Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4480AXK

Overview

The MAX4480AXK from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, rail-to-rail output operational amplifier optimized for low-power, single-supply operation across -40°C to +125°C. It draws only 50µA quiescent current, operates from +2.5V to +5.5V, delivers 3.0mA output drive, and maintains unity-gain stability with up to 400pF capacitive load-making it suitable for sensor signal conditioning in automotive electronic ignition modules.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4480AXK datasheet, MAX4480AXK pinout, MAX4480AXK application, or MAX4480AXK equivalent, key selection criteria include its SC70-5 package footprint, 105dB open-loop gain at 5kΩ load, 0.005% THD with 100kΩ load, rail-to-rail output swing within 80mV of rails, and guaranteed operation over extended automotive temperature range.

Technical Context

The MAX4480AXK employs a BiCMOS input stage and rail-to-rail CMOS output stage, enabling full-swing operation into 5kΩ loads while maintaining low input bias current (±100pA typ) and high input resistance (1000MΩ). Its internal compensation ensures unity-gain stability without external components, even with 400pF capacitive loads.

It features no shutdown control pin-unlike the MAX4481-and relies on continuous operation with fixed supply current. The device's PSRR (92dB typ) and CMRR (105dB typ) are specified across the full -40°C to +125°C range, supporting robust performance in noisy automotive power environments.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX4480AXK is housed in a 5-pin SC70 package (outline 21-0076), measuring 2.0mm × 1.25mm × 0.95mm, with gull-wing leads compatible with standard reflow profiles and automated assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar single-channel, low-power, rail-to-rail op amp applications.

Compared with MAX4470AXK and MCP6001T-E/OT, the MAX4480AXK uniquely balances 50µA supply current, 105dB gain, 0.005% THD, and full -40°C to +125°C qualification-making it the only option among the three validated for AEC-Q100-compliant automotive signal chains requiring both precision and thermal robustness.

Availability

MAX4480AXK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic ignition modules, infrared receivers, single-supply zero-crossing detectors, and sensor signal detection circuits requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4480AXK 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, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX4480–MAX4483 family was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding automotive and industrial signal-conditioning applications requiring rail-to-rail operation, ultra-low quiescent current, and guaranteed performance from -40°C to +125°C.

FAQ

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4480AXK can drive without oscillation?

The MAX4480AXK is unity-gain stable with capacitive loads up to 400pF, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table and Typical Operating Characteristics (Figure MAX4480 toc19). This allows direct interfacing with ADC input capacitors, long PCB traces, or sensor junction capacitances without requiring external isolation resistors or compensation networks. Exceeding 400pF may cause phase margin degradation and overshoot, as shown in Figure MAX4480 toc22.

Does the MAX4480AXK have a shutdown pin?

No, the MAX4480AXK does not include a shutdown pin. Shutdown functionality is exclusive to the MAX4481 variant (which uses a 6-pin SC70 package and SHDN pin). The MAX4480AXK operates continuously whenever powered; its 50µA quiescent current is fixed and cannot be reduced via external control. This simplifies design for always-on applications but precludes dynamic power gating.

What is the guaranteed input common-mode voltage range for the MAX4480AXK?

The MAX4480AXK guarantees an input common-mode voltage range from VSS to VDD − 1.3V at TA = +25°C, and from VSS to VDD − 1.4V over the full −40°C to +125°C range. This means with a +5V supply, inputs can be as high as +3.6V (min) while maintaining specified performance-enabling direct connection to resistive dividers or buffered references without level shifting.

Is the MAX4480AXK RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX4480AXK+T suffix indicates a lead(Pb)-free and RoHS-compliant package, as explicitly stated in the Ordering Information table. The device meets EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements and is compatible with standard Pb-free reflow soldering profiles. The "+" symbol in the package code denotes RoHS compliance per Maxim's packaging nomenclature.

What is the typical output voltage swing for the MAX4480AXK when loaded with 5kΩ?

At TA = +25°C and VDD = +5V, the MAX4480AXK delivers a typical output voltage swing of VSS + 0.02V to VDD − 0.03V into a 5kΩ load-i.e., 20mV above ground and 30mV below VDD. Over the full −40°C to +125°C range, the guaranteed swing is VSS + 0.10V to VDD − 0.20V (100mV above ground and 200mV below VDD), as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table under VOL and VOH parameters.