Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX398CPE

Overview

The MAX398CPE from Maxim Integrated is a precision 8-channel CMOS analog multiplexer with low on-resistance (<100Ω), matched channel resistance (<6Ω), and rail-to-rail signal handling across ±3V to ±8V or +3V to +15V supplies. It delivers fast switching (transition time <250ns), ultra-low charge injection (<5pC), and guaranteed ESD protection (>2000V), enabling high-fidelity signal routing in battery-operated data-acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX398CPE datasheet, MAX398CPE pinout, MAX398CPE application, or MAX398CPE equivalent, key selection criteria include on-resistance flatness (<11Ω), COM off-leakage current (<2.5nA at +85°C), TTL/CMOS logic compatibility, and pin compatibility with DG408/DG508A - critical for legacy design upgrades and test equipment retrofitting.

Technical Context

The MAX398CPE implements an 8:1 single-pole analog switch architecture with three address lines (A0–A2) and an active-high enable (EN). Its silicon-gate CMOS process ensures minimal charge injection and tightly matched R_ON across all eight channels, preserving signal integrity in precision sample-and-hold and multiplexed sensor interfaces.

It supports both single-supply (+3V to +15V) and dual-supply (±3V to ±8V) operation, with GND referenced to V− in single-supply mode. Logic inputs are compatible with TTL and CMOS thresholds (V_IL ≤ 0.8V, V_IH ≥ 2.4V), and the exposed pad (in QFN variants) is internally connected to V+, though the MAX398CPE uses Plastic DIP packaging without EP.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX398CPE is supplied in a 16-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP), with standard 0.300" body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is A0 (LSB address), pin 8 is COM (common analog I/O), pin 16 is V+ (positive supply), and pin 3 is V− (negative supply). The package has no exposed pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with DG408DN and ADG408BNZ, the MAX398CPE offers superior channel matching (<6Ω vs. unspecified or >10Ω), lower charge injection (<5pC), and higher ESD immunity (>2000V), making it optimal for precision, low-drift, and ruggedized applications where signal fidelity and reliability are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX398CPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, military radio subsystems, and battery-operated data-acquisition systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX398CPE 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, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX398CPE belongs to Maxim's precision analog multiplexer product line, designed specifically for applications demanding low distortion, tight channel matching, and robust operation in harsh or portable environments.

FAQ

What supply voltages does the MAX398CPE support?

The MAX398CPE operates from a single +3V to +15V supply or dual ±3V to ±8V supplies. When using single supply, V− must be connected to GND. The device maintains specified performance across this full range, including rail-to-rail analog signal handling up to ±4.5V with ±5V supplies. All electrical characteristics in the datasheet are validated for these conditions.

Is the MAX398CPE pin-compatible with the DG408?

Yes, the MAX398CPE is explicitly pin-compatible with the DG408 and DG508A, as confirmed in the datasheet's "Features" section and "Pin Configurations" diagram. Pin assignments for address lines (A0–A2), enable (EN), COM, NO1–NO8, V+, V−, and GND match exactly in the 16-pin PDIP package, enabling direct replacement without layout changes.

What is the maximum allowable analog signal range for the MAX398CPE?

The MAX398CPE supports analog signals from V− to V+ - i.e., rail-to-rail operation. With ±5V supplies, the usable range is ±4.5V; with +5V single supply (V− = GND), it is 0V to +4.5V. This is guaranteed by the "Analog Signal Range" specification (±4.5V min) and verified by on-resistance flatness data across that span.

How does the MAX398CPE handle charge injection in sample-and-hold applications?

The MAX398CPE guarantees charge injection <5pC, measured at VCOM = ±4.5V with ±5V supplies. This low value directly limits voltage step error on the hold capacitor (ΔV = Q/CL), enabling faster settling and higher effective resolution in 12–16-bit data acquisition systems - a key advantage over alternatives with >10pC injection.

Does the MAX398CPE require external protection diodes for overvoltage?

No - the MAX398CPE includes internal protection diodes on all analog and digital pins, as noted in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Applications Information sections. External diodes are only recommended if absolute maximum ratings risk being exceeded due to improper supply sequencing; they reduce signal range and are unnecessary under normal operation with proper V+/V− sequencing.