Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4523EPE

Overview

MAX4523EPE from Maxim Integrated is a quad SPST analog switch with two normally open (NO) and two normally closed (NC) channels, designed for rail-to-rail signal routing in low-voltage systems. It features 100Ω max on-resistance at ±5V supplies, 4Ω max channel matching, 12Ω max on-resistance flatness, and <1µW power consumption. It supports dual supplies (±2V to ±6V) or single +2.7V–+12V operation and is used in audio signal routing and test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4523EPE datasheet, MAX4523EPE pinout, MAX4523EPE application, or MAX4523EPE equivalent, key selection criteria include its mixed NO/NC configuration, break-before-make timing (5–20 ns), ESD robustness (>2kV), TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds, and compatibility with DG211/DG212/DG213 footprints.

Technical Context

The MAX4523EPE implements four independent CMOS transmission gates-two with NO logic (IN1/IN4 control NO1/NO4) and two with NC logic (IN2/IN3 control NC2/NC3)-enabling flexible signal path selection. Its internal level translators drive N- and P-channel MOSFETs with complementary gate signals referenced to V+ and V−, supporting true rail-to-rail analog swing without ground reference.

It uses reverse-biased ESD diodes between each analog pin and V+/V− to clamp overvoltage, with leakage current flowing exclusively to supply rails-not GND-ensuring predictable off-isolation (>−90 dB at 100 kHz) and minimal crosstalk (<−90 dB). Break-before-make timing is guaranteed only for the MAX4523 variant, preventing momentary shorting during channel switching.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4523EPE is supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP (P16-1) package with 0.300″ wide body, through-hole mounting, and standard 0.1″ pin pitch. Pin 1 is NC (no connection); pins 2 and 5 are V− and GND respectively; pins 11 and 13 are V+ and COM2; pins 1, 8, 9, and 16 serve as logic inputs IN1–IN4.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX4522EPE (NO-only) and ADG1412BRUZ (higher-performance but non-pin-compatible), the MAX4523EPE uniquely delivers mixed NO/NC functionality in a legacy-compatible DIP package-enabling both default-open and default-closed signal paths without redesign.

Availability

MAX4523EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-operated equipment, test equipment, avionics, and audio signal routing requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX4523EPE 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX452x family was designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power analog signal routing in space-constrained and energy-sensitive systems-emphasizing rail-to-rail operation, low leakage, and robust ESD tolerance.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX4523EPE?

The MAX4523EPE is rated for −40°C to +85°C operation, as indicated by the "E" suffix in its part number. This extended industrial temperature grade ensures reliable performance in demanding environments such as automotive test gear, portable medical devices, and outdoor instrumentation where thermal cycling occurs. All electrical specifications-including on-resistance, leakage, and switching times-are fully characterized across this range.

Does MAX4523EPE support single-supply operation?

Yes, MAX4523EPE supports single-supply operation from +2.7V to +12V with V− tied to GND. It is fully specified at +2.7V, delivering 600Ω max on-resistance and valid TTL/CMOS logic thresholds. This makes MAX4523EPE suitable for low-voltage battery-powered systems like handheld data loggers and wireless sensor nodes where dual-supply generation is impractical.

How does the break-before-make timing work in MAX4523EPE?

The MAX4523EPE guarantees break-before-make timing only between its NO and NC pairs-specifically, when toggling IN2/IN3 to switch NC2/NC3, or IN1/IN4 to switch NO1/NO4. The t_BBM is 5–20 ns (at +25°C, V+ = +5.5V), ensuring no overlap between conduction states. This prevents momentary shorts in safety-critical signal routing, such as selecting between primary and backup sensor inputs in avionics systems.

Can MAX4523EPE handle bipolar analog signals?

Yes, MAX4523EPE handles true bipolar analog signals when powered with dual supplies (±2V to ±6V). With V+ = +5V and V− = −5V, it passes signals from −4.5V to +4.5V rail-to-rail. Internal ESD diodes clamp excursions beyond V+/V−, and leakage remains below 10nA at +85°C-making MAX4523EPE appropriate for op-amp-based signal conditioning stages in industrial control and scientific instrumentation.

Is MAX4523EPE pin-compatible with industry-standard analog switches?

Yes, MAX4523EPE is pin-compatible with DG211, DG212, and DG213 analog switches in the same 16-pin DIP package. Its pin assignments for IN_, COM_, NO_, NC_, V+, V−, GND, and N.C. match those parts exactly-allowing direct replacement in existing designs without layout modification. This compatibility simplifies upgrades to lower on-resistance, improved leakage, and enhanced ESD robustness while maintaining legacy firmware and schematics.