Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4074BEESA

Overview

MAX4074BEESA from Maxim Integrated is a micropower, fixed-gain, rail-to-rail operational amplifier in SOT23-5 package, featuring factory-trimmed internal resistors for 0.1% gain accuracy, ±17V input fault protection, 34µA supply current, and operation from +2.5V to +5.5V single supply. It serves as a precision signal-conditioning amplifier in low-side current-sense and photodiode preamp circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4074BEESA datasheet, MAX4074BEESA pinout, MAX4074BEESA application, or MAX4074BEESA equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed noninverting gain of +2.25V/V (per top mark "BE"), rail-to-rail output swing into 1kΩ, 120kHz –3dB bandwidth, and fault-protected inputs-critical for battery-powered sensor interfaces requiring robustness and minimal board space.

Technical Context

The MAX4074BEESA implements a decompensated op amp core optimized for its specific gain setting (+2.25V/V), achieving higher bandwidth than unity-gain-stable alternatives-120kHz –3dB bandwidth versus ~8kHz for a standard op amp at same gain. Its internal laser-trimmed RF/RG resistor network eliminates external components while maintaining 0.1% gain accuracy across temperature.

Fault protection uses back-to-back SCR structures and diode clamps on both inputs, limiting input fault current to <3.5mA at ±17V overvoltage relative to VEE. The input common-mode range extends from VEE–0.15V to VCC–1.2V for IN+, while IN– is referenced through RG, requiring attention to input voltage headroom in high-gain configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT23-5 package: 2.9mm × 1.6mm × 1.1mm body, gull-wing leads, JEDEC MO-178AC compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-gain amplifier applications.

Compared with MAX4074AEASA and MAX4074CEASA, the MAX4074BEESA offers optimal balance of gain (+2.25V/V), bandwidth (120kHz), and output drive capability-making it preferred for current-sense and photodiode applications where moderate gain and robust rail-to-rail performance are essential.

Availability

MAX4074BEESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for low-power portable instrumentation, battery-powered smart-card readers, and infrared remote control receivers requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX4074BEESA 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 power, sensing, and interface applications, with emphasis on integration, reliability, and low-power operation.

The MAX4074BEESA belongs to the GainAmp™ family of fixed-gain op amps, engineered to replace discrete op amp + resistor networks in space-constrained, cost-sensitive systems requiring guaranteed gain accuracy and fault resilience.

FAQ

What is the exact gain configuration of the MAX4074BEESA?

The MAX4074BEESA is a noninverting fixed-gain amplifier with a precisely trimmed +2.25V/V gain, confirmed by its top mark "BE" and the Gain Selector Guide in the official datasheet. This gain is achieved via internal laser-trimmed RF/RG resistors, delivering 0.1% accuracy without external components. The MAX4074BEESA does not support inverting configurations or user-adjustable gain.

Does the MAX4074BEESA support dual-supply operation?

Yes, the MAX4074BEESA operates from ±1.25V to ±2.75V dual supplies, in addition to its primary +2.5V to +5.5V single-supply range. When used in dual-supply mode, VEE connects to the negative rail (e.g., –1.25V), and VCC to the positive rail (e.g., +1.25V). Input common-mode range remains symmetric, and rail-to-rail output swing is preserved relative to both supplies.

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4074BEESA can drive stably?

The MAX4074BEESA is stable driving capacitive loads up to 100pF without external compensation. For loads exceeding 100pF, an isolation resistor (e.g., 100Ω) must be placed in series with the output to maintain phase margin and prevent oscillation. This behavior is verified in the datasheet's Typical Operating Characteristics, including pulse response plots with 47pF and 100pF loads.

How does the ±17V input fault protection work on the MAX4074BEESA?

The MAX4074BEESA incorporates back-to-back SCR structures and diode clamps on both IN+ and IN– pins, allowing either input to safely withstand ±17V relative to VEE without damage or excessive current draw. Internal 5kΩ and RG current-limiting resistors restrict fault current to <3.5mA. This protection remains active during normal operation and does not affect DC accuracy or bandwidth under nominal conditions.

Is the MAX4074BEESA pin-compatible with other MAX4074 variants like MAX4074AEASA or MAX4074CEASA?

Yes, all MAX4074 variants-including MAX4074BEESA, MAX4074AEASA, and MAX4074CEASA-are fully pin-compatible in the SOT23-5 package. They share identical pinout (OUT, VEE, IN+, IN–, VCC), electrical interface, supply requirements, and fault protection. Only the internal gain differs (+1.25V/V, +2.25V/V, +5V/V), making them drop-in replacements where gain adjustment is acceptable.