Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5426AEUD

Overview

MAX5426AEUD from Maxim Integrated is a precision resistor network designed for programmable instrumentation amplifiers, delivering differential gains of 1, 2, 4, and 8 with ±0.025% gain accuracy over –40°C to +85°C, dual ±5V to ±15V supply operation, and 36µA typical supply current in a 14-pin TSSOP package.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5426AEUD datasheet, MAX5426AEUD pinout, MAX5426AEUD application, or MAX5426AEUD equivalent, this page provides verified functional roles, confirmed resistor values per gain setting, CMOS/TTL-compatible 2-wire digital interface timing, OFFSET pin functionality, and real-world instrumentation amplifier integration constraints.

Technical Context

The MAX5426AEUD implements a digitally programmable resistor array using BICMOS technology, integrating fixed and switched resistors to configure gain stages in classical three-op-amp instrumentation amplifier topologies. It separates input-stage (FB1/FB2/OUT1/OUT2) and output-stage (INDIF+/INDIF-/OFFSET/OUT) networks with defined equivalent resistances per gain code.

Gain selection is controlled by two CMOS/TTL-compatible digital inputs (D0/D1), with switching time of 60ns and no internal latching-requiring stable logic levels during configuration. The device supports common-mode voltage buffering via the CM pin and enables DC offset injection through the dedicated OFFSET terminal.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX5426AEUD is housed in a 6.4mm × 5mm 14-pin TSSOP package with exposed pad (not electrically connected), requiring standard SMT reflow profiles and GND plane thermal relief for stability.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar precision programmable resistor network applications.

Compared with MAX5427AEUD, MAX5426AEUD offers lower cost and faster switching but lacks nonvolatile memory; versus LTC6910-1CS8#PBF, it delivers superior differential performance and integrated offset capability at the expense of interface flexibility and package size.

Availability

MAX5426AEUD is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automated test equipment, medical imaging front-ends, and RF power amplifier control systems requiring stable component supply, traceable lot history, and extended temperature grade assurance.

Supply support for MAX5426AEUD 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 semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-reliability ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX5426 product line delivers factory-trimmed, temperature-stable resistor networks for programmable instrumentation amplifiers - targeting applications demanding sub-0.1% gain accuracy without calibration overhead.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for MAX5426AEUD?

The MAX5426AEUD has absolute maximum ratings of VDD to GND = –0.3V to +17V and VSS to GND = –17V to +0.3V. For reliable operation, the recommended supply range is ±5V to ±15V. Exceeding ±15.75V on either rail risks permanent damage, and operation above +15V or below –15V degrades gain accuracy beyond the specified ±0.025% limit. Always use 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitors at VDD and VSS per the MAX5426AEUD datasheet guidelines.

How does the OFFSET pin function in MAX5426AEUD circuits?

The OFFSET pin in MAX5426AEUD connects to the second-stage differential amplifier's offset injection node, allowing external DC voltage (e.g., from a DAC or precision reference) to shift the final output common-mode level. This feature enables bipolar-to-unipolar signal translation before ADC sampling. Unlike generic op amp offset adjustments, the MAX5426AEUD's OFFSET pin is internally routed to maintain gain accuracy - applying ±2.5V here shifts VOUT without affecting the 1/2/4/8 gain ratios or introducing additional error sources.

Can MAX5426AEUD be used with single-supply op amps?

No - MAX5426AEUD requires dual ±5V to ±15V supplies and is incompatible with single-supply op amp configurations. Its internal resistor network and biasing depend on symmetric positive/negative rails to maintain common-mode integrity and prevent clipping. Attempting to operate MAX5426AEUD with a single 10V supply (e.g., 0V and +10V) violates the absolute maximum rating for VSS to GND (–17V to +0.3V) and will cause functional failure. Use only with fully differential, dual-rail op amps such as the MAX427 as specified in the MAX5426AEUD application notes.

What is the purpose of the CM pin on MAX5426AEUD?

The CM (common-mode) pin on MAX5426AEUD provides a buffered reference for the instrumentation amplifier's input common-mode voltage - typically connected to the shield of the input sensor cable. This reduces leakage current errors and capacitive coupling noise in long-cable applications. Unlike generic ground connections, the CM pin is actively driven to track ±1% of the actual input common-mode voltage, ensuring rejection of common-mode interference without loading the sensor source. It must be terminated externally; leaving CM floating degrades CMRR by up to 30dB.

Does MAX5426AEUD require external bypass capacitors?

Yes - MAX5426AEUD requires 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitors between VDD and GND, and between VSS and GND, as specified in the Pin Description section. These capacitors suppress high-frequency supply noise that would otherwise modulate the precision resistor network and degrade gain accuracy. While the device may appear functional without them in bench tests, production systems operating in electrically noisy environments (e.g., motor drives or RF transceivers) will exhibit increased gain drift and CMRR degradation. The MAX5426AEUD datasheet explicitly mandates these capacitors for guaranteed ±0.025% performance.