Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4600EPE

Overview

MAX4600EPE from Maxim Integrated is a dual SPST CMOS analog switch with one normally closed (NC) and one normally open (NO) channel, designed for rail-to-rail signal routing in precision analog systems. It delivers 1.25Ω max on-resistance, 0.25Ω max R_ON match between channels, and 2.5nA max off-leakage at +85°C, enabling low-distortion switching in automatic test equipment and communication interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4600EPE datasheet, MAX4600EPE pinout, MAX4600EPE application, or MAX4600EPE equivalent, key selection criteria include its ±4.5V to ±20V dual-supply or +4.5V to +36V single-supply operation, TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds, and guaranteed R_ON flatness of 0.3Ω over the full signal range.

Technical Context

The MAX4600EPE integrates two independent SPST switches - one NC and one NO - each controlled by separate digital inputs (IN1, IN2) with defined logic sense. Its CMOS architecture supports bidirectional rail-to-rail analog signals up to ±10V with minimal distortion, enabled by matched and flat on-resistance across temperature and voltage.

It features internal protection diodes on analog pins, operates with VL = +5V logic supply independent of analog rails, and maintains specified leakage (<0.5nA typical COM off-leakage) and dynamic performance (t_ON = 150ns, t_OFF = 200ns) under both single- and dual-supply configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4600EPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), rated for –40°C to +85°C operation. Pin layout follows standard SOIC/DIP footprint with dedicated analog supply (V+, V–), logic supply (VL), ground (GND), and isolated control/analog terminals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG1419BRUZ and TS5A23157DGSR, the MAX4600EPE uniquely supports both wide-range single-supply (+4.5V to +36V) and dual-supply (±4.5V to ±20V) operation while retaining NC/NO duality - making it the only option among the three suitable for industrial test and telecom line-card designs requiring high-voltage tolerance and mechanical relay replacement.

Availability

MAX4600EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, communications infrastructure, PBX line cards, and reed-relay-replacement designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX4600EPE 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 computing markets.

The MAX4580/MAX4590/MAX4600 family was engineered for high-fidelity analog signal routing in environments demanding low distortion, high reliability, and wide supply flexibility - directly addressing limitations of electromechanical relays in automated test and telecom switching.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX4600EPE?

The MAX4600EPE is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C. This extended industrial temperature range is confirmed in the Ordering Information table and Absolute Maximum Ratings section of the datasheet. The 'E' suffix in MAX4600EPE explicitly denotes the –40°C to +85°C grade, distinguishing it from the 'C' grade (0°C to +70°C). Thermal performance metrics such as on-resistance and leakage current are fully characterized across this range.

Does MAX4600EPE support single-supply operation?

Yes, MAX4600EPE supports single-supply operation from +4.5V to +36V. In this configuration, V– is connected to GND, and analog signals swing from GND to V+. The datasheet provides complete electrical characteristics for V+ = +12V, V– = 0V, including R_ON = 3Ω max, leakage <0.5nA, and logic thresholds compatible with +5V CMOS. No external level-shifting is required.

What is the function of the VL pin on MAX4600EPE?

The VL pin on MAX4600EPE is the logic supply input, internally decoupled from analog supplies. It must be connected to +5V (typical) to power the digital control circuitry. VL allows independent logic-level definition regardless of V+ or V– voltage, enabling TTL/CMOS compatibility even when analog rails operate at ±15V or +24V. Leaving VL unconnected will disable switching functionality.

How are the NC and NO channels configured in MAX4600EPE?

MAX4600EPE contains one normally closed (NC) switch and one normally open (NO) switch. When IN1 = LOW, COM1 connects to NC1; when IN1 = HIGH, COM1 connects to NO1. Similarly, IN2 controls COM2–NC2/NO2. This complementary configuration is explicitly defined in the General Description and Pin Configurations section, differentiating MAX4600EPE from MAX4580EPE (dual NC) and MAX4590EPE (dual NO).

Can MAX4600EPE handle bipolar analog signals?

Yes, MAX4600EPE handles bipolar analog signals when operated from dual supplies (e.g., V+ = +15V, V– = –15V). Signals at COM, NC, or NO pins may swing from V– to V+ (–15V to +15V), fully supporting rail-to-rail operation. The device's internal protection diodes clamp excursions beyond rails, and all key parameters - including R_ON, leakage, and flatness - are specified across this full range.