Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4236AEUA+

Overview

The MAX4236AEUA+ from Maxim Integrated is a grade-A, unity-gain-stable, rail-to-rail output operational amplifier with ultra-low 20µV (max) input offset voltage at +25°C, 2µV/°C max offset drift, and 1pA input bias current - designed for precision sensor signal conditioning in single-supply +3V/+5V systems such as strain gauge and electrochemical sensor front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4236AEUA+ datasheet, MAX4236AEUA+ pinout, MAX4236AEUA+ application, or MAX4236AEUA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, µMAX-8 package layout, shutdown functionality details, and validated alternatives for high-accuracy analog signal chains requiring minimal DC error and low power.

Technical Context

The MAX4236AEUA+ uses a CMOS input stage to achieve 1pA input bias current and 1000MΩ input resistance, enabling high-impedance sensor interfacing without significant loading error. Its ground-sensing input common-mode range extends to VEE − 0.15V, supporting true single-supply operation down to +2.4V.

This device features a 1.7MHz gain-bandwidth product and 0.3V/µs slew rate, optimized for unity-gain stability and low-noise DC-coupled amplification. Shutdown mode reduces quiescent current to 0.1µA while placing the output in high-impedance state - critical for battery-powered instrumentation with intermittent sensing cycles.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4236AEUA+ is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.8mm height), pin-compatible with SO-8 but with 50% smaller footprint and thermal performance suited for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar precision op amp applications.

Compared with OPA333AIDBVR and LTC2050CS5#TRMPBF, the MAX4236AEUA+ offers the optimal balance of ultra-low offset (20µV), negligible drift (2µV/°C), true shutdown capability, and µMAX-8 pinout - making it uniquely suited for battery-powered, high-precision sensor front-ends requiring both DC accuracy and power management.

Availability

MAX4236AEUA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for strain gauge interfaces, piezoelectric sensor amplifiers, and thermocouple signal conditioners requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX4236AEUA+ 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX4236/MAX4237 family was engineered for ultra-precision DC signal conditioning - targeting applications where sub-µV/°C drift, femtoamp input bias, and rail-to-rail operation are mandatory for sensor accuracy.

FAQ

What is the maximum input offset voltage specification for MAX4236AEUA+ at +25°C?

The MAX4236AEUA+ is grade-A tested and guaranteed to have a maximum input offset voltage of 20µV at +25°C. This value is 100% production tested per Maxim's datasheet, ensuring compliance across all units shipped. The typical offset is 5µV, and the device maintains tight distribution - critical for untrimmed sensor front-ends where calibration overhead must be minimized. This spec applies specifically to the µMAX-8 package variant MAX4236AEUA+.

Does MAX4236AEUA+ support single-supply operation, and what is its input common-mode range?

Yes, MAX4236AEUA+ supports true single-supply operation from +2.4V to +5.5V. Its input common-mode voltage range extends from VEE − 0.15V to VCC − 1.2V - meaning it can accept signals down to −0.15V when VEE = 0V (i.e., ground-referenced inputs). This ground-sensing capability enables direct connection to transducers whose outputs swing below the positive rail or reference to system ground, eliminating level-shifting circuitry in battery-powered instrumentation.

How does the shutdown function work on MAX4236AEUA+, and what is the recovery time?

The MAX4236AEUA+ enters shutdown mode when the SHDN pin is pulled to VEE (logic low, ≤0.3×VCC), reducing quiescent current to 0.1µA and forcing the output into a high-impedance state. Recovery occurs within 4µs after SHDN is raised to VCC (logic high, ≥0.7×VCC), restoring full operation with rail-to-rail output drive. This fast enable/disable cycle supports duty-cycled sensing architectures - for example, waking the amplifier only during ADC sampling windows to extend battery life in portable electrochemical sensors.

Is MAX4236AEUA+ stable driving capacitive loads, and what is the maximum supported value?

Yes, MAX4236AEUA+ is specified for capacitive load stability up to 200pF with no sustained oscillations - verified across temperature and supply voltage. This allows direct connection to ADC input capacitors (e.g., 10–50pF sampling caps), long PCB traces, or filtering networks without external compensation. Stability is maintained under all operating conditions including unity-gain configuration, making it robust for mixed-signal PCB layouts where parasitic capacitance cannot be fully eliminated.

What package type and pin count does MAX4236AEUA+ use, and are there unused pins?

MAX4236AEUA+ uses the 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.8mm height), with pins 5 and 7 designated as No Connection (N.C.) - not internally bonded and must remain unconnected. This pinout matches SO-8 for layout flexibility but offers superior thermal and space efficiency. The µMAX footprint is industry-standard and supported by major PCB design tools; land pattern dimensions and solder mask recommendations are provided in Maxim's package drawing 8LUMAXD.EPS.