Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4376FASA

Overview

MAX4376FASA from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, high-side current-sense amplifier with fixed +50V/V gain, 2MHz bandwidth, ±0.5% typical full-scale accuracy at +25°C, and 0V to +28V input common-mode range independent of supply voltage-designed for precision battery-charger current monitoring in automotive and portable systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4376FASA datasheet, MAX4376FASA pinout, MAX4376FASA application, or MAX4376FASA equivalent, key selection criteria include its gain-accuracy over temperature, buffered 2mA output drive capability, AEC-Q100-compliant operation from −40°C to +125°C, and compatibility with low-inductance sense resistors in high-frequency power paths.

Technical Context

The MAX4376FASA uses a BiCMOS-based current-mirror architecture to convert differential sense voltage (V_RS+ − V_RS−) into a ground-referenced buffered output voltage proportional to load current. Its input stage operates with zero dependence on V_CC, enabling accurate sensing down to 0V common-mode-even during deep battery discharge.

It features internal gain-setting (no external resistors), rail-to-rail output swing limited by V_CC − 0.9V (min) and 25mV (max low-level), and stable operation with capacitive loads up to 1000pF. Power-up time is 2µs, saturation recovery is 1µs, and reverse recovery is 1µs-critical for fast-switching charger control loops.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4376FASA is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (package code S8+2, outline 21-0041), with exposed pad not electrically connected. Thermal resistance θ_JA = 125°C/W (multi-layer board), supporting continuous operation at full ambient temperature range.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-side current-sense amplifier applications.

Compared with MAX4376FASA, INA240A1QDRQ1 offers broader common-mode range and higher speed but sacrifices gain flexibility and automotive qualification, while MAX4080FASA+ matches gain and package but trades AEC-Q100 compliance for marginally better AC performance-making MAX4376FASA optimal for cost-sensitive, temperature-critical automotive current monitoring where ±0.5% accuracy at +25°C is essential.

Availability

MAX4376FASA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery chargers, automotive load monitors, and portable-system fuel gauges requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4376FASA 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and computing applications.

The MAX4376 family delivers high-side current sensing with integrated gain and buffered outputs-designed specifically for space-constrained, high-reliability systems where ground-path integrity and wide common-mode operation are critical.

FAQ

What is the gain configuration of MAX4376FASA and how is it implemented?

The MAX4376FASA has a fixed +50V/V gain implemented entirely internally using laser-trimmed thin-film resistors and matched current mirrors-no external gain-setting components are required. This architecture ensures stable gain over temperature and time, with ±0.5% typical accuracy at +25°C and ±2.5% over the full −40°C to +125°C range. The 'F' suffix in MAX4376FASA explicitly denotes the +50V/V variant per Maxim's ordering convention.

Can MAX4376FASA operate with a supply voltage lower than the sensed common-mode voltage?

Yes, MAX4376FASA supports a 0V to +28V input common-mode range that is fully independent of V_CC. It can accurately sense current on a +24V battery rail while powered from a separate +5V supply, or monitor a deeply discharged 0V battery terminal with V_CC = +3V. This decoupling eliminates ground-loop errors and preserves system ground integrity-critical in battery-powered and automotive applications.

What is the maximum capacitive load MAX4376FASA can drive without oscillation?

MAX4376FASA is stable driving capacitive loads up to 1000pF, as verified in the datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table under "Maximum Capacitive Load". This allows direct connection to ADC input capacitors, RC filters, or long PCB traces without external isolation resistors. For loads exceeding 1000pF, a series 10Ω damping resistor at the output is recommended to maintain phase margin.

Does MAX4376FASA require a minimum sense voltage to maintain specified accuracy?

Yes-while MAX4376FASA functions down to 0V common-mode, its highest accuracy (±0.5% total output error) is guaranteed only when V_SENSE ≥ 10mV and V_RS+ ≥ 2.0V. At V_SENSE = 6.25mV (1/16 of full scale), total error increases to ±7%. For precision applications like fuel gauging, design should target V_SENSE ≥ 20mV to stay within ±1% error across temperature.

Is MAX4376FASA pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX4376 family?

Yes-MAX4376FASA shares identical 8-pin SOIC pinout and footprint with MAX4376TASA+ (+20V/V) and MAX4376HASA+ (+100V/V), enabling gain scalability without PCB redesign. All three variants use the same V_CC, GND, OUT, R_S+, and R_S− pin assignments; pins 6–8 are N.C. in all cases. This allows hardware reuse across different current-sensing ranges in production variants.