Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4604CSE+

Overview

MAX4604CSE+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad SPST analog switch with four normally closed (NC) channels, designed for rail-to-rail signal routing in precision analog systems. It delivers 5Ω max on-resistance, 0.5Ω max R_ON match between channels, and 2.5nA max off-leakage at +85°C, enabling low-distortion reed relay replacement in test equipment and PBX systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4604CSE+ datasheet, MAX4604CSE+ pinout, MAX4604CSE+ application, or MAX4604CSE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON flatness (0.5Ω max), dual-supply operation (±4.5V to ±20V), TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds, and SOIC-16 packaging with NC-switch topology.

Technical Context

The MAX4604CSE+ implements CMOS-based transmission-gate architecture with integrated level-shifting circuitry to support TTL/CMOS logic inputs across ±15V or +12V single-supply operation. Its internal protection diodes clamp signals exceeding V+ or V−, and logic control pins (IN1–IN4) directly drive complementary MOSFET pairs per channel without external buffering.

All four switches share common supply rails (V+, V−, GND, VL), with each COM–NC path exhibiting matched conduction characteristics over −40°C to +85°C. The device guarantees monotonic R_ON flatness and leakage performance under full rail-to-rail analog signal swing (±10V), making it suitable for bidirectional audio and instrumentation signal switching.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4604CSE+ is housed in a 16-pin narrow SOIC (SOICN) package, 3.9mm wide, with standard 1.27mm pitch and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or beveled corner; thermal pad is not present.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG444BRUZ and TS5A3157DCKR, the MAX4604CSE+ uniquely provides four independent NC switches with rail-to-rail ±20V capability, dedicated VL biasing, and guaranteed R_ON matching-making it irreplaceable in reed-relay-replacement and high-precision multiplexing where fail-safe closed-path behavior is required.

Availability

MAX4604CSE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automated test equipment, telecommunications infrastructure, and avionics signal conditioning requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX4604CSE+ 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX4604CSE+ belongs to Maxim's high-performance analog switch family, engineered specifically for low-R_ON, rail-to-rail signal integrity, and mechanical relay replacement in mission-critical test and telecom systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX4604CSE+?

The MAX4604CSE+ is specified for commercial temperature operation from 0°C to +70°C. This grade is validated per the MAX4604Cxx ordering suffix and matches the electrical characteristics in the datasheet's "ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS-Dual Supplies" and "-Single Supply" tables at ambient temperatures within that range. The MAX4604CSE+ does not meet extended −40°C to +85°C requirements - those are fulfilled by the MAX4604ESE+ variant.

Can the MAX4604CSE+ operate from a single +5V supply?

No, the MAX4604CSE+ cannot operate reliably from a single +5V supply. Its minimum single-supply voltage is +4.5V, but the device requires sufficient headroom for rail-to-rail analog signal handling and logic threshold compliance. At +5V, V− must be connected to GND, VL biased to 2.7V–5.5V, and analog signals constrained to 0V–5V. Full specification compliance (e.g., 5Ω R_ON, 2.5nA leakage) is only guaranteed at V+ ≥ +12V in single-supply mode per the datasheet test conditions.

Does the MAX4604CSE+ support bidirectional signal flow?

Yes, the MAX4604CSE+ supports fully bidirectional analog signal flow on all COM–NC paths. Each switch functions as a symmetric transmission gate with no intrinsic directionality - voltage and current may pass equally from COM to NC or NC to COM. This is confirmed by the "Rail-to-Rail® analog signals" specification, the absence of polarity markings on COM/NC pins, and the bidirectional leakage and R_ON test conditions cited in the Electrical Characteristics tables.

What is the purpose of the VL pin on the MAX4604CSE+?

VL is the logic supply input that powers the internal level-shifting and input buffer circuitry independently of the analog supplies (V+, V−). It accepts 2.7V to 5.5V and ensures correct TTL/CMOS logic interpretation (0.8V/2.4V thresholds) regardless of whether the device runs on ±15V dual supplies or +12V single supply. Leaving VL unconnected or mismatched to the control signal voltage violates the Absolute Maximum Ratings and risks undefined logic behavior in the MAX4604CSE+.

How does the MAX4604CSE+ handle overvoltage conditions on analog pins?

The MAX4604CSE+ incorporates internal ESD protection diodes from each COM, NC, and NO pin to V+ and V−. Per Absolute Maximum Ratings, signals exceeding V+ or falling below V− are clamped, but forward diode current must be limited to the device's maximum current rating (±100mA continuous). External series resistors or discrete diodes (as shown in Figure 1 of the datasheet) are recommended if sustained overvoltage beyond ±0.3V relative to rails is expected - especially during power-supply sequencing mismatches.