Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4211FETE+T

Overview

MAX4211FETE+T 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 = VSENSE × VRS+) across +4V to +28V input common-mode range, enabling real-time overload detection in battery-powered systems without ground-path disruption.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4211FETE+T datasheet, MAX4211FETE+T pinout, MAX4211FETE+T application, or MAX4211FETE+T equivalent, this device supports precise overpower/overcurrent/overvoltage protection in smart battery packs, circuit-breaker control, and power-supply instrumentation - requiring attention to its 16-pin TQFN package, dual comparator thresholds, and external resistor-divider configuration for power gain.

Technical Context

The MAX4211FETE+T implements a high-side current-sense amplifier with multiplication architecture to generate POUT = VSENSE × VIN (for D/E/F variants), where VIN is derived from an external resistor divider across VRS+. Its 40.96V/V current gain and ±1.5% max current-sense accuracy enable sub-millivolt-level sensing resolution at full-scale VSENSE = 100mV.

Two uncommitted comparators accept inputs referenced to the internal 1.21V reference and support open-drain outputs rated up to 28V, allowing direct interface with high-side MOSFET gate drivers in circuit-breaker applications. The device operates from +2.7V to +5.5V supply and maintains 220kHz bandwidth on both IOUT and POUT paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4211FETE+T 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 notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4211FETE+T, MAX4211DET offers lower gain for extended VRS+ range while MAX4211EET provides balanced sensitivity for mid-range power applications - both retain identical comparator architecture, reference, and thermal performance but require recalibration of trip thresholds due to gain differences.

Availability

MAX4211FETE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart battery packs, industrial circuit breakers, and power-supply instrumentation requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX4211FETE+T 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 industrial, automotive, and computing applications, emphasizing high reliability and integration density.

The MAX4211 family targets high-side power monitoring in space-constrained, battery-sensitive systems - integrating current sensing, power computation, reference, and fault detection into a single 16-pin IC to replace multi-component discrete solutions.

FAQ

What is the function of the REF pin on the MAX4211FETE+T?

The REF pin on the MAX4211FETE+T provides a stable 1.21V ±10mV bandgap reference output, usable as a precision threshold for the two internal comparators or as a calibration reference for external circuitry. It sources/sinks up to 100µA while maintaining accuracy across -40°C to +85°C, and is internally decoupled to minimize noise coupling into the reference node. This eliminates the need for external voltage references in most overload-detection designs.

How does the MAX4211FETE+T achieve power measurement without a microcontroller?

The MAX4211FETE+T achieves analog power measurement by multiplying the sensed current (via VSENSE across a shunt) with an externally derived voltage (VIN) using an internal transconductance amplifier and analog multiplier topology. For the F variant, POUT = 40.96 × VSENSE × VIN, where VIN is set by an external resistor divider across VRS+. This produces a continuous analog voltage directly proportional to instantaneous load power - no digital computation or firmware is required.

Can the MAX4211FETE+T be used with a 3.3V supply and 24V VRS+ simultaneously?

Yes, the MAX4211FETE+T supports simultaneous +3.3V VCC and +24V VRS+ operation. Its +2.7V to +5.5V supply range and +4V to +28V RS+/RS− common-mode range are fully decoupled. The internal high-side current-sense amplifier rejects the 24V common-mode voltage, and all analog outputs (IOUT, POUT, REF) are ratiometric to VCC. No level-shifting or isolation is needed between the 3.3V domain and 24V power rail.

What is the purpose of the CIN1− and CIN2− pins on the MAX4211FETE+T?

The CIN1− and CIN2− pins on the MAX4211FETE+T serve as the inverting inputs for the two independent open-drain comparators. They are typically connected to IOUT or POUT to compare against thresholds applied to CIN1+ or CIN2+, enabling configurable overload detection (e.g., CIN1− → IOUT for overcurrent, CIN2− → POUT for overpower). Their input bias current is ±2nA, minimizing loading errors on high-impedance feedback nodes.

Does the MAX4211FETE+T include built-in overtemperature protection?

No, the MAX4211FETE+T does not include built-in overtemperature protection or thermal shutdown circuitry. It is specified for continuous operation from -40°C to +85°C ambient, with junction temperature limited to +150°C. Thermal design relies on proper PCB layout - the exposed paddle (EP) must be soldered to a thermally robust ground plane. System-level temperature monitoring requires external sensors or MCU ADC readings from REF or other nodes.