Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4211CEUE+

Overview

MAX4211CEUE+ from Maxim Integrated is a full-featured high-side current and power monitor IC integrating a precision current-sense amplifier, 1.21V bandgap reference, and two open-drain comparators. It delivers analog outputs proportional to load current (IOUT) and power (POUT) with ±1.5% max accuracy, operates from +4V to +28V input common-mode voltage, and supports real-time overload detection in battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4211CEUE+ datasheet, MAX4211CEUE+ pinout, MAX4211CEUE+ application, or MAX4211CEUE+ equivalent, this device is selected for high-accuracy, high-voltage-side monitoring where ground-path integrity is critical-especially in smart battery packs, circuit-breaker protection, and power-supply instrumentation requiring dual comparator thresholds and stable reference output.

Technical Context

The MAX4211CEUE+ implements a true analog multiplier architecture that computes POUT = VSENSE × VRS+ × gain, using an internal 25:1 resistor divider for fixed-ratio scaling. Its current-sense amplifier features 40.96V/V gain (C variant), enabling 100mV full-scale sensing across a 4V–28V common-mode range without ground disturbance.

Two uncommitted comparators accept inputs referenced to the 1.21V internal reference and support overcurrent/overpower/overvoltage latching via LE and INHIBIT control logic. Open-drain outputs tolerate up to 28V pull-up, allowing direct interface with high-side MOSFET gate drivers in breaker applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4211CEUE+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP package (4mm × 4mm, 0.65mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 marked by dot; pin 16 is GND. Package supports standard reflow and provides low thermal resistance for continuous operation at full spec.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4211CEUE+, MAX4008AESA+ reduces integration but sacrifices power computation and hardware fault response, while INA226AIDGST shifts functionality to digital domain-increasing latency and removing deterministic analog comparator behavior critical for safety-critical breakers.

Availability

MAX4211CEUE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart battery packs, overpower circuit breakers, and power-supply displays requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for industrial and embedded OEM programs.

Supply support for MAX4211CEUE+ 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX4211CEUE+ belongs to Maxim's high-side power monitoring product line, engineered specifically for ground-independent current/power measurement and autonomous hardware-level fault detection in battery and power-system applications.

FAQ

What is the exact current-sense gain of MAX4211CEUE+ and how is it configured?

The MAX4211CEUE+ has a fixed current-sense amplifier gain of 40.96V/V, corresponding to the 'C' variant in the MAX4211 family. This gain is factory-trimmed and does not require external resistors-it is implemented using internal laser-trimmed thin-film resistors. The gain enables accurate 100mV full-scale sensing across the entire +4V to +28V common-mode range, and is specified with ±1.5% max error over -40°C to +85°C. No configuration pins or external components are needed to set this gain.

Can MAX4211CEUE+ monitor a 48V rail?

No, MAX4211CEUE+ cannot safely monitor a 48V rail. Its absolute maximum RS+ voltage is +30V, and its guaranteed common-mode input range is limited to +4V to +28V. Applying 48V to RS+ exceeds the absolute maximum rating and risks permanent damage. For 48V systems, a level-shifting solution or higher-voltage monitor such as the MAX4008AESA+ (with external attenuator) or AD8210 (48V-rated) must be used instead of MAX4211CEUE+.

How do the comparators in MAX4211CEUE+ interface with a 24V high-side MOSFET gate driver?

The COUT1 and COUT2 outputs of MAX4211CEUE+ are open-drain and rated for up to 28V pull-up, making them directly compatible with 24V gate drivers. Connect a pull-up resistor (e.g., 10kΩ) from COUTx to 24V, then tie the driver's EN/IN pin to that node. When a fault occurs, the comparator pulls the node low, disabling the gate driver. No level-shifter or buffer is required-the MAX4211CEUE+ output stage is explicitly designed for this use case, as confirmed in the Functional Diagram and Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Does MAX4211CEUE+ require external passive components for basic operation?

Yes-MAX4211CEUE+ requires three external components for reliable operation: a 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor between VCC and GND, a current-sense resistor (RSENSE) placed between RS+ and RS-, and pull-up resistors on COUT1/COUT2 if driving external logic or MOSFET gates. No external resistors are needed for gain or reference scaling-the 25:1 internal divider and 1.21V reference are fully integrated. Layout best practice also recommends grounding all N.C. pins.

What is the purpose of the LE and INHIBIT pins on MAX4211CEUE+?

The LE (Latch Enable) and INHIBIT pins provide hardware-controlled fault latching. When LE is high, comparator outputs latch on first fault and remain asserted until INHIBIT receives a clean high pulse-resetting both comparators and clearing the latch. This enables autonomous, glitch-immune fault capture without continuous MCU polling. In MAX4211CEUE+, this pair allows one-shot breaker activation: a single overload triggers irreversible shutdown until explicit reset, meeting safety requirements for Class I equipment.