Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4603CWE+

Overview

MAX4603CWE+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad SPST analog switch IC with two normally open (NO) and two normally closed (NC) channels, 4Ω max on-resistance at +25°C, ±15V dual-supply or +12V single-supply operation, and rail-to-rail analog signal handling up to ±10V - used in audio-signal routing and PBX system switching where low distortion and leakage <0.5nA at +85°C are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4603CWE+ datasheet, MAX4603CWE+ pinout, MAX4603CWE+ application, or MAX4603CWE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON match ≤0.4Ω between channels, 170ns typical turn-off time, TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds, and 16-pin Wide SO package compatibility with automated PCB assembly.

Technical Context

The MAX4603CWE+ implements four independent CMOS transmission gates in a single die, each with separate digital control inputs (IN1–IN4) and dedicated COM/NO/NC terminals. Its architecture supports bidirectional analog signal flow, flat on-resistance (≤0.4Ω variation over ±10V signal range), and internal ESD protection >2000V per Method 3015.7.

It operates across dual supplies (±4.5V to ±20V) or single supply (+4.5V to +36V), with logic supply (VL) decoupled at 5V. Input thresholds (0.8V low / 2.4V high) ensure robust interfacing with TTL/CMOS controllers without level-shifting circuitry.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4603CWE+ uses a 16-pin Wide SO (SOIC-W) package, 7.5mm body width, 1.27mm pitch, RoHS-compliant, suitable for reflow soldering and automated optical inspection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG1412BRUZ and TS5A3157DCKR, the MAX4603CWE+ uniquely delivers integrated NO/NC duality in a single wide-SO package with industrial-grade voltage range and leakage performance - making it irreplaceable in telecom and ATE designs requiring both switching polarities and high-voltage tolerance.

Availability

MAX4603CWE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio-signal routing, PBX line-card design, and automatic test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MAX4603CWE+ 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 MAX460x family was designed specifically for high-fidelity, high-voltage analog switching in telecom infrastructure and automated test systems - emphasizing R_ON matching, rail-to-rail operation, and robust ESD tolerance.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX4603CWE+?

The MAX4603CWE+ is rated for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as indicated by the 'C' grade suffix in its part number. This commercial-grade temperature range suits indoor telecom equipment, benchtop test instruments, and non-military avionics subsystems where environmental stress is controlled. The device's leakage and R_ON specifications are fully guaranteed across this span, with testing performed per JEDEC JESD22-A108.

Can the MAX4603CWE+ operate from a single +5V supply?

No - the MAX4603CWE+ requires minimum ±4.5V dual supply or +4.5V single supply. At +5V, the internal charge pump cannot reliably drive the MOSFET gates to achieve specified R_ON ≤4Ω or leakage <0.5nA. Data sheet Electrical Characteristics confirm valid operation starts at +4.5V, with typical R_ON rising sharply below that threshold. For +5V-only systems, consider the MAX4617 or ADG16xx families instead.

How does the MAX4603CWE+ handle logic-level translation between 3.3V controllers and ±15V analog rails?

The MAX4603CWE+ uses a dedicated VL pin (pin 12) referenced to 5V, decoupling logic thresholds from analog supplies. Its IN pins accept 0.8V/2.4V TTL/CMOS thresholds regardless of V+/V− values - so a 3.3V FPGA I/O can directly drive IN1–IN4 without level shifters, while V+ = +15V and V− = −15V remain fully operational. This separation is explicitly verified in the "ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS-Dual Supplies" table.

Is the MAX4603CWE+ pin-compatible with the MAX4601CWE+ or MAX4602CWE+?

Yes - all three variants (MAX4601CWE+, MAX4602CWE+, MAX4603CWE+) share identical 16-pin Wide SO footprints and pinouts. Only the internal switch configuration differs: MAX4601 has four NC, MAX4602 has four NO, and MAX4603 has two NO + two NC. PCB layout, decoupling, and routing are fully interchangeable; only firmware logic mapping changes to match the NO/NC behavior per channel.

What is the maximum continuous current rating per switch in the MAX4603CWE+?

The MAX4603CWE+ supports ±200mA continuous current through any COM/NO or COM/NC path, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This rating applies across the full temperature range and supply conditions. Exceeding it risks thermal runaway or parametric shift; derating is recommended above +70°C ambient. Peak pulsed current (1ms, 10% duty cycle) is ±300mA - useful for short-duration test pulses in ATE applications.