Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX378CPE

Overview

MAX378CPE from Maxim Integrated is an 8-channel single-ended analog multiplexer with fault-protected series N/P/N FET architecture, ±60V continuous input tolerance with ±15V supplies, <2mW power dissipation, and break-before-make switching. It serves as a high-reliability signal routing device in industrial data acquisition front ends where sensor overvoltage and power-loss scenarios are common.

For engineers reviewing the MAX378CPE datasheet, MAX378CPE pinout, MAX378CPE application, or MAX378CPE equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated package mapping (16-pin plastic DIP), confirmed fault-protection behavior under power-off conditions, and real-world design implications for leakage-limited sensor interfacing and ±15V rail operation.

Technical Context

The MAX378CPE implements a three-FET series structure (N–P–N) per channel to enforce nanoamp-level input leakage (<100nA) during ±75V overvoltage events with supplies off, and limits fault current to sub-microamp levels even at ±60V with ±15V rails applied. Its digital interface operates with TTL/CMOS-compatible thresholds (0.8V/2.4V) without pull-ups.

Break-before-make timing is guaranteed at 25–200ns, and ON-resistance remains stable across ±10V analog inputs (2.0kΩ typ at +25°C). The device supports demultiplexer operation with full fault protection retained, and its isolation exceeds 64dB at 1MHz when all channels are driven.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX378CPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.300-inch width, compliant with JEDEC MS-001. Pin 1 is A2 (MSB address), pin 16 is V+, and pin 8 is GND. The substrate may float or connect to V+ per JI CMOS process requirements.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG508A and MAX358CPE, the MAX378CPE delivers superior fault resilience (±75V with supplies off), lower ON-resistance (2.0kΩ vs. 3.5kΩ/400Ω), and guaranteed break-before-make timing - making it the optimal choice for safety-critical industrial and aerospace DAQ systems.

Availability

MAX378CPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data acquisition systems, avionics test equipment, and process control systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (0°C to +70°C).

Supply support for MAX378CPE 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 MAX378CPE belongs to Maxim's fault-protected analog multiplexer product line, engineered specifically for robust signal routing in environments where sensor overvoltage, power loss, and ESD events threaten system uptime and sensor integrity.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous input voltage the MAX378CPE can withstand with its power supplies turned off?

The MAX378CPE can withstand ±75V continuous input voltage with V+ and V- supplies disconnected. Under this condition, all channels turn OFF and input leakage remains ≤100nA, protecting both upstream sensors and downstream circuitry. This specification is explicitly guaranteed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table and confirmed in Figures 4 and 5 of the datasheet.

Does the MAX378CPE support demultiplexer operation, and how does fault protection behave in that mode?

Yes, the MAX378CPE supports demultiplexer operation with the OUT pin driven as input and IN1–IN8 used as outputs. Fault protection remains fully active: ±75V tolerance and nanoamp leakage apply identically in reverse signal flow. The series N–P–N structure enforces the same blocking behavior regardless of signal direction, unlike first-generation fault-protected muxes which lack reverse-mode protection.

What is the guaranteed break-before-make delay for the MAX378CPE, and why is it critical in multi-sensor systems?

The MAX378CPE guarantees a break-before-make delay of 25–200ns, as measured in Figure 2 of the datasheet. This prevents simultaneous conduction between two input channels during address transitions - eliminating risk of input-to-input short circuits that could damage sensors (e.g., forcing 4–20mA loop current into a thermocouple) or corrupt measurements in high-impedance DAQ paths.

How does the ON-resistance of the MAX378CPE vary with analog input voltage, and what impact does this have on measurement accuracy?

MAX378CPE ON-resistance varies from ~2.0kΩ at ±10V input to infinity above +13.5V or below –12V (where FETs turn OFF). At ±10V, RDS(ON) match across channels is ≤3%, minimizing gain mismatch errors. In a typical DAQ system with 2nA output leakage and 30pA op-amp bias, this yields ≤18µV total error - sufficient for direct thermocouple interfacing without preamplification.

Can the MAX378CPE operate from a single +12V supply, and what modifications are required?

Yes, the MAX378CPE supports single-supply operation from +9V to +22V. To do so, connect V- to GND, tie the substrate to V+, and ensure digital logic levels remain referenced to GND. Output swing becomes limited to ~+10.5V (V+ –1.5V) and ~0V (V– +0V), and RDS(ON) increases slightly versus ±15V operation - verified in Typical Operating Characteristics curves for ±5V/±10V rails.