Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX381CPE+

Overview

The MAX381CPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a precision single-pole single-throw (SPST) analog switch with normally open configuration, designed for low-voltage signal routing in precision instrumentation and battery-powered systems. It delivers 20Ω typical on-resistance, <2Ω channel-to-channel matching, <5pC charge injection, <2.5nA off-leakage at +85°C, and rail-to-rail analog signal handling from ±3V to ±8V dual supplies or +3V to +15V single supply.

For engineers reviewing the MAX381CPE+ datasheet, MAX381CPE+ pinout, MAX381CPE+ application, or MAX381CPE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed on-resistance flatness (<4Ω), CMOS/TTL logic compatibility across 3V/5V/±3V/±5V supplies, fast switching (t_ON < 175ns, t_OFF < 100ns), and operation over 0°C to +70°C industrial temperature range in 16-pin plastic DIP package.

Technical Context

The MAX381CPE+ employs Maxim's low-voltage silicon-gate process to achieve high accuracy and low distortion in analog signal paths. Its architecture ensures matched on-resistance between channels and minimal variation across the full analog signal range (V_COM, V_NO = V⁻ to V⁺), enabling precise multiplexing in sample-and-hold and test equipment circuits.

It supports both single-supply (+3V to +15V) and split-supply (±3V to ±8V) operation while maintaining CMOS-input compatibility and rail-to-rail signal swing. Charge injection (<5pC) and leakage performance (<250pA at +25°C, <2.5nA at +85°C) are guaranteed across temperature, critical for high-resolution data acquisition and low-power portable designs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX381CPE+ is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), rated for 0°C to +70°C operation. Pin 13 is GND; pins 11 and 14 are V+ and V− respectively; pins 1/3/6/8 are COM terminals; pins 9/16 are NO terminals; pins 10/15 are logic inputs (IN1/IN2); pins 2/7/12 are not internally connected (N.C.).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG1419BRUZ and TS5A23157DRCR, the MAX381CPE+ uniquely balances low charge injection (<5pC), tight R_ON matching (<2Ω), and extended temperature capability (0°C to +70°C) in a through-hole DIP package-making it optimal for repairable, high-reliability test and defense systems where long-term stability matters.

Availability

MAX381CPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for sample-and-hold circuits, military radio signal routing, and test equipment requiring stable component supply with long-lifecycle support and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX381CPE+ 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, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX381CPE+ belongs to Maxim's precision analog switch product line, engineered for low-distortion, low-leakage signal routing in demanding instrumentation, defense, and automated test environments where parameter guarantees across temperature are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage range supported by the MAX381CPE+?

The MAX381CPE+ operates with a single positive supply from +3V to +15V or with split supplies from ±3V to ±8V. Absolute maximum ratings specify V+ to −0.3V to +17V and V− to +0.3V to −17V, but functional operation is guaranteed only within the specified ranges. Exceeding ±8V on V− or +15V on V+ risks permanent damage, and the MAX381CPE+ must never see V+ − V− > 17V.

Does the MAX381CPE+ require external pull-up resistors on its logic inputs?

No, the MAX381CPE+ does not require external pull-up resistors. Its CMOS/TTL-compatible logic inputs draw less than 1µA over temperature and accept standard 3V, 5V, ±3V, or ±5V logic levels. Input thresholds are guaranteed at V_AH ≥ 2.4V and V_AL ≤ 0.8V, allowing direct interfacing with microcontrollers, FPGAs, and logic families without additional biasing components.

How does the on-resistance of the MAX381CPE+ vary with analog signal voltage?

The MAX381CPE+ guarantees on-resistance flatness of <4Ω across its full analog signal range (V_COM, V_NO = V⁻ to V⁺). Typical R_ON remains within ±1Ω from minimum to maximum V_COM under ±5V dual-supply conditions, and variation stays below 3Ω even at temperature extremes - a key differentiator versus non-guaranteed switches where R_ON can double near supply rails.

Is the MAX381CPE+ pin-compatible with the DG401 series?

Yes, the MAX381CPE+ is explicitly pin-compatible with the DG401, DG403, and DG405 analog switches. Pin assignments for COM, NO, IN, V+, V−, and GND match exactly in the 16-pin DIP package, enabling drop-in replacement without PCB modification. However, the MAX381CPE+ improves upon the DG401 with lower charge injection (<5pC vs. ~15pC), tighter R_ON matching (<2Ω vs. ~5Ω), and guaranteed flatness specification.

What is the thermal performance of the MAX381CPE+ in continuous operation?

The MAX381CPE+ has a maximum continuous power dissipation of 842mW at +70°C ambient in its 16-pin plastic DIP package, derating linearly at 10.53mW/°C above that temperature. Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) is approximately 119°C/W. Under typical conditions (V+ = +5V, V− = −5V, all switches on), supply currents remain below 0.1µA, resulting in negligible self-heating - making thermal design straightforward in most applications.