Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4556CPE

Overview

MAX4556CPE from Maxim Integrated is a CMOS analog force-sense switch IC configured as three independent SPDT switches for Kelvin sensing in automated test equipment (ATE). One switch serves as a high-current force path (6Ω max on-resistance), two as precision sense paths (60Ω max), and all support rail-to-rail analog signals from ±4.5V to ±20V supplies. It enables break-before-make switching with 275ns turn-on time and <0.25nA off-leakage at +25°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4556CPE datasheet, MAX4556CPE pinout, MAX4556CPE application, or MAX4556CPE equivalent, this device is selected for high-accuracy 4-wire voltage/current sourcing where force-path resistance matching (±1Ω), low charge injection (5pC), and guard-switching capability are critical - especially in calibrators, precision power supplies, and ADSL loopback systems.

Technical Context

The MAX4556CPE implements a dedicated force-sense architecture: one SPDT switch is optimized as a low-R_ON (6Ω) force channel with matched resistance (≤1Ω), while two SPDT switches serve as higher-R_ON (60Ω) sense/guard channels with 8Ω matching. All switches operate bidirectionally and handle rail-to-rail analog signals across ±4.5V to ±20V dual supplies or +9V to +40V single supply.

Its digital interface features TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds (0.8V/2.4V), enabling direct connection to microcontrollers or FPGA I/O. Break-before-make timing ensures no transient shorting during SPDT transitions, and the 275ns t_ON/t_OFF (±15V) supports high-speed ATE sequencing without signal corruption.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4556CPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0°C to +70°C operating range), with pin 1 designated as NO3 (Analog Guard Channel 1 Normally Open Terminal) and pin 16 as V+ (Positive Analog Supply Voltage Input).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar force-sense switch applications.

Compared with MAX4555CPE and ADG5412BRUZ, the MAX4556CPE uniquely integrates force/sense/guard separation, 1Ω R_ON matching, and guaranteed break-before-make - making it the only option qualified for metrology-grade ATE and calibrator designs demanding traceable 4-wire accuracy.

Availability

MAX4556CPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automated test equipment (ATE), precision power supplies, and calibrator systems requiring stable component supply with long-term manufacturability and consistent electrical performance.

Supply support for MAX4556CPE 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) designs high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for precision, power, and interface applications.

The MAX4554/MAX4555/MAX4556 family was engineered specifically for Kelvin sensing in automated test and calibration systems - delivering matched force/sense paths, rail-to-rail operation, and ultra-low leakage in a single IC.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous current rating for the force switch terminals of the MAX4556CPE?

The MAX4556CPE force switch terminals support ±100mA continuous current and ±300mA peak current (1ms, 10% duty cycle). This rating applies specifically to pins marked with asterisk (*) in the datasheet - such as NOF1*, COMF*, and associated force-channel terminals - and is validated under ±15V supply conditions with proper thermal management.

Does the MAX4556CPE support single-supply operation, and what is the minimum required V+ voltage?

Yes, the MAX4556CPE supports single-supply operation with V+ ranging from +9V to +40V and V− tied to GND. The minimum functional V+ is +9V - below which on-resistance increases significantly and rail-to-rail signal handling degrades. At +9V, the device maintains full 6Ω force R_ON spec and 0.25nA off-leakage at +25°C.

How does the break-before-make timing of the MAX4556CPE prevent signal corruption during SPDT transitions?

The MAX4556CPE guarantees a 21ns break-before-make interval between NC and NO contact closure. This prevents momentary shorting of force and sense paths during switching - critical in Kelvin applications where even nanosecond-scale shorts induce measurement glitches or damage sensitive DUTs. The timing is characterized across −40°C to +85°C and ±15V supplies.

Can the MAX4556CPE's guard terminals (NOG1, NOG2, COMG) be driven with active voltage sources, or are they passive only?

The MAX4556CPE guard terminals are fully bidirectional and rated for rail-to-rail analog signals - meaning they can be actively driven with voltage sources (e.g., buffered sense voltage) to implement driven-guard techniques. The 60Ω R_ON and <0.25nA leakage ensure minimal loading, and the terminals tolerate the full V− to V+ range, matching the sense path specifications.

What is the typical charge injection value of the MAX4556CPE force switch, and why does it matter in precision applications?

The MAX4556CPE force switch exhibits 5pC typical charge injection (±15V supplies). In precision applications like calibrator front-ends or ADC reference switching, this low value minimizes voltage glitches on high-impedance nodes - preventing settling errors that would otherwise degrade DC accuracy or increase acquisition time in µV-level measurements.