Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX396EPI

Overview

The MAX396EPI from Maxim Integrated is a precision 16-channel single-ended CMOS analog multiplexer designed for low-voltage signal routing in data acquisition and test systems. It delivers ≤100Ω on-resistance (max), ≤6Ω channel-to-channel R_ON matching, and <1nA input off-leakage at +85°C, operating from +2.7V to +16V single supply or ±2.7V to ±8V dual supplies - enabling high-accuracy switching in battery-powered and industrial sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MAX396EPI datasheet, MAX396EPI pinout, MAX396EPI application, or MAX396EPI equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, package mapping to 28-pin PDIP, functional truth table alignment, leakage and switching performance across temperature, and validated drop-in alternatives for legacy system upgrades and new designs requiring precision analog muxing with ESD-hardened operation.

Technical Context

The MAX396EPI implements a CMOS transmission-gate architecture with silicon-gate process optimization to minimize charge injection (≤5pC) and ensure flat on-resistance over its full analog signal range (V_COM/V_NO = V₋ to V₊). Its address-decoded 4-bit logic interface (A0–A3) and active-high enable (EN) support deterministic channel selection without break-before-make timing hazards.

It guarantees electrostatic discharge protection >2000V per Method 3015.7 and maintains TTL/CMOS-compatible digital inputs (V_AH ≥ 2.4V, V_AL ≤ 0.8V) across its −40°C to +85°C extended industrial temperature range, while retaining sub-250ns transition time and <2.5nA output off-leakage at maximum operating temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX396EPI is housed in a 28-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.6-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise convention from top view.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX396EPI, MAX306EPI trades precision R_ON matching and leakage for lower cost, while DG406DJ sacrifices ESD robustness and charge injection control - making MAX396EPI the optimal choice for high-accuracy, extended-temperature, and mission-critical analog multiplexing.

Availability

MAX396EPI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, industrial process control systems, and battery-operated instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX396EPI 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX396EPI belongs to Maxim's precision analog multiplexer product line, engineered for low-leakage, low-distortion signal routing in data acquisition, test instrumentation, and sensor interface applications demanding guaranteed matching and extended temperature reliability.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for the MAX396EPI?

The MAX396EPI is rated for operation from −40°C to +85°C, meeting extended industrial temperature requirements. This specification is confirmed in the Ordering Information table and validated across all electrical parameters including leakage current, on-resistance, and switching speed - unlike the commercial-grade MAX396CPI (0°C to +70°C). The MAX396EPI maintains <1nA input off-leakage and ≤100Ω R_ON across this full range.

Is the MAX396EPI pin-compatible with the MAX306 series?

Yes, the MAX396EPI is fully pin-compatible with the MAX306/MAX307 family, as explicitly stated in the Benefits and Features section and Functional Diagrams. All 28 pins - including V+, V−, GND, COM, NO1–NO16, A0–A3, and EN - occupy identical positions and perform identical functions. No PCB layout changes are required when upgrading from MAX306EPI to MAX396EPI for improved R_ON matching and leakage performance.

What supply voltage configurations does the MAX396EPI support?

The MAX396EPI supports three supply configurations: single +2.7V to +16V (with V− tied to GND), dual ±2.7V to ±8V, and unbalanced supplies like +10V/−5V. The absolute maximum ratings specify V+ to V− differential up to 17V. Operation below +2.7V is possible but not guaranteed - on-resistance and switching times degrade significantly, and the device is only characterized down to +2.7V per Electrical Characteristics tables.

Does the MAX396EPI require external protection diodes for overvoltage?

No, external protection diodes are not required for normal operation. The MAX396EPI includes internal ESD protection diodes rated >2000V per Method 3015.7, and its absolute maximum ratings allow signals up to (V− − 2V) to (V+ + 2V). External diodes are only recommended if power-supply sequencing cannot be controlled - in which case they reduce analog signal range by ~1.4V but preserve R_ON and leakage specs.

What is the guaranteed on-resistance matching between channels for the MAX396EPI?

The MAX396EPI guarantees ≤6Ω maximum on-resistance matching (ΔR_ON) between any two channels at +25°C, and ≤8Ω across the full −40°C to +85°C temperature range. This parameter is measured under specified conditions (I_NO = 1mA, V_COM = ±3.5V, V+ = 5V, V− = −5V) and is critical for applications requiring ratiometric measurements, multi-channel calibration, or gain-matched signal paths - directly confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table.