Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4668CPE+

Overview

MAX4668CPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual, normally open (NO), single-pole single-throw (SPST) CMOS analog switch with 2.5Ω maximum on-resistance, ±4.5V to ±20V dual-supply or +4.5V to +36V single-supply operation, and rail-to-rail signal handling up to ±20V. It delivers matched on-resistance (≤0.4Ω), flat on-resistance (≤0.5Ω), and <5nA off-leakage at +85°C-ideal for precision reed relay replacement in test equipment and audio-signal routing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4668CPE+ datasheet, MAX4668CPE+ pinout, MAX4668CPE+ application, or MAX4668CPE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed R_ON matching across channels, TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds (+0.8V/+2.4V), break-before-make absence (as it is NO-only), and 16-pin plastic DIP package compatibility with legacy through-hole layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX4668CPE+ implements two independent SPST analog switches with complementary control logic: IN1 and IN2 directly enable NO1 and NO2, respectively. Each switch supports bidirectional rail-to-rail analog signals from V− to V+, with on-resistance specified under both dual-supply (±15V) and single-supply (+12V) conditions.

Its internal architecture features integrated ESD protection (>2kV per Method 3015.7), low charge injection (50pC typical), and fast switching (t_ON = 400ns, t_OFF = 300ns at V_COM = ±10V). Logic inputs are referenced to VL (typically +5V), enabling robust interfacing with microcontrollers and FPGA I/Os without level-shifting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4668CPE+ uses a 16-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width and standard through-hole footprint. Pin spacing is 0.1 inch, compatible with industry-standard PCB layouts and socketing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADG1419BRUZ and TS5A3157DCKR, the MAX4668CPE+ uniquely provides dual-channel, through-hole-compatible, high-voltage (±20V) analog switching in one 16-pin DIP - making it the only drop-in replacement for legacy reed relay boards requiring mechanical reliability and wide signal range without layout change.

Availability

MAX4668CPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for reed relay replacement, test equipment multiplexing, audio-signal routing, avionics signal conditioning, and PBX/PABX system design requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for MAX4668CPE+ 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 MAX4667/MAX4668/MAX4669 family was designed specifically for high-reliability, high-voltage analog switching in automatic test equipment and mission-critical signal routing where mechanical relays fail due to wear, bounce, or slow response.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX4668CPE+?

The MAX4668CPE+ is rated for 0°C to +70°C operation. This commercial-grade temperature range is validated per the device's ordering information and absolute maximum ratings table. The 'C' suffix in MAX4668CPE+ explicitly denotes the 0°C to +70°C grade. For extended temperature applications, the MAX4668EPE variant (–40°C to +85°C) is available. All electrical specifications in the datasheet apply across this full range unless otherwise noted.

Does MAX4668CPE+ support break-before-make switching?

No, MAX4668CPE+ does not support break-before-make (BBM) operation. It is a dual normally open (NO) switch - meaning both channels are open when their respective IN pins are low, and close independently when driven high. BBM is only guaranteed in the MAX4669 variant (one NO + one NC channel). Using MAX4668CPE+ in applications requiring BBM - such as analog muxes where signal shorting must be avoided - requires external timing control or logic to sequence IN1 and IN2 appropriately.

Can MAX4668CPE+ operate from a single +5V supply?

No, MAX4668CPE+ cannot operate reliably from a single +5V supply. Its minimum single-supply voltage is +4.5V, but the datasheet specifies performance (e.g., R_ON, leakage, switching time) only down to +12V for single-supply operation. At +5V, R_ON increases significantly (≥4Ω typical), and logic thresholds may not be met. For true 5V operation, consider alternatives like the TS5A3157 or ADG801 - but note these lack the MAX4668CPE+'s high-voltage capability and dual-channel DIP form factor.

What is the purpose of the VL pin on MAX4668CPE+?

The VL pin on MAX4668CPE+ supplies the internal logic bias network and sets the input threshold levels for IN1 and IN2. It must be connected to a stable +5V supply (typical), independent of V+ and V−. This decoupling ensures consistent TTL/CMOS-compatible logic thresholds (+0.8V low, +2.4V high) regardless of analog supply voltages. Connecting VL to V+ or leaving it unconnected will cause undefined logic behavior and potential damage.

How does MAX4668CPE+ handle overvoltage conditions on analog pins?

MAX4668CPE+ includes internal ESD protection diodes from each analog pin (COM, NO, NC) to V+ and V−. If an analog signal exceeds V+ or drops below V−, current flows through these diodes - but must be externally limited to ≤10mA continuous or ≤300mA peak (1ms, 10% duty cycle) to avoid damage. For robust overvoltage tolerance beyond ±0.3V of the supplies, external series resistors or clamping diodes (as shown in Figure 1 of the datasheet) are recommended. The MAX4668CPE+ itself does not provide active overvoltage protection.