Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX473ESA
- Part No.:
- MAX473ESA
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX473ESA.pdf
- Description:
- IC OPAMP GP 1 CIRCUIT 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX473ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, rail-to-rail output operational amplifier optimized for single-supply operation from 2.7V to 5.25V. It delivers 10MHz unity-gain bandwidth, 15V/µs minimum slew rate, and 600Ω drive capability while consuming only 2mA per amplifier at +3V supply - enabling precision signal conditioning in portable battery-powered instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the MAX473ESA datasheet, MAX473ESA pinout, MAX473ESA application, or MAX473ESA equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, SO-8 package layout, rail-to-rail output behavior at ±50mV of rails, input voltage range extending to VEE, and confirmed alternatives for legacy design continuity and obsolescence mitigation.
Technical Context
The MAX473ESA employs a bipolar input stage with output transistors configured for true rail-to-rail swing (within 50mV of VCC and VEE), supporting single-supply signal acquisition down to ground-referenced inputs. Its unity-gain stability is validated across 10kΩ || 20pF loads with 63° phase margin.
It features internal short-circuit protection, guaranteed 10MHz bandwidth over –40°C to +85°C, and input bias current flowing out of both terminals - requiring matched source impedances to minimize offset error. The device lacks external offset null capability in dual/quad variants but retains it on the MAX473's pins 1 and 8.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.25V single supply - enables direct interface with 3V microcontrollers and low-voltage ADCs without level-shifting. |
| Unity-Gain Bandwidth | 10MHz (min) - supports stable closed-loop gain ≥1 up to 10MHz, suitable for anti-aliasing and active filter stages. |
| Slew Rate | 15V/µs (min) - ensures ≤700ns settling to 0.1% for 1V step, critical for fast pulse amplification and DAC buffering. |
| Rail-to-Rail Output | Swings to within ±50mV of VCC and VEE - maximizes dynamic range in 3V systems, delivering >2.9Vpp output at VCC = 3V. |
| Input Common-Mode Range | Includes VEE (0V) - allows ground-referenced sensor inputs (e.g., thermocouples, resistive bridges) without biasing networks. |
| Supply Current | 2.0mA per amplifier (typ) at +3V - enables multi-amplifier signal chains in power-constrained portable devices. |
| Input Offset Voltage | ±2.0mV (max) at +25°C - supports DC-coupled precision gain stages with <0.2% error in 1V full-scale applications. |
Pinout & Package
MAX473ESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, measuring 4.9mm × 3.9mm × 1.75mm, with standard op-amp pinout compatible with industry-layout practices.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Offset Null (–) | Connects to one end of 2kΩ potentiometer for trimming input offset voltage; required for highest DC accuracy. |
| 2 | Inverting Input (IN–) | Differential input node; bias current flows out - match impedance at IN+ to minimize offset error. |
| 3 | Noninverting Input (IN+) | Differential input node; common-mode range includes VEE (0V), enabling ground-sensed signals. |
| 4 | VEE | Negative supply pin; tied to ground in single-supply mode; substrate connected to VEE per die topology. |
| 5 | NULL | No internal connection - must be left unconnected; not usable as NC for routing or decoupling. |
| 6 | Output (OUT) | Amplifier output capable of sourcing/sinking 5mA; short-circuit protected; rail-to-rail swing to ±50mV. |
| 7 | VCC | Positive supply pin; bypass with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor close to pin for noise immunity and stability. |
| 8 | Offset Null (+) | Connects to other end of 2kΩ potentiometer; wiper ties to VEE to complete offset trim circuit (Figure 1). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Rail-to-rail output swing | Delivers usable output headroom down to 50mV above VEE and below VCC - preserves full-scale resolution in 3V data acquisition. |
| Single-supply operation | Operates from 2.7V to 5.25V with input range including ground - eliminates need for dual supplies or input biasing in portable systems. |
| 15V/µs min slew rate | Enables accurate reproduction of 100kHz full-scale sine waves (≤1Vpp) without slew-induced distortion. |
| 2mA supply current per amp | Supports integration of multiple amplifiers in battery-operated devices with <10µA standby leakage impact. |
| Input range includes negative rail | Accepts 0V input signals directly - simplifies front-end design for sensors referenced to system ground. |
| Short-circuit protected output | Withstands indefinite output short to VCC or VEE - improves robustness in industrial I/O modules and test equipment. |
Applications
| Battery-Powered Instrumentation | Portable Medical Sensors |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Signal amplification of low-level analog outputs from pH electrodes, thermistors, or strain gauges in handheld meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-supply op-amp providing DC-coupled, low-noise gain with rail-to-rail output driving 12-bit SAR ADC reference range. Use Value: Eliminates level-shifting circuitry and reduces BOM count by enabling direct interface between 0–3V sensor outputs and 0–3V ADC inputs. |
Use Scenario: Front-end amplification of ECG electrode signals in wearable patch monitors operating from coin-cell batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-quiescent-current amplifier conditioning sub-mV biopotential signals prior to digitization and wireless transmission. Use Value: 2mA supply current and rail-to-rail output maximize battery life and dynamic range within tight 3V supply constraints. |
| Discrete Active Filters | Servo Loop Compensation |
Use Scenario: Implementation of 2nd-order Sallen-Key bandpass filters for audio or ultrasonic sensing with precise center frequency control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unity-gain stable op-amp serving as integrator/gain block in feedback path with 10MHz GBW ensuring phase margin retention up to 190kHz. Use Value: Guaranteed 10MHz bandwidth and 63° phase margin ensure stable filter response without peaking or oscillation under load. |
Use Scenario: Error amplifier in closed-loop motor position control where fast transient response corrects mechanical lag. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-slew-rate op-amp generating correction voltage in real time with ≤700ns settling to 0.1% after step disturbance. Use Value: 15V/µs slew rate and 10MHz bandwidth enable rapid correction of position errors without overshoot in high-bandwidth servo systems. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar single-supply op-amp applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LMV321IDBVR | CMOS input (vs. bipolar), lower supply current (80µA), lower slew rate (1V/µs), rail-to-rail I/O, 1MHz GBW. | Lower power but insufficient bandwidth/slew for >100kHz signal paths; suited for low-speed sensor buffering only. | Select LMV321IDBVR only when ultra-low quiescent current dominates over speed and drive strength requirements. |
| TLV2461CDR | Bipolar input (like MAX473ESA), 6.4MHz GBW, 1.6V/µs slew rate, rail-to-rail output, 600µA supply current. | Lower bandwidth and slew limit use in fast-settling or wideband filtering; better DC precision (0.6mV VOS max) than MAX473ESA. | Choose TLV2461CDR when moderate speed suffices and tighter DC accuracy is prioritized over full 10MHz capability. |
Compared with MAX473ESA, LMV321IDBVR trades 15× lower supply current for 15× reduced slew rate and 10× lower bandwidth - making it unsuitable for signal paths requiring fast settling or wideband gain. TLV2461CDR offers improved DC specs but cannot replicate the 10MHz/15V/µs performance envelope essential for precision timing-critical amplification.
Availability
MAX473ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, portable medical sensors, discrete active filters, and servo loop compensation requiring stable component supply amid ongoing obsolescence management.
Supply support for MAX473ESA 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 and mixed-signal ICs for power, interface, sensing, and timing applications.
The MAX473ESA belongs to Maxim's legacy precision op-amp product line, designed specifically for single-supply, rail-to-rail signal conditioning in portable and low-voltage industrial systems where speed, output swing, and DC accuracy intersect.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX473ESA?
The MAX473ESA is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, as indicated by the "E" grade suffix in its ordering code. This extended temperature range makes it suitable for industrial and automotive-adjacent environments where ambient conditions exceed commercial-grade limits. All key specifications - including 10MHz bandwidth, 15V/µs slew rate, and rail-to-rail output - are guaranteed across this full range.
Does MAX473ESA support true rail-to-rail input?
No, the MAX473ESA does not support rail-to-rail input. Its input common-mode voltage range extends to the negative rail (VEE = 0V) but stops at (VCC – 1.9V) - meaning it cannot accept signals near VCC in single-supply mode. However, its output is rail-to-rail, swinging to within ±50mV of both VCC and VEE, which is fully documented in the Electrical Characteristics table for TA = –40°C to +85°C.
Can MAX473ESA drive capacitive loads without instability?
The MAX473ESA is unity-gain stable but exhibits reduced phase margin with increasing capacitive load. With 10kΩ || 20pF, phase margin is 63°; with 390pF || 10kΩ, overshoot increases significantly (see Figure 3). For loads >100pF, Maxim recommends adding a 10Ω isolation resistor in series with the output (Figure 4) - a proven method that restores stability even with 1000pF loads, as verified in Typical Operating Characteristics.
Is there an offset null capability on MAX473ESA?
Yes, the MAX473ESA retains the offset null feature present on the base MAX473. Pins 1 and 8 are dedicated offset null terminals; connecting a 2kΩ potentiometer between them with the wiper tied to VEE allows trimming input offset voltage to <0.5mV. This function is absent in the dual MAX474 and quad MAX475 variants, confirming its exclusive availability on the MAX473ESA variant.
Why is MAX473ESA marked "Not Recommended for New Designs"?
MAX473ESA is flagged "Not Recommended for New Designs" because it was manufactured using a wafer process no longer available at Maxim's external foundry. While fully functional and supported for existing designs, Maxim advises new projects to evaluate drop-in replacements like the MAX44260 or industry alternatives. Aetrix Electronics maintains legacy stock and provides technical continuity support for MAX473ESA in maintenance and repair contexts.
MAX473ESA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Amplifier Type:
- General Purpose
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- Rail-to-Rail
- Slew Rate:
- 17V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- 12 MHz
- -3db Bandwidth:
- -
- Current - Input Bias:
- 80 nA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 700 µV
- Current - Supply:
- 2mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 2.7 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 5.25 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX473ESA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX473ESA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX473ESA on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX473ESA reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX473ESA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX473ESA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX473ESA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX473ESA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX473ESA?
MAX473ESA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX473ESA order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX473ESA?
For technical support, including MAX473ESA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX473ESA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX473ESA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX473ESA products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX473ESA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX473ESA?
All MAX473ESA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX473ESA, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX473ESA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX473ESA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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