Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6126A41

Overview

MAX6126A41 from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-high-precision, ultra-low-noise series voltage reference with 4.096V nominal output, ±0.02% initial accuracy (A-grade SO package), 3ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, and 2.4µV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) flicker noise - deployed in high-resolution ADC/DAC systems requiring stable, low-drift references.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6126A41 datasheet, MAX6126A41 pinout, MAX6126A41 application, or MAX6126A41 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, Kelvin force-sense topology details, automotive-grade (-40°C to +125°C) operation, and real-world design implications for precision metrology and ATE equipment.

Technical Context

The MAX6126A41 uses curvature-corrected bandgap architecture with laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve 3ppm/°C max TCV_OUT over -40°C to +125°C. Its dual-output Kelvin configuration (OUTF/OUTS + GNDS) enables remote sensing to cancel PCB trace IR drops in precision current sources and DAC references.

It operates as a series-mode reference with dropout as low as 100mV at 5mA load, draws 380µA quiescent current independent of input voltage (2.7V–12.6V range), and achieves 80nV/√Hz wideband noise (1kHz, no NR cap) - reduced to 80nV/√Hz with 0.1µF on NR pin per datasheet Figure 1.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6126A41 is supplied in an 8-pin SO package (package code S8+4, outline 21-0041), measuring 4.9mm × 6.0mm × 1.75mm, RoHS-compliant (lead-free).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar voltage reference applications.

Compared with ADR4540BRZ and REF5040AIDR, the MAX6126A41 uniquely integrates NR pin noise reduction, dual-force/sense outputs, and GNDS for true 4-wire remote sensing - delivering superior system-level accuracy in space-constrained, high-precision applications without added layout complexity.

Availability

MAX6126A41 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution data acquisition, automotive sensor signal conditioning, and ATE equipment requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for MAX6126A41 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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX6126 family delivers ultra-stable voltage references optimized for metrology-grade systems where sub-ppm drift, ultra-low noise, and Kelvin sensing are mandatory for 16+ bit converter performance.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for the MAX6126A41?

The MAX6126A41 is rated for continuous operation from -40°C to +125°C, meeting automotive-grade requirements. This range is validated per the device's absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics tables, with all key parameters (tempco, accuracy, noise) specified across this full interval. The MAX6126A41 maintains ±0.02% initial accuracy and 3ppm/°C max tempco throughout this range when used in the SO package configuration.

Does the MAX6126A41 require an external resistor like shunt references?

No, the MAX6126A41 is a series-mode voltage reference and does not require an external resistor. Unlike two-terminal shunt references, it draws a nearly constant 380µA supply current independent of input voltage (4.3V–12.6V) and load conditions. This eliminates resistor selection, power dissipation calculations, and supply current waste - simplifying design and improving efficiency in battery- and thermally sensitive applications.

How does the NR (Noise Reduction) pin function on the MAX6126A41?

The NR pin on the MAX6126A41 accepts a 0.1µF capacitor to reduce wideband noise from 120nV/√Hz to 80nV/√Hz at 1kHz. This capacitor bypasses internal noise-generating nodes without increasing quiescent current. Leaving NR unconnected retains baseline noise performance. The effect is specific to the MAX6126A41's internal architecture and is validated in the "ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS-MAX6126_41" section of the datasheet.

Can the MAX6126A41 drive a 10mA load while maintaining specification?

Yes, the MAX6126A41 is fully specified to source and sink up to ±10mA while maintaining all key parameters including load regulation (<5µV/mA), dropout voltage (≤400mV at 10mA), and output accuracy. Load regulation is tested across the full -10mA to +10mA range, and the device remains stable with output capacitance from 0.1µF to 10µF - enabling direct interface with op-amp buffers, ADC reference inputs, and precision current sinks without additional support circuitry.

What is the purpose of the GNDS pin on the MAX6126A41?

The GNDS (Ground Sense) pin on the MAX6126A41 provides a dedicated Kelvin connection to the load-side ground reference point, enabling cancellation of voltage drop in the ground return path. When used with OUTS and OUTF, GNDS forms a true 4-wire sensing configuration that eliminates errors from PCB trace resistance - critical for achieving sub-0.01% accuracy in precision current sources and ratiometric sensor interfaces. GNDS must be routed separately from GND and tied to the same physical point as OUTS at the load.