Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4181ESA
- Part No.:
- MAX4181ESA
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4181ESA.pdf
- Description:
- IC OPAMP 270MHZ 1MA 8-SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,520
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Product details
Overview
MAX4181ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single, current-feedback operational amplifier optimized for +1V/V (0dB) gain applications, delivering 270MHz small-signal -3dB bandwidth, 450V/µs slew rate, and 20ns settling time to 0.1% in a space-saving 6-pin SOT23 package. It operates from ±2.25V to ±5.5V dual supplies or +5V single supply, draws only 1mA quiescent current, and features shutdown mode reducing supply current to 135µA while placing output in high-impedance state - ideal for video multiplexing and portable HD video systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4181ESA datasheet, MAX4181ESA pinout, MAX4181ESA application, or MAX4181ESA equivalent, this page provides verified circuit role (current-feedback video op-amp), exact gain-stability condition (AV ≥1), confirmed shutdown behavior, differential gain/phase error (0.08%/0.03°), and real-world video system integration context - all critical for high-fidelity analog signal path design.
Technical Context
The MAX4181ESA uses a current-feedback architecture with transresistance gain stage, enabling wide bandwidth independent of closed-loop gain - unlike voltage-feedback op-amps. Its internal compensation ensures stability at unity gain (AV ≥1), distinguishing it from the +2V/V–optimized MAX4180 family members.
It integrates a dedicated SHDN input that controls an internal power-gating circuit, reducing supply current to 135µA and forcing output into high-impedance state without external isolation components. Input bias currents are matched (±1µA typ) and input resistance is asymmetric (RIN+ = 160Ω, RIN− = 250kΩ), reflecting its CFB topology's inherent input structure.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Small-Signal Bandwidth | 270MHz (-3dB, dual supply, AV = +1V/V) - supports full HD video baseband signal integrity up to ~140MHz fundamental. |
| Slew Rate | 450V/µs - enables clean reproduction of fast video transients (e.g., sync pulses, edge transitions) without slewing distortion. |
| Settling Time | 20ns to 0.1% - meets tight timing budgets in high-speed A/D buffering and CCD imaging pixel readout. |
| Differential Gain/Phase Error | 0.08%/0.03° (NTSC, RL = 150Ω) - preserves color fidelity in broadcast-grade analog video signal chains. |
| Supply Current | 1.0mA (active), 135µA (shutdown) - enables battery-powered operation and dynamic power management in portable systems. |
| Input Voltage Range | ±3.6V (dual), 1.3V to 3.7V (single +5V) - supports rail-to-rail input swing within standard video DC restoration windows. |
| Output Drive | ±60mA - drives 150Ω video loads directly without external buffers, simplifying PCB layout. |
Pinout & Package
MAX4181ESA is housed in a 6-pin SOT23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), 2.9mm × 1.6mm × 1.1mm, with gull-wing leads and thermal pad not present. Pin 1 is marked with a dot; top-view orientation follows standard SOT23 pin numbering.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 5 | No Connection | Not internally bonded - must be left floating or grounded per layout best practice; no electrical function. |
| 2 | Inverting Input (IN−) | Current-summing node for CFB topology; high-impedance input (250kΩ) sets feedback current path. |
| 3 | Noninverting Input (IN+) | Low-impedance input (160Ω); establishes reference point for differential input voltage and common-mode range. |
| 4 | Negative Supply (VEE) | Connect to -5V (dual) or GND (single +5V); defines lower rail for output swing and input common-mode range. |
| 6 | Output (OUT) | High-current, low-impedance output (0.2Ω typ); delivers ±60mA into 30Ω load with minimal distortion. |
| - | Shutdown (SHDN) | Active-high control (VIH ≥ VCC − 2V); asserts high-Z output and cuts supply current to 135µA when low. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Unity-gain stable CFB architecture | Guaranteed stable operation at AV = +1V/V - eliminates need for external compensation in buffer/gain=1 configurations. |
| Integrated shutdown control | Reduces active supply current by >90% (1mA → 135µA) and places output in high-Z - enables seamless channel switching in video multiplexers. |
| Ultra-low distortion video performance | 0.08%/0.03° DG/DP error and -73dBc SFDR at 5MHz - maintains NTSC/PAL color accuracy and SNR in professional video signal paths. |
| Wide supply flexibility | Operates from ±2.25V to ±5.5V dual or +5V single supply - supports legacy ±5V systems and modern low-voltage portable designs. |
| Fast transient response | 20ns settling to 0.1% with 450V/µs slew rate - meets timing constraints in high-speed ADC drivers and digital video interface reconstruction filters. |
Applications
| Surveillance Video | Broadcast Video Systems |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Analog CCTV camera signal distribution to multiple monitors or recording units via analog matrix switcher. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Video buffer and multiplexer driver with shutdown-controlled channel isolation. Use Value: Enables zero-crosstalk switching between camera feeds using SHDN to place unused outputs in high-Z, preserving signal integrity on shared backplanes. | Use Scenario: RGB or YPbPr component video signal conditioning in studio routing switchers before transmission or encoding. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unity-gain video line driver with precise DC restoration and gain flatness to 70MHz. Use Value: Maintains <0.1dB gain flatness to 70MHz and 0.08%/0.03° DG/DP - meets SMPTE 253M broadcast compliance for color fidelity. |
| Portable Medical Imaging | High-Speed ADC Front-End |
Use Scenario: Driving analog video output from handheld ultrasound or endoscope processors to display modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, high-fidelity video amplifier supporting battery-operated portable diagnostics equipment. Use Value: 1mA supply current and shutdown mode extend battery life; 270MHz bandwidth preserves high-resolution image detail in real-time display pipelines. | Use Scenario: Buffering high-frequency sensor signals (e.g., radar IF, optical encoder outputs) into 10–12-bit SAR or pipeline ADCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-slew-rate, low-settling-time driver ensuring accurate sampling of fast transient waveforms. Use Value: 20ns settling to 0.1% and 450V/µs slew rate prevent aperture error and maintain ENOB across full ADC input bandwidth. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar current-feedback amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| THS3201DGN | Higher supply current (12.5mA), wider bandwidth (1.8GHz), no shutdown - requires external enable logic for power gating. | Targeted at RF/IF signal chains, not video; lacks video-optimized DG/DP specs and 150Ω drive capability. | Select THS3201DGN only when >1GHz bandwidth and ultra-low noise (1.8nV/√Hz) outweigh power and video fidelity requirements. |
| LMH6720MF | Lower bandwidth (280MHz), higher supply current (12mA), no shutdown, different pinout (SOT23-5 vs SOT23-6). | Optimized for general-purpose high-speed amplification; not characterized for NTSC DG/DP or 150Ω video load drive. | Choose LMH6720MF if pin compatibility with legacy SOT23-5 layouts is required and shutdown is implemented externally. |
Compared with THS3201DGN and LMH6720MF, MAX4181ESA uniquely combines video-grade differential gain/phase performance, integrated shutdown, 1mA quiescent current, and guaranteed unity-gain stability - making it the only drop-in solution for low-power, high-fidelity analog video multiplexing and portable HD signal routing.
Availability
MAX4181ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for surveillance video systems, broadcast equipment, and portable medical imaging devices requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.
Supply support for MAX4181ESA 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and consumer applications.
The MAX4180–MAX4187 family was engineered specifically for high-performance analog video signal conditioning - balancing bandwidth, power efficiency, and video fidelity in miniature packages for portable and professional video systems.
FAQ
What is the minimum recommended supply voltage for MAX4181ESA in dual-supply operation?
The MAX4181ESA supports dual-supply operation from ±2.25V to ±5.5V. At ±2.25V, it maintains specified performance including 270MHz bandwidth and 20ns settling time. Operation below ±2.25V is not characterized and may result in degraded bandwidth, increased distortion, or instability - always verify functionality across temperature and load conditions if operating near minimum rails.
Does MAX4181ESA require external compensation for unity-gain stability?
No, MAX4181ESA is internally compensated for stable operation at AV ≥ +1V/V (0dB). Unlike the MAX4180/MAX4182 variants (optimized for AV ≥ +2V/V), the MAX4181ESA's compensation network is factory-trimmed to ensure phase margin and step response integrity specifically at unity gain - no external capacitors or resistors are needed for stable buffer configurations.
How does the shutdown feature affect output impedance in MAX4181ESA?
When SHDN is asserted low (≤ VCC − 3V), the MAX4181ESA disables its output stage and places the OUT pin in a true high-impedance state - measured leakage current is ±0.1µA max into ±3V. This is distinct from tri-state digital outputs; it is an analog high-Z mode enabling safe connection to shared video buses without loading or crosstalk during channel switching.
Can MAX4181ESA drive a 75Ω video load directly?
MAX4181ESA is characterized for 150Ω loads (standard for professional video), delivering ±60mA output current and maintaining 0.08%/0.03° DG/DP. While it can drive 75Ω loads, output swing reduces to ±3.0V (vs ±3.75V into 1kΩ), and distortion increases - use a 150Ω termination or add a series resistor to match 75Ω systems while preserving video fidelity per SMPTE standards.
What is the typical input referred voltage noise density of MAX4181ESA at 10kHz?
The MAX4181ESA exhibits a typical input-referred voltage noise density of 2nV/√Hz at 10kHz, consistent across dual- and single-supply operation. This low noise floor supports high-SNR applications such as medical imaging front-ends and precision video signal amplification where noise contribution must remain below 10µV RMS in a 10MHz bandwidth.
MAX4181ESA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Amplifier Type:
- Current Feedback
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- -
- Slew Rate:
- 320V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 270 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 1 µA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 1.5 mV
- Current - Supply:
- 1mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 60 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 4.5 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 11 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX4181ESA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4181ESA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4181ESA on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX4181ESA reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4181ESA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4181ESA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4181ESA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4181ESA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4181ESA?
MAX4181ESA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4181ESA order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX4181ESA?
For technical support, including MAX4181ESA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4181ESA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4181ESA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4181ESA products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX4181ESA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4181ESA?
All MAX4181ESA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4181ESA, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX4181ESA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4181ESA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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