Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX397C/D

Overview

MAX397C/D from Maxim Integrated is a dual 8-channel CMOS analog multiplexer designed for precision signal routing in low-voltage systems. It features 100Ω max on-resistance, ≤6Ω channel-to-channel R_ON matching, <1nA input off-leakage at +85°C, and operates from single +2.7V to +16V or dual ±2.7V to ±8V supplies. It serves as the signal path selector in battery-powered data acquisition and audio routing applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX397C/D datasheet, MAX397C/D pinout, MAX397C/D application, or MAX397C/D equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON flatness (≤10Ω), charge injection (≤5pC), break-before-make timing (≤70ns), and compatibility with industry-standard control logic levels (TTL/CMOS).

Technical Context

The MAX397C/D implements a dual independent 8:1 analog multiplexer architecture with separate COMA/COMB outputs and shared address/enable logic. Each 8-channel bank uses silicon-gate CMOS process technology to achieve low charge injection (5pC max) and ESD robustness (>2000V HBM). Its internal decoder drives eight transmission gates per bank with matched threshold voltages to ensure tight R_ON tracking.

It supports unbalanced supply configurations (e.g., +10V/–5V), maintains analog signal range from V_– to V₊, and guarantees performance across 0°C to +70°C. Logic inputs tolerate 0.8V/2.4V thresholds with sub-0.1µA leakage, enabling direct interface with microcontrollers and FPGAs without level-shifting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Dice form factor - bare die intended for hybrid module integration or custom packaging; no leadframe or molded body. Requires wire bonding to substrate with defined pad layout per Maxim's die specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX307CPE+, the MAX397C/D provides dual independent signal paths and tighter R_ON matching-critical for differential or synchronized sampling. Versus ADG1208BRUZ, it delivers superior leakage and charge injection specs essential for low-drift, high-resolution data acquisition.

Availability

MAX397C/D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, audio routing systems, industrial process controllers, and low-voltage data acquisition requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MAX397C/D 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, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX396/MAX397 product line targets high-fidelity analog signal routing in low-voltage, low-power, and temperature-stable systems-emphasizing parameter matching, low leakage, and robust switching behavior.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog signal range supported by the MAX397C/D?

The MAX397C/D supports an analog signal range from V– to V+, meaning the full span between its negative and positive supply rails. With ±5V dual supplies, this yields a ±5V (–5V to +5V) range; with +5V/0V single supply, it supports 0V to +5V. The device guarantees performance across this entire range, including R_ON flatness ≤10Ω and low leakage, making MAX397C/D suitable for rail-to-rail signal routing in precision applications.

Does the MAX397C/D require external level-shifting for microcontroller GPIO control?

No, the MAX397C/D does not require external level-shifting. Its digital inputs (A0–A2, EN) are TTL/CMOS compatible with logic thresholds of VAL ≤ 0.8V (low) and VAH ≥ 2.4V (high), fully compatible with standard 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers. Input leakage remains below ±0.1µA across temperature, ensuring reliable drive without loading the MCU I/O. This native compatibility simplifies interface design and reduces BOM count for MAX397C/D implementations.

How does the MAX397C/D handle unbalanced supply configurations like +10V and –5V?

The MAX397C/D supports unbalanced supplies such as +10V and –5V, maintaining full functionality as long as the total supply differential (V+ – V–) stays within 17V and each rail remains within absolute maximum ratings (V+ ≤ +17V, V– ≥ –17V). In this configuration, the analog signal range extends from –5V to +10V, and all electrical specifications-including R_ON, leakage, and switching speed-remain guaranteed. This flexibility makes MAX397C/D adaptable to diverse power architectures without derating.

Is the MAX397C/D suitable for sample-and-hold circuitry?

Yes, the MAX397C/D is well-suited for sample-and-hold (S/H) applications due to its guaranteed low charge injection (≤5pC) and sub-1nA off-leakage at +85°C. These parameters directly minimize hold-mode voltage droop and switching-induced glitches on the hold capacitor. Combined with fast transition time (≤250ns) and break-before-make timing (≤70ns), MAX397C/D ensures clean, repeatable sampling-especially valuable in multi-channel S/H systems where channel-to-channel matching is critical.

What package options are available for the MAX397C/D besides the dice form?

In addition to the MAX397C/D dice variant, Maxim offers the MAX397 in plastic DIP (CPI), wide SO (CWI), SSOP (CAI), and PLCC (CQI) packages-all rated for 0°C to +70°C operation. The C/D suffix specifically denotes the bare die version intended for hybrid assembly or custom packaging. All variants share identical electrical specifications and pin functions; only mechanical form factor and thermal characteristics differ. Customers selecting MAX397C/D should confirm die mounting, wire-bonding, and thermal management requirements with their assembly partner.