Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4236BESA-T

Overview

The MAX4236BESA-T from Maxim Integrated is a high-precision, unity-gain stable rail-to-rail output operational amplifier with 20µV (max) input offset voltage at +25°C (Grade B), 2µV/°C max offset drift, 1pA input bias current, and 1.7MHz gain-bandwidth product-designed for low-voltage, low-power sensor signal conditioning in battery-powered instrumentation and electrochemical sensing systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4236BESA-T datasheet, MAX4236BESA-T pinout, MAX4236BESA-T application, or MAX4236BESA-T equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, SO-8 package terminal mapping, real-world use cases in strain gauge and thermocouple amplification, and two validated alternative op amps with documented functional trade-offs.

Technical Context

The MAX4236BESA-T employs a CMOS input stage enabling ultra-low input bias current (1pA) and ground-sensing input common-mode range extending to VEE − 0.15V. Its DC precision is achieved without chopper stabilization, relying instead on laser-trimmed input transistors to guarantee 20µV max V_OS and 2µV/°C max TCV_OS for Grade B in SO-8 packaging.

It features rail-to-rail output swing (within 150mV of rails into 1kΩ), shutdown mode reducing quiescent current to 0.1µA while forcing output into high-impedance state, and stable operation from +2.4V to +5.5V single supply-making it suitable for +3V/+5V systems where input offset stability and low power are critical.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4236BESA-T is supplied in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint (5.0mm × 6.2mm, 1.27mm pitch). The package is RoHS-compliant and rated for −40°C to +85°C operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-precision, low-input-bias op amp applications.

Compared with OPA333AIDR and LTC2050CS8#TRPBF, the MAX4236BESA-T uniquely balances ultra-low input bias current (1pA), moderate drift (2µV/°C), and absence of chopper noise-making it the only viable choice for high-impedance, low-frequency, noise-sensitive DC amplification where both leakage and spectral purity matter.

Availability

MAX4236BESA-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for strain gauge instrumentation, thermocouple amplification, and electrochemical sensor interface applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4236BESA-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) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications markets.

The MAX4236/MAX4237 family was designed specifically for ultra-precision, low-power, single-supply sensor signal conditioning-targeting applications where input bias current, offset drift, and rail-to-rail output swing are decisive selection criteria.

FAQ

What is the maximum input offset voltage specification for MAX4236BESA-T at +25°C?

The MAX4236BESA-T is a Grade B device with a guaranteed maximum input offset voltage of 20µV at +25°C, as specified in the SO-8 package electrical characteristics table. This value is production-tested and applies across the full operating temperature range of −40°C to +85°C, with a maximum drift of 2µV/°C ensuring predictable performance in industrial environments.

Does MAX4236BESA-T support single-supply operation, and what is its minimum supply voltage?

Yes, the MAX4236BESA-T supports true single-supply operation from +2.4V to +5.5V. Its input common-mode range extends to VEE − 0.15V (i.e., −0.15V when VEE = GND), and its rail-to-rail output swings within 150mV of both rails into a 1kΩ load-enabling full-scale signal utilization in +3V and +5V systems without dual supplies.

What is the function of the SHDN pin on MAX4236BESA-T, and how does it affect output behavior?

The SHDN pin on MAX4236BESA-T controls shutdown mode: pulling it low (≤0.3×VCC) reduces quiescent current to 0.1µA and places the amplifier output in a high-impedance state. Pulling it high (≥0.7×VCC) enables normal operation. Recovery time from shutdown is 4µs, and shutdown delay is 1µs-making it suitable for power-gated sensor multiplexing in portable instruments.

Can MAX4236BESA-T drive capacitive loads, and what is its stability limit?

Yes, the MAX4236BESA-T is stable driving capacitive loads up to 200pF with no sustained oscillations, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table. This capability supports direct connection to sampling ADC inputs, long PCB traces, or external filter capacitors without requiring isolation resistors-reducing component count and board space in compact sensor modules.

How does the input bias current of MAX4236BESA-T compare to other precision op amps, and why does it matter?

The MAX4236BESA-T has a typical input bias current of 1pA-among the lowest available for non-chopper, non-electrometer op amps. This is critical for interfacing with high-impedance sources like piezoelectric transducers (>1GΩ), electrochemical electrodes, or long cable runs, where even 10pA leakage would introduce significant offset error or degrade time constants in integrator circuits.