Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX398C/D

Overview

MAX398C/D from Maxim Integrated is an 8-channel precision CMOS analog multiplexer with rail-to-rail signal handling, <100Ω on-resistance (±6Ω matching), <5pC charge injection, and operation from +3V to +15V single or ±3V to ±8V dual supplies-used in battery-operated data-acquisition systems and military radio signal routing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX398C/D datasheet, MAX398C/D pinout, MAX398C/D application, or MAX398C/D equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package-validated terminal roles, leakage/switching performance at temperature extremes, and direct industry-standard alternatives for precision analog switching designs.

Technical Context

The MAX398C/D implements a monolithic silicon-gate CMOS switch architecture with decoder-controlled channel selection (A0–A2) and global enable (EN), supporting break-before-make switching with <40ns transition time and guaranteed flat on-resistance (<11Ω variation) across ±4.5V analog signal range. It integrates ESD protection >2000V and substrate tied to V+.

Its low-noise design achieves <2.5nA COM off-leakage at +85°C and <1nA NO off-leakage under same conditions, while maintaining TTL/CMOS logic compatibility and <300µW quiescent power-enabling high-accuracy sample-and-hold and automatic test equipment interfaces without external level-shifting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Dice form factor (no leadframe or molded package); bare die requires custom mounting with exposed substrate connected to V+. Pin functions mapped per MAX398 top-view layout: pins 1–16 correspond to A2/A1/A0/EN/V−/NO1–NO4/COM/NO8–NO5/V+/GND.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG408BRUZ and TS5A23157DGSR, the MAX398C/D uniquely combines guaranteed sub-6Ω RON matching, dual-supply flexibility, and <5pC charge injection-making it irreplaceable in high-fidelity sample-and-hold and calibrated ATE systems requiring channel consistency.

Availability

MAX398C/D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for military radios, battery-operated systems, and automatic test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX398C/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 and mixed-signal ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX398C/D belongs to Maxim's precision analog multiplexer product line, engineered specifically for low-leakage, low-distortion signal routing in high-reliability test and measurement systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog signal range supported by the MAX398C/D?

The MAX398C/D supports rail-to-rail analog signals from V− to V+ across its full operating supply range. With ±5V dual supplies, the usable analog range is ±4.5V; with +5V single supply, it extends from 0V to +4.5V. This range is guaranteed by the <11Ω on-resistance flatness specification and validated in the Typical Operating Characteristics graphs on pages 6–7 of the datasheet.

Does the MAX398C/D require external protection diodes for overvoltage tolerance?

No-external diodes are not required for normal operation within Absolute Maximum Ratings. The MAX398C/D includes internal protection diodes (as shown in Figure 1), and proper supply sequencing (V+ first, then V−, then logic) ensures robustness. Diodes are only recommended if absolute maximum ratings risk being exceeded, and even then, they reduce analog range by one diode drop and are not advised for single-supply use.

How does the MAX398C/D achieve guaranteed on-resistance matching below 6Ω?

The MAX398C/D achieves <6Ω RON matching through Maxim's low-voltage silicon-gate CMOS process and matched transistor layout techniques. This parameter is 100% tested at temperature extremes and guaranteed by correlation at +25°C (Note 4 in Electrical Characteristics). It reflects the difference between maximum and minimum measured RON across all eight channels under identical bias conditions.

Can the MAX398C/D operate with unbalanced supplies like +10V and -5V?

Yes-the MAX398C/D supports unbalanced supplies as long as the total differential (V+ − V−) does not exceed 17V and each supply remains within its absolute maximum rating (V+ ≤ +17V, V− ≥ −17V). The Applications Information section explicitly confirms operation with asymmetric rails such as +10V/−5V, and performance parameters like leakage and RON remain valid within the specified analog signal range.

What is the function of the exposed substrate connection in the MAX398C/D dice form?

In the MAX398C/D dice variant, the substrate is internally connected to V+ (as stated in the Chip Topographies section on page 12). This connection is mandatory for latch-up immunity and must be externally bonded to the V+ supply plane on the carrier substrate. Failure to tie the substrate to V+ risks CMOS latch-up and permanent device failure under transient conditions.