Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX378EPE

Overview

The MAX378EPE from Maxim Integrated is an 8-channel single-ended analog multiplexer with fault-protected series N/P/N FET architecture, designed for high-voltage signal routing in industrial and avionics test systems. It operates from ±4.5V to ±18V supplies, delivers <2mW power dissipation, guarantees break-before-make switching, and withstands ±60V continuous analog input with power applied and ±75V with supplies off - enabling robust data acquisition front ends where sensor overvoltage or unpowered operation is a risk.

For engineers reviewing the MAX378EPE datasheet, MAX378EPE pinout, MAX378EPE application, or MAX378EPE equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated fault-protection behavior, confirmed DIP-16 package mapping, and real-world design context for high-reliability analog signal selection under ±75V fault conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX378EPE implements a three-FET series structure (N–P–N) per channel that actively blocks fault currents instead of limiting them - reducing leakage to sub-100nA under ±75V input with V+/V− off, and maintaining <20nA OFF-state leakage at ±60V with ±15V supplies. Its digital interface uses fixed 0.8V/2.4V TTL-compatible thresholds independent of supply voltage, ensuring reliable control across ±5V to ±18V operation.

Unlike first-generation fault-protected muxes, the MAX378EPE sustains continuous ±60V input without thermal derating, avoids latchup under overvoltage, and enforces automatic channel shutdown when supplies are removed - eliminating backfeed into sensors and preventing output overdrive of downstream S/H or ADC stages.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX378EPE is supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.300-inch width, compliant with JEDEC MS-001. Pin 1 is bottom-left corner when notch faces up; substrate may float or connect to V+ per JI CMOS layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG508A and MAX398EPE, the MAX378EPE uniquely delivers ±75V fault survival with supplies off and nanoamp leakage under all fault conditions - making it the only option for unattended, high-reliability sensor multiplexing in avionics or remote industrial sites.

Availability

MAX378EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for data acquisition systems, industrial process control, avionics test equipment, and cross-system signal routing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX378EPE 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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX378EPE belongs to Maxim's fault-protected analog multiplexer product line, engineered specifically for signal integrity in harsh environments where sensor overvoltage, unpowered operation, and long-term reliability are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous analog input voltage the MAX378EPE supports with power supplies active?

The MAX378EPE supports ±60V continuous analog input voltage when powered by ±15V supplies. This rating is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) and reflects its robust series N–P–N FET protection structure - not a transient or peak value. Operation beyond ±60V requires verification against absolute maximum ratings and may impact long-term reliability.

Does the MAX378EPE require external pull-up resistors on its address or enable pins?

No, the MAX378EPE does not require external pull-up resistors. Its digital inputs (A0, A1, A2, EN) have fixed TTL-compatible thresholds (0.8V low, 2.4V high) and draw only nanoamp-level leakage current. This allows direct interfacing with microcontroller GPIOs, FPGA outputs, or logic gates without additional biasing components - simplifying PCB layout and reducing BOM count.

Can the MAX378EPE be used as a demultiplexer, and does fault protection apply in that mode?

Yes, the MAX378EPE functions as a demultiplexer when the OUT pin serves as the common input and IN1–IN8 act as outputs. Fault protection remains fully active in this configuration: ±75V input survival with supplies off, ±60V continuous with ±15V supplies, and automatic channel disable on overvoltage - matching its multiplexer-mode behavior and distinguishing it from earlier-generation devices.

What is the typical ON-resistance matching between channels of the MAX378EPE?

At +25°C and ±15V supplies, the MAX378EPE exhibits ≤2% R_DS(ON) matching across all eight channels when analog input is +10V, and ≤3% matching at −10V. This tight matching ensures consistent gain and offset error across channels in precision DAQ applications - critical for calibration routines and software zero/gain correction using unused channels.

How does the MAX378EPE behave when power supplies are removed while analog signals remain present?

When V+ and V− are removed, the MAX378EPE automatically turns off all channels and draws only ≤100nA input leakage current even at ±75V applied to any input. This behavior protects upstream sensors (e.g., thermocouples, strain gauges) from damage and prevents backfeed into downstream circuitry - a core feature enabled by its series N–P–N gate structure with grounded FET gates during power loss.