Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX412BESA

Overview

MAX412BESA from Maxim Integrated is a dual, precision, low-noise operational amplifier optimized for high-speed, low-voltage systems. It delivers 2.4nV/√Hz input voltage-noise density at 1kHz, 28MHz unity-gain bandwidth, and 4.5V/µs slew rate while operating from ±2.4V to ±5V supplies and consuming only 2.5mA per amplifier. It is used in ultra-low-noise instrumentation amplifiers and infrared detector front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX412BESA datasheet, MAX412BESA pinout, MAX412BESA application, or MAX412BESA equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, SO-8 package layout, real-world noise-performance context, and validated alternative op amps for low-noise signal conditioning designs.

Technical Context

The MAX412BESA employs a bipolar input stage engineered to minimize voltage noise without compromising DC accuracy or AC stability - achieving 250µV max offset voltage and 115dB min open-loop gain. Its design avoids input current-limiting resistors to preserve noise performance, relying instead on back-to-back clamp diodes for ±0.1V differential input protection.

It supports stable operation into capacitive loads up to 3900pF in unity-gain configuration and maintains specified performance across –40°C to +85°C. The SO-8 package uses standard dual-op-amp pinout with independent IN+/IN–/OUT per channel and shared V+/V– rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX412BESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with industry-standard dual op-amp pinout. The exposed pad variant is not used in this grade; thermal path relies on PCB copper under the body.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise, dual op amp applications.

Compared with OPA211AIDR and ADA4898-2ARMZ, MAX412BESA offers the optimal balance of sub-2.5nV/√Hz noise, 28MHz bandwidth, and 2.5mA supply current in ±2.4V to ±5V operation - making it uniquely suited for portable, battery-powered low-noise instrumentation where power and noise are co-constrained.

Availability

MAX412BESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for low-noise frequency synthesizers, infrared detector interfaces, high-fidelity audio preamplifiers, and ultra-low-noise instrumentation amplifiers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX412BESA 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 consumer applications.

The MAX410/MAX412/MAX414 family was designed specifically for precision, low-noise signal conditioning in space- and power-constrained systems - emphasizing noise density, supply flexibility, and robustness over wide temperature ranges.

FAQ

What is the maximum differential input voltage the MAX412BESA can tolerate?

The MAX412BESA contains back-to-back clamp diodes that protect the input stage up to ±0.1V differential voltage. Exceeding this risks forward-biasing the diodes and injecting current into the input pins. For higher differential voltages - such as those arising from ESD or mismatched sensor outputs - external 1kΩ series resistors per input are recommended to limit current to <20mA, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This safeguard preserves the MAX412BESA's low-noise integrity while enabling robust field deployment.

Does the MAX412BESA require external offset nulling components?

No, the MAX412BESA does not require external offset nulling. Unlike the single-channel MAX410, which features dedicated NULL pins (pins 1 and 8), the MAX412BESA has no null terminals. Its input offset voltage is trimmed at wafer test and guaranteed to ±250µV maximum over –40°C to +85°C, eliminating the need for user-adjustable trim networks. This simplifies PCB layout and improves long-term stability in production systems using MAX412BESA.

Can the MAX412BESA operate from a single +5V supply?

Yes, the MAX412BESA supports single-supply operation down to +4.8V total supply (e.g., V+ = +5V, V– = GND). However, its input common-mode range is limited to V– + 1.5V to V+ – 1.5V, and output swing is typically +3.6V to –3.7V with ±5V supplies - meaning single-supply use requires careful biasing of input signals near mid-rail (e.g., +2.5V) and AC-coupled outputs or rail-to-rail output stages downstream. The device's specified performance is guaranteed for ±2.4V to ±5V dual supplies, not single-ended configurations.

What is the thermal resistance (θ_JA) of the MAX412BESA in SO-8 package?

The MAX412BESA in 8-pin SO package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 5.88mW/°C derating above +70°C, corresponding to 471mW maximum continuous power dissipation at TA = +70°C. This value assumes standard JEDEC 2-layer board conditions (1-inch² copper pad per lead). For sustained operation near maximum ratings, PCB layout must include ≥2cm² of 2-oz copper connected to pins 4 (V–) and 5 (V+) to maintain junction temperature below 125°C. No exposed thermal pad is present in the SO-8 variant of MAX412BESA.

How does the MAX412BESA compare to the MAX412ESA in terms of key specs?

The MAX412BESA and MAX412ESA share identical electrical specifications - including 2.4nV/√Hz max input noise, ±250µV max offset voltage, and 28MHz bandwidth - but differ in screening grade. The "B" suffix denotes tighter initial offset voltage distribution (±150µV typical vs. ±200µV for "E"), confirmed by production testing at +25°C. Both are rated for –40°C to +85°C operation and packaged in SO-8. The MAX412BESA is preferred for high-precision applications where lower initial offset reduces calibration burden, while MAX412ESA remains suitable for cost-sensitive designs meeting same spec limits.