Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4211CETE+

Overview

MAX4211CETE+ from Maxim Integrated is a full-featured high-side current and power monitor IC with integrated 1.21V bandgap reference, two open-drain comparators, and 40.96V/V current-sense gain. It delivers analog outputs proportional to load current (IOUT) and power (POUT), supports 4V–28V common-mode input range, operates from +2.7V to +5.5V supply, and targets battery-powered systems requiring real-time overload detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4211CETE+ datasheet, MAX4211CETE+ pinout, MAX4211CETE+ application, or MAX4211CETE+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package mapping, comparator interface behavior, gain-accuracy trade-offs across variants, and validated alternative options for overpower/overcurrent protection circuits.

Technical Context

The MAX4211CETE+ implements a precision analog multiplier architecture: its POUT output equals VSENSE × VRS+ × 1.64 (power gain), while IOUT = VSENSE × 40.96. The internal 1.21V reference enables stable comparator thresholds independent of VCC, and both comparators feature ±0.5mV offset and 5mV hysteresis for reliable overvoltage/overcurrent latching.

It uses a high-side sensing topology that avoids ground-path disruption-critical in smart battery packs and portable instrumentation. The device's 220kHz bandwidth, ±1.5% max current-sense accuracy, and 100µs power-up time support fast transient response in circuit-breaker applications without external compensation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4211CETE+ is housed in a 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin thin QFN package with exposed paddle (EP) for thermal performance. Pin numbering follows standard QFN convention, with pin 1 marked by dot or chamfered corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side power monitoring applications.

Compared with MAX4211CETE+, MAX4211BETE+ trades gain for improved full-scale headroom at high VSENSE, while INA226AIDGST replaces analog immediacy with digital configurability and precision-but adds firmware dependency and removes hardware latching capability.

Availability

MAX4211CETE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for overpower circuit breakers, smart battery packs, and industrial power-supply displays requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX4211CETE+ 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, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX4211 series was engineered specifically for high-side power and current monitoring in space-constrained, battery-sensitive systems-emphasizing analog immediacy, comparator integration, and wide common-mode operation without ground disruption.

FAQ

What is the maximum common-mode voltage supported by MAX4211CETE+?

MAX4211CETE+ supports a +4V to +28V common-mode input range at the RS+ pin. This allows direct connection to high-side sense resistors in 12V, 24V, and 28V industrial or automotive power rails without level-shifting circuitry. The specification is guaranteed across the full –40°C to +85°C operating temperature range.

Does MAX4211CETE+ require external passive components for basic operation?

Yes-MAX4211CETE+ requires a minimum 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor between VCC and GND. No external resistors are needed for gain setting (unlike MAX4210D/E/F), but external pull-up resistors are required on COUT1 and COUT2 for proper open-drain operation. The internal 25:1 resistor-divider and 1.21V reference eliminate need for external scaling networks.

How does the 40.96V/V current-sense gain of MAX4211CETE+ affect shunt resistor selection?

The 40.96V/V gain means a 100mV sense voltage produces a 4.096V IOUT signal-enabling use of low-value shunts (e.g., 5mΩ at 20A = 100mV) while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio. For MAX4211CETE+, optimal VSENSE is 10mV–100mV; below 5mV, total error increases beyond ±1.5% due to offset contributions.

Can MAX4211CETE+ be used for bidirectional current monitoring?

No-MAX4211CETE+ is designed exclusively for unidirectional high-side current sensing. Its architecture assumes positive VSENSE (RS+ > RS−) and does not support negative differential inputs or reverse-current detection. For bidirectional applications, consider the INA226 or MAX4008 family instead.

What is the purpose of the LE (Latch Enable) pin on MAX4211CETE+?

The LE pin controls latching behavior of the comparators: when LE is high, comparator outputs remain latched after triggering until LE is pulsed low. This enables persistent fault indication without continuous polling. MAX4211CETE+ requires a minimum 1µs LE pulse width, and the latch setup time is 3µs-critical for synchronized fault-clear sequences in safety-critical systems.