modification, gaining improved leakage, charge injection, and ESD performance. The MAX338ESE datasheet explicitly confirms this plug-in compatibility.

What is the maximum analog signal voltage the MAX338ESE can handle?

The MAX338ESE supports analog signals from V− to V+ - i.e., rail-to-rail operation. With ±15V supplies, it handles ±15V signals; with +12V/0V single supply, it handles 0–12V. Absolute maximum ratings allow V+ up to +44V relative to GND and V− down to –0.3V, but functional analog range remains bounded by the applied supply rails. Exceeding V+ or V− on NO or COM pins triggers internal clamping diodes, limiting signal excursion to ~0.7V beyond rails - a design consideration for overvoltage-tolerant applications.

How does the MAX338ESE perform over temperature?

The MAX338ESE is specified for operation from –40°C to +85°C. Over this range, NO-off leakage increases to ≤1.25nA, on-resistance rises to ≤500Ω, and transition time extends to ≤650ns at +125°C (beyond rated range). All parameters are production-tested at hot temperature and correlated to +25°C values. The device's 44V silicon-gate process ensures stable performance across thermal extremes, making it suitable for under-hood automotive modules and outdoor military hardware where ambient temperatures fluctuate widely. The MAX338ESE maintains guaranteed specs throughout its full rated temperature range.

Can the MAX338ESE be used in demultiplexer mode?

Yes, the MAX338ESE functions bidirectionally and supports demultiplexer operation: a single analog input applied to COM can be routed to any of the eight NOx terminals under address control. This capability is inherent to its CMOS transmission-gate architecture and confirmed in the functional diagram and truth table. In demux mode, the same leakage, on-resistance, and charge injection specifications apply - enabling flexible signal distribution in programmable gain amplifiers, sensor excitation circuits, and multi-channel DAC output routing. The MAX338ESE requires no configuration change to operate as a demux.