Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4516CPA

Overview

MAX4516CPA from Maxim Integrated is a normally open (NO), single-pole/single-throw (SPST), CMOS analog switch optimized for low-voltage dual-supply operation. It delivers 20Ω on-resistance at ±5V supplies, supports rail-to-rail analog signals from ±1V to ±6V, and exhibits only 1nA off-leakage at +25°C - enabling precision signal routing in battery-powered instrumentation and portable audio systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4516CPA datasheet, MAX4516CPA pinout, MAX4516CPA application, or MAX4516CPA equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed on-resistance flatness (6Ω), fast switching (t_ON = 100ns), low charge injection (20pC max), and compatibility with CMOS logic referenced to V+ - all critical for low-distortion, low-power multiplexing in space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MAX4516CPA uses a dual-supply CMOS architecture with V+ and V− pins powering both analog switches and internal logic-level translators. Its NO configuration means the COM–NO path is open when IN is low, and closed when IN is high - with no ground reference required.

Internal ESD diodes clamp analog pins to V+ and V−, making leakage current highly dependent on signal voltage relative to supply rails. All analog leakage flows between signal pins and V+/V−, not across the switch terminals - a design feature that enables bidirectional signal flow with matched performance on COM, NO, and NC pins.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4516CPA is packaged in an 8-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard DIP convention (counterclockwise from top-left).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar SPST analog switch applications.

Compared with MAX4516CSA, the MAX4516CPA offers identical analog performance but enables through-hole prototyping and thermal relief via DIP leads; versus MAX4514CPA, it delivers lower R_ON, tighter flatness, and true rail-to-rail operation - justifying dual-supply complexity in precision applications.

Availability

MAX4516CPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-operated equipment, audio/video signal routing, and low-voltage data-acquisition systems requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (0°C to +70°C).

Supply support for MAX4516CPA 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, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX4516CPA belongs to Maxim's precision analog switch product line, designed specifically for low-leakage, low-distortion signal routing in dual-supply portable and instrumentation systems - emphasizing robustness under varying supply conditions and minimal impact on sensitive analog nodes.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage range supported by the MAX4516CPA?

The MAX4516CPA operates continuously with dual supplies from ±1V up to ±6V. Absolute maximum ratings allow V+ up to +13V and V− down to −0.3V, but guaranteed performance is specified only for ±4.5V to ±5.5V. Exceeding ±6V risks permanent damage and invalidates parametric guarantees - always observe the ±6V operational limit for reliable MAX4516CPA functionality.

Is the MAX4516CPA pin-compatible with the MAX4517CPA?

Yes, the MAX4516CPA and MAX4517CPA share identical pinouts and package dimensions in the 8-pin DIP format. The only functional difference is switch state: MAX4516CPA is normally open (NO), while MAX4517CPA is normally closed (NC). This allows direct substitution in layouts where logic polarity can be inverted - no PCB changes are needed when swapping between these two variants.

Does the MAX4516CPA require a ground connection?

No, the MAX4516CPA has no ground pin. Its digital input is referenced to V+, and analog signal range spans from V− to V+. This eliminates the need for a system ground reference, simplifying designs in isolated or floating-supply environments - a key advantage confirmed in the MAX4516CPA datasheet's Pin Description section.

What is the typical charge injection value for the MAX4516CPA, and why does it matter?

The MAX4516CPA specifies a maximum charge injection of 20pC. This parameter quantifies the transient voltage glitch induced on a switched capacitive node (e.g., ADC input capacitor) when the switch turns off. At 20pC, and assuming a 1000pF load, the resulting ∆VOUT is only 20mV - critical for maintaining accuracy in sample-and-hold and switched-capacitor filter applications using the MAX4516CPA.

Can the MAX4516CPA be used with a single positive supply?

The MAX4516CPA is designed for dual-supply operation and is not characterized for single-supply use. While it may function with V− tied to ground and V+ at +5V, leakage, R_ON, and switching behavior degrade outside the ±1V to ±6V dual-rail specification. For single-supply systems, Maxim recommends the pin-compatible MAX4514CPA - not the MAX4516CPA - to ensure guaranteed performance.