Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX367EWN

Overview

MAX367EWN from Maxim Integrated is an 8-channel, two-terminal analog signal-line circuit protector IC designed for series insertion in sensitive analog interfaces. It operates with bipolar supplies (±2.25V to ±18V) or unipolar supplies (4.5V to 36V), delivers ≤100Ω on-resistance with power applied, limits fault current via voltage-dependent high-impedance clamping, and protects against ±40V overvoltage transients - used in data-acquisition front-ends and hot-insertion sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MAX367EWN datasheet, MAX367EWN pinout, MAX367EWN application, or MAX367EWN equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated pin functions, confirmed protection behavior under fault and power-off conditions, real-world leakage and resistance values across supply ranges, and direct alternative options for signal-path overvoltage protection in industrial and test equipment.

Technical Context

The MAX367EWN integrates eight independent, symmetrical two-terminal protectors built from enhancement-mode N- and P-channel MOSFET arrays. Each protector self-biases from V+ and V− rails and transitions from low-resistance conduction (≤100Ω) to high-impedance limiting when input/output voltage approaches within ~1.5V of either rail - no control logic or external bias required.

During fault conditions, it clamps output to ~1.3V below V+ or ~2.0V above V− while diverting fault current exclusively between signal terminals - zero current flows into V+ or V− pins. With power off (V+ = V− = 0V), it presents >1000MΩ isolation up to ±40V, fully blocking signal paths without latch-up risk.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX367EWN is housed in an 18-pin Wide SO (Small Outline) package, 0.300-inch body width, with gull-wing leads and standard JEDEC MO-153 footprint. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner; device orientation follows standard SO convention.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog signal-line protection applications.

Compared with MAX367CPN, MAX367EWN supports harsher environments and automated assembly; compared with MAX366ESA, it delivers 2.7× more protected channels per package - reducing BOM count, layout area, and signal-path mismatch in synchronized multi-channel systems.

Availability

MAX367EWN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for process control I/O modules, ATE analog channel protection, and hot-insertion data acquisition boards requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX367EWN 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, automotive, and communications applications - emphasizing robustness, accuracy, and integration density.

The MAX366/MAX367 family was engineered specifically for fault-tolerant analog signal routing in modular systems - enabling safe hot-swap, field-wiring resilience, and zero-maintenance protection without software or external controls.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous fault voltage the MAX367EWN can withstand?

The MAX367EWN withstands up to ±40V differential between its IN and OUT pins - regardless of whether power is applied. This rating holds with V+ = V− = 0V (power-off), making it suitable for protecting circuits during maintenance or hot-swap events where supply sequencing is uncontrolled. The ±40V limit is absolute and does not scale with supply voltage.

Does the MAX367EWN require external components to function as a protector?

No, the MAX367EWN requires only V+ and V− connections to operate - no external resistors, capacitors, or control signals are needed. Its protection behavior is intrinsic to the MOSFET array topology and gate-bias architecture. External components like series resistors or shunt diodes are unnecessary and may degrade performance by adding parasitic capacitance or leakage.

Can the input and output pins of the MAX367EWN be swapped in a design?

Yes - all signal pins (1–3, 4–8, 10–14, 15–17) are fully symmetrical and interchangeable. The labeling "IN" and "OUT" is for functional reference only; the device has no directional signal flow requirement. This allows flexible PCB routing and simplifies layout in bidirectional analog buses or shared-signal architectures.

What happens to the signal path when V+ and V− are unpowered (0V)?

When V+ = V− = 0V, the MAX367EWN enters a high-impedance open state (>1000MΩ) across all eight channels. No current flows between any IN/OUT pair, even with ±40V applied - effectively isolating upstream and downstream circuitry. This behavior prevents back-powering, ground-loop currents, and latch-up in unpowered subsystems.

How does the MAX367EWN compare to TVS diodes for analog line protection?

Unlike TVS diodes, the MAX367EWN provides low-leakage (<1nA), low-on-resistance (≤100Ω), and supply-rail-referenced clamping - avoiding the soft knee, high leakage near breakdown, and signal distortion common with TVS devices. It also isolates during power-off, whereas TVS diodes remain conductive if voltage exceeds their standoff rating.