Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX355EPE+

Overview

MAX355EPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual 4-channel fault-protected analog multiplexer designed for high-reliability signal routing in industrial and avionics systems. It operates from ±4.5V to ±18V dual supplies (or +4.5V to +36V single supply), delivers 350Ω max on-resistance, guarantees break-before-make switching, and withstands ±40V overvoltage with supplies off. It is used in redundant backup systems where analog channel integrity must survive power loss or field-induced transients.

For engineers reviewing the MAX355EPE+ datasheet, MAX355EPE+ pinout, MAX355EPE+ application, or MAX355EPE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include fault voltage tolerance with supplies unpowered, leakage current at +85°C (<5nA), dual COM outputs (COMA/COMB), TTL/CMOS logic compatibility without pull-ups, and guaranteed 100ns minimum break-before-make interval.

Technical Context

The MAX355EPE+ implements a series N-channel/P-channel/N-channel FET structure that actively clamps output voltage to within 1.5V of supply rails during overvoltage events, limiting fault current to sub-microamp levels. Its digital interface uses fixed 0.8V/2.4V logic thresholds referenced to GND, independent of supply voltage variation.

Each 4-channel section (A and B) has independent address decoding (A0, A1) and shared enable (EN), supporting simultaneous or isolated channel selection. The device maintains full fault protection in demultiplexer mode, with all switches guaranteed OFF when supplies are absent.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX355EPE+ is supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" width), RoHS-compliant and rated for –40°C to +85°C operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG509FTRZ-REEL7, MAX355EPE+ provides double the overvoltage survival margin and tighter leakage control; compared with MAX355EWE+, it offers through-hole mounting for prototyping, serviceability, and high-vibration environments - all without sacrificing fault response time or channel matching.

Availability

MAX355EPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process control, avionics sensor redundancy, and ATE equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX355EPE+ 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, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX354/MAX355 product line was engineered specifically for fault-tolerant signal routing in safety-critical systems where analog integrity must persist through power loss, wiring faults, or ESD events - targeting data acquisition, avionics, and automated test infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the maximum overvoltage the MAX355EPE+ can withstand when its power supplies are disconnected?

The MAX355EPE+ can withstand continuous ±40V overvoltage on any analog input or output pin with V+ and V− at 0V. This is achieved via internal series FET protection that blocks conduction while limiting leakage to sub-microamp levels. This capability is explicitly tested and guaranteed per Absolute Maximum Ratings, making MAX355EPE+ suitable for hot-plug sensor connections and field-wiring scenarios where power sequencing cannot be controlled.

Does the MAX355EPE+ require external pull-up resistors on its address or enable pins?

No, the MAX355EPE+ does not require external pull-up resistors. Its digital inputs (A0, A1, EN) have fixed 0.8V logic-low and 2.4V logic-high thresholds referenced to GND, ensuring direct compatibility with standard TTL and CMOS outputs across the full –40°C to +85°C temperature range. Input current remains below 1µA at all logic states, eliminating current-driven bias requirements.

Can the MAX355EPE+ operate from an asymmetrical supply, such as +15V and –5V?

Yes, the MAX355EPE+ supports asymmetrical supplies. Its analog signal range is determined by the total V+–V− differential, and its fault-clamp behavior adapts to the actual rail voltages. With +15V/–5V, the output is clamped to approximately +13.5V and –6.5V. Digital thresholds remain centered near 1.6V above GND, preserving logic compatibility. This flexibility allows integration into legacy systems with non-standard supply architectures.

How does the MAX355EPE+ behave during power-up or power-down sequences?

The MAX355EPE+ requires no power-up sequencing: all switches remain OFF until valid logic levels are applied to EN and address pins, regardless of V+ or V− ramp order. During power-down, switches turn OFF as supplies collapse, and the series-FET structure automatically engages to block overvoltage. This behavior is intrinsic to the topology and guaranteed across temperature - eliminating risk of signal corruption or latch-up during brownout conditions.

Is the MAX355EPE+ suitable for demultiplexer applications, and does fault protection remain active in that mode?

Yes, the MAX355EPE+ functions fully as a demultiplexer: apply signal to COMA or COMB and route to selected NOxA or NOxB pins. Break-before-make timing and fault protection - including ±40V tolerance with supplies off and output clamping - remain fully active in demux mode. This dual-mode capability is confirmed in the Detailed Description section and distinguishes MAX355EPE+ from earlier fault-protected mux generations that only protect in multiplexer direction.