Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4602CWE

Overview

MAX4602CWE from Maxim Integrated is a quad single-pole single-throw (SPST) normally open (NO) analog switch IC designed for rail-to-rail signal routing in precision analog systems. It delivers 2.5Ω maximum on-resistance, 0.5Ω maximum on-resistance match between channels, and 2.5nA maximum off-leakage at +85°C, operating from +4.5V to +36V single supply or ±4.5V to ±20V dual supplies. It is used in audio-signal routing, automatic test equipment, and PBX systems where low distortion and mechanical relay replacement are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4602CWE datasheet, MAX4602CWE pinout, MAX4602CWE application, or MAX4602CWE equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON flatness (≤0.5Ω), TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds (+0.8V/+2.4V), 16-pin Wide SO package compatibility, and verified performance across -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The MAX4602CWE implements four independent CMOS SPST NO switches with matched channel characteristics and rail-to-rail analog signal handling capability. Its control architecture uses TTL/CMOS-compatible digital inputs referenced to VL (logic supply), enabling direct interface with +5V microcontrollers even under ±15V analog supply conditions.

All four switches share common analog supply pins (V+, V−) and ground (GND), with dedicated COM and NO terminals per channel and individual logic inputs (IN1–IN4). The device guarantees monotonic on-resistance behavior over its full specified signal range (±10V with dual supply, 0V to +10V with single +12V supply), ensuring minimal harmonic distortion in audio and instrumentation paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4602CWE is housed in a 16-pin Wide SO (SOIC-W) package with 0.3-inch body width and standard 1.27mm pitch. Pin 1 is located at the top-left corner adjacent to the index notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG1412BRUZ and TS5A3157DCKR, the MAX4602CWE uniquely combines guaranteed R_ON matching, rail-to-rail operation up to ±20V, and TTL/CMOS logic compatibility in a quad configuration - making it optimal for industrial ATE, telecom, and avionics where channel consistency and wide supply flexibility are mandatory.

Availability

MAX4602CWE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automatic test equipment, audio-signal routing, and PBX/PABX systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX4602CWE 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 applications.

The MAX4601/MAX4602/MAX4603 family was engineered to replace electromechanical relays in high-reliability analog signal routing, emphasizing low on-resistance, tight channel matching, and robust operation across wide supply and temperature ranges.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog signal voltage range supported by the MAX4602CWE?

The MAX4602CWE supports rail-to-rail analog signals from V− to V+. With dual supplies of ±15V, this allows ±10V signal handling; with single +12V supply, it supports 0V to +10V. Absolute maximum ratings permit V+ up to +36V and V− down to −44V relative to GND, but operational signal range remains bounded by the supply rails applied to V+ and V−.

Does the MAX4602CWE require a separate logic supply voltage, and what is its purpose?

Yes, the MAX4602CWE requires VL (pin 12) as a dedicated logic supply, typically +5V. VL sets internal logic threshold references independently of analog supplies, enabling reliable TTL/CMOS-compatible switching (0.8V low / 2.4V high) even when V+ and V− are ±15V. This eliminates level-shifting circuitry and ensures noise-immune digital control.

Can the MAX4602CWE be used in a single-supply configuration, and how should V− be connected?

Yes, the MAX4602CWE operates in single-supply mode: connect V− (pin 4) to GND (pin 5), apply V+ (pin 13) between +4.5V and +36V, and use VL = +5V. In this configuration, analog signals swing from 0V to V+ − 2V (e.g., 0V to +10V with +12V supply), maintaining rail-to-rail functionality relative to the applied supplies.

What is the significance of the guaranteed 0.5Ω R_ON match specification for the MAX4602CWE?

The 0.5Ω maximum R_ON match (ΔR_ON = R_ON(MAX) − R_ON(MIN)) ensures that all four switches exhibit nearly identical conduction resistance across temperature and signal voltage. This is critical in applications like multi-channel data acquisition or balanced audio routing, where mismatched R_ON would cause gain errors or channel imbalance.

How does the MAX4602CWE compare to mechanical relays in automatic test equipment applications?

The MAX4602CWE replaces mechanical relays in ATE by offering 160ns switching speed (vs. milliseconds), no contact wear, 2.5nA off-leakage (vs. pA-level relay leakage), and immunity to vibration/magnetic fields. Its 2.5Ω R_ON and 0.5Ω match ensure repeatable signal path accuracy, while single/dual supply flexibility simplifies system power architecture compared to relay driver circuits.