Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX399CSE

Overview

The MAX399CSE from Maxim Integrated is a dual 4-channel precision CMOS analog multiplexer with rail-to-rail signal handling, <100Ω on-resistance (typ. 60Ω), <6Ω channel-to-channel R_ON matching, and <5pC charge injection-designed for low-distortion signal routing in battery-operated test equipment and military radio front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX399CSE datasheet, MAX399CSE pinout, MAX399CSE application, or MAX399CSE equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed flat on-resistance (<11Ω variation), NO/COM off-leakage <2.5nA at +85°C, ±3V to ±8V bipolar or +3V to +15V single-supply operation, and pin compatibility with DG409/DG509A.

Technical Context

The MAX399CSE implements a dual independent 4:1 analog switch architecture with separate COMA/COMB outputs and shared address/control lines (A0, A1, EN). Each 4-channel block operates with TTL/CMOS-compatible logic inputs and supports break-before-make switching (t_OPEN = 40ns typ.) to prevent signal shorting during channel transitions.

Its silicon-gate CMOS process delivers ESD protection >2000V, low power consumption (<300µW), and stable performance across 0°C to +70°C. Signal integrity is maintained via low crosstalk (–75dB), high off-isolation (–92dB), and matched on-capacitance (C_COM(ON) = 34pF, C_NO(OFF) = 11pF).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX399CSE is housed in a 16-pin narrow SOIC (S16-1) package with exposed pad (EP) connected to V+. Pin 1 is A0; pin 2 is EN; pins 3 (V−), 13 (V+), and 14 (GND) provide power and reference; pins 4–7 are NO1A–NO4A; pins 8–9 are COMA/COMB; pins 10–13 are NO4B–NO1B (reordered per SOIC pinout); A1 is pin 16.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX399CSE, MAX399EEE extends thermal capability without altering signal path performance, while ADG409BRZ trades off precision and ruggedness for broader distributor availability-making MAX399CSE optimal for commercial-grade, high-fidelity analog switching where temperature stays within 0°C–70°C.

Availability

MAX399CSE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, military radio subsystems, and battery-operated medical sensors requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX399CSE 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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, communications, and defense applications.

The MAX399 belongs to Maxim's precision analog multiplexer product line, engineered for low-distortion, low-leakage signal routing in mission-critical systems where parameter stability over temperature and supply voltage is mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog signal range supported by the MAX399CSE?

The MAX399CSE supports rail-to-rail analog signals from V− to V+ across its full specified supply range. With ±5V supplies, the analog range is ±4.5V; with +5V single supply, it is 0V to 4.5V. This is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics tables for dual and single-supply operation, where V_COM/V_NO ranges are explicitly defined relative to V+ and V−. The MAX399CSE maintains this range without level-shifting circuitry.

Does the MAX399CSE require external pull-up resistors on its address or enable pins?

No, the MAX399CSE does not require external pull-up resistors. Its digital inputs (A0, A1, EN) are CMOS-compatible with guaranteed logic thresholds: V_IL ≤ 0.8V and V_IH ≥ 2.4V over temperature. Input leakage is ±0.1µA max, allowing direct connection to microcontroller GPIOs or FPGA outputs without additional biasing-verified in the Digital Logic Input section of the datasheet.

Can the MAX399CSE be used with unbalanced supplies like +10V and –5V?

Yes, the MAX399CSE supports unbalanced supplies. The Absolute Maximum Ratings specify V+ to V− differential up to +17V, and the Applications Information section explicitly states operation with "unbalanced supplies, such as +10V and –5V." Performance remains within spec as long as V+ and V− individually stay within their absolute limits (–0.3V to +17V and +0.3V to –17V respectively) and the total differential does not exceed 17V.

How does the MAX399CSE handle break-before-make timing during channel switching?

The MAX399CSE guarantees a break-before-make interval (t_OPEN) of 40ns minimum at +25°C, preventing momentary shorting between channels during address changes. This is measured between the turn-off of the previously selected channel and turn-on of the newly selected one, as shown in Figure 4 of the datasheet. The timing is process-controlled and does not require external delay circuitry.

Is the exposed pad (EP) on the MAX399CSE electrically connected, and how should it be handled on the PCB?

Yes, the exposed pad (EP) on the MAX399CSE is electrically connected to V+ and must be soldered to a V+ copper pour on the PCB. The datasheet pin description and package drawings confirm EP = "Exposed pad. Connect to V+." This connection improves thermal dissipation and reduces ground bounce-failure to connect EP may cause thermal derating or increased switching noise, as noted in the QFN package notes and Absolute Maximum Ratings section.