Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4074BNESA

Overview

The MAX4074BNESA from Maxim Integrated is a micropower, fixed-gain, rail-to-rail operational amplifier in a SOT23-5 package, featuring factory-trimmed internal resistors for 0.1% gain accuracy, ±17V input fault protection, and operation from +2.5V to +5.5V single supply with only 34µA supply current. It delivers noninverting gain of +2.25V/V and is used in low-side current-sense amplification and photodiode preamplification where precision, size, and power efficiency are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4074BNESA datasheet, MAX4074BNESA pinout, MAX4074BNESA application, or MAX4074BNESA equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning for key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed alternative parts with documented differences, and supply-chain support details specific to this GainAmp™ variant.

Technical Context

The MAX4074BNESA implements a decompensated op amp core optimized for its fixed noninverting gain of +2.25V/V, achieving a 70kHz −3dB bandwidth and 4MHz gain-bandwidth product. Its internal laser-trimmed resistor network (RF/RG) sets gain without external components while maintaining rail-to-rail output swing into 1kΩ loads.

Fault protection uses back-to-back SCR structures at both inputs, enabling ±17V overvoltage tolerance relative to VEE without phase reversal or excessive current draw (<3.5mA). Input common-mode range extends from −0.15V below VEE to within 1.2V of VCC, and the device remains stable driving capacitive loads up to 100pF without isolation resistors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT23-5 package: 2.9mm × 1.6mm × 1.1mm, surface-mount, lead-free, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4074BNESA, the +1.25V/V variant offers lower noise gain and higher bandwidth for precision DC sensing, while the +3V/V version trades gain accuracy margin for improved transient response-both retain identical fault protection, supply range, and micropower consumption.

Availability

MAX4074BNESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable battery-powered equipment, photodiode preamplifiers, low-side current-sense amplifiers, and smart-card readers requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and guaranteed RoHS compliance.

Supply support for MAX4074BNESA 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 in industrial, medical, and consumer systems.

The MAX4074 series belongs to the GainAmp™ family of fixed-gain op amps, engineered to replace discrete op amp + resistor networks in space-constrained, low-power signal chains where gain accuracy and reliability are essential.

FAQ

What is the exact gain value and configuration of the MAX4074BNESA?

The MAX4074BNESA is a noninverting fixed-gain amplifier with a precisely trimmed gain of +2.25V/V. This value is laser-set on-die using the RF/RG resistor network and is guaranteed to ±0.1% across temperature. The device does not support external gain adjustment and operates exclusively in noninverting mode per its internal topology.

Does the MAX4074BNESA support dual-supply operation?

Yes, the MAX4074BNESA supports dual-supply operation from ±1.25V to ±2.75V, in addition to its primary single-supply range of +2.5V to +5.5V. When used with dual supplies, VEE connects to the negative rail and VCC to the positive rail; the input common-mode range extends from −0.15V below VEE to within 1.2V of VCC.

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4074BNESA can drive without oscillation?

The MAX4074BNESA is specified stable with capacitive loads up to 100pF when driving directly into the load with no series isolation resistor. This is confirmed in the datasheet's "Capacitive Load Stability" parameter (CLOAD = 100pF, no sustained oscillations), making it suitable for direct connection to ADC input capacitors or long PCB traces.

How does the ±17V input fault protection work on the MAX4074BNESA?

The MAX4074BNESA employs back-to-back SCR structures at both IN+ and IN− pins, allowing either input to safely withstand voltages from −17V to +17V relative to VEE without damage or phase reversal. Internal 5kΩ (IN+) and RG (IN−) current-limiting resistors restrict fault current to <3.5mA, protecting both the IC and upstream signal sources.

Is the MAX4074BNESA pin-compatible with other MAX4074 variants like MAX4074ANESA or MAX4074CNESA?

Yes, all MAX4074x ESA-grade SOT23-5 variants-including MAX4074BNESA, MAX4074ANESA, and MAX4074CNESA-are fully pin-compatible and share identical pinout, package dimensions, electrical ratings, and thermal characteristics. Only the internal gain setting differs; no PCB layout change is needed when substituting between them.