Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4521EPE

Overview

MAX4521EPE from Maxim Integrated is a quad, low-voltage, normally closed (NC) SPST analog switch IC designed for precision signal routing in rail-to-rail analog paths. It features 100Ω max on-resistance (at ±5V), 4Ω max channel-to-channel on-resistance matching, <1µW quiescent power, and operates from ±2V to ±6V dual supplies or +2V to +12V single supply. It is used in battery-powered data acquisition systems where low leakage (<1nA at +25°C) and TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4521EPE datasheet, MAX4521EPE pinout, MAX4521EPE application, or MAX4521EPE equivalent, key selection criteria include NC configuration, -40°C to +85°C extended temperature rating, 16-pin plastic DIP package (P16-1), rail-to-rail signal handling, and compatibility with industry-standard DG211/DG212/DG213 footprints.

Technical Context

The MAX4521EPE implements four independent CMOS SPST switches with normally closed topology, each driven by separate digital inputs (IN1–IN4) controlling COM–NC paths. Its internal architecture uses complementary N- and P-channel MOSFETs with phase-inverted gate drive referenced to V+ and V−, enabling true rail-to-rail analog conduction without ground reference.

It supports bipolar operation (±2V to ±6V) and single-supply mode (V− tied to GND), with logic thresholds fixed at +0.8V (low) and +2.4V (high) - ensuring robust TTL/CMOS compatibility across supply configurations. ESD protection exceeds 2kV per Method 3015.7, and analog leakage is dominated by reverse-biased ESD diodes between signal pins and V+/V−.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4521EPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (P16-1), 0.300" wide, with through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is NC (not connected); pins 2 and 5 are V− and GND respectively; pins 11 and 13 are V+ and N.C.; pins 1–4 and 9–12 serve as IN/COM/NC terminals arranged per functional diagram.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4521EPE, MAX4522EPE offers identical specs except logic polarity and switch state, while ADG452BRZ trades higher RON for broader temperature coverage and different packaging - neither is pin-compatible, but both serve overlapping analog routing roles in industrial and aerospace contexts.

Availability

MAX4521EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-operated equipment, avionics subsystems, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4521EPE 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 fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer markets.

The MAX4521/MAX4522/MAX4523 family was engineered for low-voltage, low-leakage analog signal routing in portable and ruggedized systems - emphasizing rail-to-rail operation, logic compatibility, and robust ESD tolerance without sacrificing switching precision.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable V+ to V− differential voltage for MAX4521EPE?

The absolute maximum V+ to V− differential voltage for MAX4521EPE is 13.0V. Exceeding this - even momentarily due to supply overshoot or noise spikes - risks permanent damage. For example, ±6V supplies with ±10% tolerance reach 13.2V and must be derated. Designers should verify worst-case supply tolerances and transient behavior before finalizing power architecture for MAX4521EPE.

Does MAX4521EPE support single-supply operation, and what is its minimum voltage?

Yes, MAX4521EPE supports single-supply operation with V− tied to GND and V+ ranging from +2V to +12V. Its minimum functional voltage is +2.7V (fully specified), delivering 600Ω max on-resistance at +2.7V. At +2V, operation is possible but not guaranteed per datasheet specifications - designers should validate performance in-system if operating below +2.7V.

How does the NC configuration of MAX4521EPE affect system-level fail-safe behavior?

MAX4521EPE's normally closed configuration means all four switches conduct when digital inputs (IN1–IN4) are low or unpowered. This provides inherent fail-safe continuity - e.g., in a data logger, sensor signals remain connected to the ADC during MCU reset or power brownout. To break the path, a defined logic high must be actively driven, making it ideal for safety-critical monitoring where signal loss must be intentional and controlled.

Can MAX4521EPE handle AC signals exceeding its DC supply rails?

No - MAX4521EPE cannot reliably pass AC signals whose peak amplitude exceeds the V+ to V− range. Internal ESD diodes clamp signals beyond V+ or below V−, causing distortion or excessive leakage. For example, with V+ = +5V and V− = −5V, the analog signal must stay within ±4.5V to avoid forward-conducting clamps. Signal swing must be strictly bounded by the supply rails for linear operation.

Is MAX4521EPE pin-compatible with DG211, and what does that mean for PCB layout?

Yes, MAX4521EPE is pin-compatible with DG211 in the 16-pin DIP package (P16-1). This means identical footprint, pad layout, and terminal mapping - allowing direct replacement without PCB modification. However, designers must verify logic polarity (DG211 is NO, MAX4521EPE is NC) and confirm timing/performance alignment, as electrical specs differ slightly (e.g., RON, leakage).