Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4377TEUA

Overview

MAX4377TEUA from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, high-side current-sense amplifier with fixed +20V/V gain, designed for precision battery-current monitoring in space-constrained systems. It operates from +3V to +28V supply, supports 0V to +28V input common-mode voltage independent of VCC, delivers ±0.5% typical full-scale accuracy at +25°C, and features buffered 2mA-output voltage output - enabling direct interface to ADCs in notebook computers and smart battery packs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4377TEUA datasheet, MAX4377TEUA pinout, MAX4377TEUA application, or MAX4377TEUA equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20V/V internal gain, SOT23-5 package footprint, automotive-grade -40°C to +125°C operation, and ability to sense current without disrupting ground return paths in battery-charger control loops.

Technical Context

The MAX4377TEUA implements a high-impedance current-sense architecture with an internal current mirror and fixed-gain amplifier stage (AV = +20V/V), eliminating external gain-setting resistors. Its input common-mode range extends from 0V to +28V regardless of supply voltage, enabling accurate sensing during deep battery discharge.

It uses BiCMOS process technology to achieve 2MHz bandwidth at gain = +20V/V, 1mA typical supply current per amplifier, and <1µs saturation recovery time - making it suitable for real-time current feedback in switching regulator-based power supplies and battery protection IC interfaces.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4377TEUA is housed in a RoHS-compliant 5-pin SOT23 package (package code U5+1, outline 21-0057), with 0.95mm pitch, 2.9mm × 1.6mm body, and thermal pad not connected internally.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4376TEUA, MAX4377TEUA adds automotive temperature qualification and extended reliability testing; compared with INA240A1D, it offers smaller SOT23-5 footprint and lower supply current but narrower common-mode range and no built-in EMI filtering.

Availability

MAX4377TEUA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, battery chargers, and automotive current-detection systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4377TEUA 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/MAX4377/MAX4378 family was designed specifically for high-accuracy, high-side current sensing in battery-powered and automotive systems where ground-path integrity and wide common-mode operation are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum common-mode voltage supported by the MAX4377TEUA?

The MAX4377TEUA supports a common-mode input voltage range of 0V to +28V, fully independent of its supply voltage (VCC). This allows it to accurately sense current even when the battery voltage drops below system ground or exceeds VCC - a key requirement for deep-discharge monitoring in smart battery packs and automotive start-stop systems. The device remains functional down to 0V common-mode, though high-accuracy performance is specified from +2V onward.

Does the MAX4377TEUA require external gain-setting resistors?

No, the MAX4377TEUA does not require external gain-setting resistors. It integrates a fixed +20V/V gain amplifier stage, eliminating resistor tolerance, layout parasitics, and thermal drift errors associated with discrete gain networks. This simplifies design, reduces BOM count, and improves long-term stability - especially important in compact, thermally variable environments like portable electronics and automotive ECUs where the MAX4377TEUA is commonly deployed.

Can the MAX4377TEUA be used in bidirectional current sensing applications?

The MAX4377TEUA itself is unidirectional and outputs only positive voltage for positive current flow (RS+ > RS−). However, it can be used in bidirectional systems when paired with a second device or external circuitry - for example, the dual-channel MAX4377 is explicitly referenced in the datasheet for bidirectional monitoring (Figure 2). For true single-chip bidirectional sensing, designers should consider alternatives like the MAX4008 or dedicated bidirectional amplifiers, as the MAX4377TEUA's architecture does not support negative output swing or polarity reversal.

What is the output drive capability of the MAX4377TEUA?

The MAX4377TEUA provides a buffered voltage output capable of sourcing up to 2mA into a ground-referenced load. This allows direct connection to standard SAR or delta-sigma ADC inputs without additional op-amp buffering. Its low 5Ω output resistance and 2MHz bandwidth ensure minimal signal distortion and fast settling - critical for accurate sampling in battery fuel gauging and real-time power management applications where the MAX4377TEUA is frequently employed.

Is the MAX4377TEUA RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX4377TEUA is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, indicated by the "+" suffix in its package code (U5+1) and confirmed in Maxim's ordering information and package documentation. It adheres to JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 and supports standard reflow profiles up to +260°C peak temperature. This compliance ensures compatibility with modern automated assembly processes and environmental regulations for global electronics manufacturing.