Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4036EXK

Overview

The MAX4036EXK from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, ultra-low-power rail-to-rail operational amplifier optimized for micropower battery-powered systems. It operates from a +1.4V to +3.6V supply, consumes only 800nA quiescent current per amplifier, delivers rail-to-rail output swing within 25mV of rails into 5kΩ, and features an input common-mode range extending to VDD − 0.4V at 1.4V supply - enabling precision signal conditioning in single-cell Li+ or two-cell alkaline/NiMH applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4036EXK datasheet, MAX4036EXK pinout, MAX4036EXK application, or MAX4036EXK equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, SC70-5 package mapping, functional pin roles, real-world use cases in portable medical instrumentation and remote sensor amplification, and validated alternative options for low-voltage, sub-1µA op amp selection.

Technical Context

The MAX4036EXK implements a BiCMOS input stage with ultra-low input bias current (±1.0pA typ) and rail-to-rail CMOS output stage, enabling operation down to 1.4V while maintaining 78dB large-signal voltage gain into 5kΩ loads. Its input common-mode range is specified from VSS to VDD − 0.4V at VDD = 1.4V, and it achieves 82dB PSRR over 1.4V–3.6V supply range - critical for direct battery connection without regulation.

No external reference bypass capacitor is required, and the device exhibits no phase reversal under overdriven inputs. It is unity-gain stable and supports capacitive loads up to 5000pF without oscillation, making it suitable for driving ADC input buffers and high-impedance sensor interfaces directly.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX4036EXK is housed in a 5-pin SC70-5 package (3.0mm × 1.7mm × 0.9mm), rated for −40°C to +85°C operation, with exposed die pad unconnected (non-thermal). Pin 1 is marked by a dot or notch; pin numbering follows standard SC70 counterclockwise from top-left when viewed from top.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-power operational amplifier applications.

Compared with MAX4036AEXK-T and LTC1540CS5#TRMPBF, the MAX4036EXK delivers optimal balance of ultra-low current (800nA), true rail-to-rail output, and 1.4V operation - making it the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, long-life, single-cell battery applications where extended temperature is not required.

Availability

The MAX4036EXK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered medical instrumentation, remote environmental sensor nodes, and micropower thermostats requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for MAX4036EXK 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, medical, and communications markets.

The MAX4036EXK belongs to Maxim's ultra-low-power op amp product line, designed specifically for precision signal conditioning in energy-constrained, battery-operated systems where supply voltage may fall below 1.8V.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage for reliable operation of the MAX4036EXK?

The MAX4036EXK is guaranteed to operate down to +1.4V supply voltage, with full specification compliance including rail-to-rail output swing and input common-mode range extending to VDD − 0.4V. At 1.4V, supply current remains at 800nA, and large-signal voltage gain exceeds 75dB into 5kΩ - making the MAX4036EXK uniquely suited for deeply discharged battery scenarios where other op amps fail.

Does the MAX4036EXK require an external reference or bypass capacitor?

No. The MAX4036EXK does not include an integrated voltage reference (unlike MAX4037/MAX4039), and requires no external bypass capacitor on VDD for stability. A 0.1µF ceramic capacitor to VSS is recommended for noise reduction but is not mandatory for basic functionality. The MAX4036EXK's internal architecture eliminates need for reference decoupling, simplifying design for space-constrained PCBs.

Can the MAX4036EXK drive a 1000pF capacitive load without oscillation?

Yes. The MAX4036EXK is unity-gain stable and characterized to drive up to 5000pF capacitive load without external compensation or isolation resistor. This capability allows direct interfacing with SAR ADC inputs, long PCB traces, or RC anti-aliasing filters - eliminating additional components and preserving signal fidelity in low-frequency sensor applications.

What is the input common-mode voltage range of the MAX4036EXK at 1.4V supply?

At VDD = +1.4V, the MAX4036EXK guarantees an input common-mode voltage range from VSS (0V) to VDD − 0.4V (1.0V), as confirmed by CMRR testing. This 1.0V range supports operation with ground-referenced sensors and enables accurate amplification of signals near the negative rail - a key advantage over conventional op amps that lose input range at low supply voltages.

Is the MAX4036EXK pin-compatible with other members of the MAX4036–MAX4039 family?

No. The MAX4036EXK uses a 5-pin SC70 package with IN+, VSS, IN−, OUT, VDD pinout. In contrast, dual-amplifier variants (MAX4038/MAX4039) use 8–10 pin packages with different pin assignments, and the reference-equipped MAX4037 uses a 6-pin SOT23. No pin-compatible drop-in replacements exist within the family - each variant requires unique PCB layout.