Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6138BEXR41-T
- Part No.:
- MAX6138BEXR41-T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Voltage Reference
- Package:
- SC-70, SOT-323
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6138BEXR41-T.pdf
- Description:
- VOLTAGE REFERENCE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX6138BEXR41-T from Maxim Integrated is a precision two-terminal shunt-mode bandgap voltage reference with a fixed reverse breakdown voltage of 4.096V, ±0.2% initial accuracy, and 25ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over –40°C to +85°C. It operates from 73µA to 15mA shunt current, delivers 64µVRMS wideband noise (10Hz–10kHz), and is housed in a space-saving 3-pin SC70 package (1.8mm × 1.8mm). It serves as a stable reference in high-resolution ADC/DAC biasing and portable power monitoring circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6138BEXR41-T datasheet, MAX6138BEXR41-T pinout, MAX6138BEXR41-T application, or MAX6138BEXR41-T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4.096V output compatibility with 12-bit DACs, low dynamic impedance (0.5–1.0Ω), no-output-capacitor operation, and guaranteed stability with capacitive loads - critical for battery-powered instrumentation and industrial sensor signal chains.
Technical Context
The MAX6138BEXR41-T implements a laser-trimmed BiCMOS bandgap core to achieve precise 4.096V reverse breakdown voltage with minimal thermal drift. Its two-terminal architecture eliminates need for supply rails or enable logic, simplifying integration into high-side sensing and floating reference topologies.
It maintains regulation across a 73µA to 15mA shunt-current range while exhibiting low dynamic impedance (≤1.0Ω at 1mA) and predictable load-transient response (e.g., <2.0mV overshoot for ±250µA steps at 1mA bias). Temperature coefficient is specified up to ±25ppm/°C over –40°C to +85°C, with typical performance near ±4ppm/°C.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 4.096V nominal; ±0.2% initial tolerance ensures ≤±8.2mV absolute error at +25°C - matches standard 12-bit full-scale reference points. |
| Temperature Coefficient | Max 25ppm/°C over –40°C to +85°C; guarantees ≤±10.2mV total drift across full temp range - suitable for industrial-grade measurement systems. |
| Shunt Current Range | 73µA min to 15mA max; enables use with high-impedance sources (e.g., >50kΩ RS) while supporting heavy load transients without dropout. |
| Dynamic Impedance | 0.5Ω (typ), 1.0Ω (max) at 1mA/120Hz; ensures minimal output voltage shift under varying load current - critical for precision ratiometric designs. |
| Wideband Noise | 64µVRMS (10Hz–10kHz); contributes <0.016 LSB RMS noise in 12-bit 4.096V systems - supports sub-LSB accuracy in low-speed data acquisition. |
| Long-Term Stability | 120ppm (1000h); ≈±0.5mV drift over 6 weeks - supports calibration intervals in field-deployed test equipment. |
| Package | SC70-3 (1.8mm × 1.8mm × 0.9mm); 50% smaller than SOT23-3 - enables ultra-compact PCB layouts in wearables and IoT edge nodes. |
Pinout & Package
The MAX6138BEXR41-T is packaged in a 3-pin SC70 surface-mount package with exposed pad not connected. Pin 3 is NC (no connection) and must be left floating or tied to Pin 2 per datasheet requirement.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 (+) | Positive terminal (anode) | Connects to regulated reference node; sinks current when reverse-biased - forms cathode-to-anode path with Pin 2. |
| Pin 2 (–) | Negative terminal (cathode) | Reference ground return; defines 4.096V potential relative to Pin 1 - must be low-impedance for noise-sensitive applications. |
| Pin 3 (N.C.) | No connection | Must remain unconnected or shorted to Pin 2; no internal circuitry - prevents parasitic coupling or ESD path misrouting. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-small SC70-3 footprint | 1.8mm × 1.8mm area saves >50% board space vs. SOT23-3 - enables dense mixed-signal layouts in handheld medical devices. |
| No external capacitor required | Internally compensated for stability with any capacitive load - eliminates BOM cost and layout risk from output filtering components. |
| Stable with capacitive loads | Guaranteed phase margin >45° up to 1µF - supports direct connection to ADC reference inputs without oscillation or settling delay. |
| Laser-trimmed accuracy | ±0.2% initial tolerance achieved via on-die resistor trimming - avoids post-assembly calibration in production test flows. |
| Low wideband noise | 64µVRMS (10Hz–10kHz) enables <12-bit effective resolution without external filtering - reduces signal-chain complexity in portable DMMs. |
Applications
| Portable Data Acquisition | Industrial Sensor Transmitters |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered handheld multimeter measuring 0–4.096V input range with 12-bit SAR ADC. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides ratiometric reference for ADC conversion; replaces bulkier LM4040-based solutions. Use Value: 4.096V output aligns exactly with 12-bit full-scale code (2¹² = 4096), eliminating digital gain correction and reducing firmware overhead. |
Use Scenario: 4–20mA loop-powered pressure transmitter operating in –40°C to +85°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Supplies stable excitation voltage to bridge sensor and reference for DAC-controlled current output. Use Value: 25ppm/°C TC and 0.2% initial accuracy ensure <0.1% FS error contribution across temperature - meets Class A industrial accuracy standards. |
| Wearable Health Monitors | Energy Meter Reference Subsystem |
|
Use Scenario: Optical heart-rate sensor module powered by coin-cell battery with strict size constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Generates precision bias for photodiode TIA and ADC reference in ultra-low-power mode. Use Value: 73µA minimum operating current allows continuous operation for >1 year on CR2032 - extends device lifetime without compromising accuracy. |
Use Scenario: Polyphase electricity meter requiring metrology-grade voltage reference for 24-bit sigma-delta ADCs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Delivers low-noise, drift-stable reference for active energy calculation algorithms. Use Value: 64µVRMS noise and 120ppm/1000h long-term stability support 0.1% billing accuracy compliance over 10-year product life. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar shunt voltage reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLVH431AIDBZR | 3-pin adjustable shunt reference (2.5V base); 0.5% initial accuracy; 100ppm/°C TC; requires external resistors for 4.096V setting. | Higher TC and accuracy tolerance increase system-level calibration burden; adjustable topology adds component count. | Select when design flexibility for multiple output voltages is needed and ±0.5% tolerance is acceptable. |
| LM4040C41IDCKR | Fixed 4.096V shunt reference; 0.5% initial accuracy; 100ppm/°C TC; SOT23-3 package (larger than SC70). | Lower accuracy and higher TC degrade measurement fidelity; larger footprint limits miniaturization. | Select only if cost is primary constraint and 0.2% accuracy/25ppm TC are not required for target application. |
Compared with TLVH431AIDBZR and LM4040C41IDCKR, the MAX6138BEXR41-T provides tighter initial accuracy (±0.2% vs. ±0.5%), lower temperature drift (25ppm/°C vs. ≥100ppm/°C), and 50% smaller footprint - delivering measurable improvement in size-constrained, high-accuracy analog signal chains without added external components.
Availability
MAX6138BEXR41-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data acquisition, industrial sensor transmitters, and wearable health monitors requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.
Supply support for MAX6138BEXR41-T 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The MAX6138 series was designed specifically for space-constrained, high-accuracy voltage reference applications demanding low drift, low noise, and minimal external components - targeting portable instrumentation and precision sensor interfaces.
FAQ
What is the maximum shunt current rating for MAX6138BEXR41-T?
The MAX6138BEXR41-T supports a maximum continuous shunt current of 15mA under normal operation, with an absolute maximum rating of 20mA. Exceeding 15mA may cause thermal derating or reduced long-term stability; operation above 20mA risks permanent damage. The device is optimized for stable regulation between 73µA and 15mA, making it ideal for low-power and high-precision applications where current headroom must be carefully managed.
Does MAX6138BEXR41-T require an external output capacitor?
No, the MAX6138BEXR41-T does not require an external output capacitor for stability. Its internal compensation ensures robust operation with any capacitive load, including direct connection to ADC reference pins or large decoupling caps up to 1µF. This eliminates BOM cost, layout complexity, and potential instability issues associated with capacitor selection - a key advantage over older shunt references like the LM4040.
What is the meaning of "N.C." on Pin 3 of MAX6138BEXR41-T?
Pin 3 of the MAX6138BEXR41-T is designated N.C. (No Connection) and contains no internal circuitry. Per the datasheet, it must either be left floating or connected directly to Pin 2 (cathode). Improper routing - such as tying Pin 3 to ground or leaving it unterminated in high-noise environments - may introduce leakage paths or ESD susceptibility. This design choice simplifies PCB layout while maintaining signal integrity in compact SC70 packages.
How does the 4.096V output voltage of MAX6138BEXR41-T benefit ADC interfacing?
The 4.096V output of MAX6138BEXR41-T aligns precisely with the full-scale range of 12-bit analog-to-digital converters (2¹² = 4096 mV), enabling direct 1:1 mapping between LSB value and millivolt resolution. This eliminates digital gain scaling in firmware, reduces quantization error, and simplifies calibration - especially valuable in portable test equipment and battery-powered sensors where processing resources and power are constrained.
Is MAX6138BEXR41-T compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?
Yes, the MAX6138BEXR41-T is qualified for lead-free reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020. Its SC70-3 package supports peak reflow temperatures up to +260°C for 30 seconds, with MSL level 1 rating (unlimited floor life at ≤30°C/85% RH). The device's BiCMOS process and robust passivation ensure reliability after standard Pb-free thermal profiles - critical for high-volume manufacturing of consumer and industrial electronics.
MAX6138BEXR41-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package/Case:
- SC-70, SOT-323
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Reference Type:
- Shunt
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 4.096V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 15 mA
- Tolerance:
- ±0.2%
- Temperature Coefficient:
- 25ppm/°C
- Noise - 0.1Hz to 10Hz:
- -
- Noise - 10Hz to 10kHz:
- 64µVrms
- Voltage - Input:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Current - Cathode:
- 73 µA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SC-70-3
MAX6138BEXR41-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6138BEXR41-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6138BEXR41-T 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 MAX6138BEXR41-T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6138BEXR41-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6138BEXR41-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6138BEXR41-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6138BEXR41-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6138BEXR41-T?
MAX6138BEXR41-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6138BEXR41-T 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 MAX6138BEXR41-T?
For technical support, including MAX6138BEXR41-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6138BEXR41-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6138BEXR41-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6138BEXR41-T 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 MAX6138BEXR41-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6138BEXR41-T?
All MAX6138BEXR41-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6138BEXR41-T, 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 MAX6138BEXR41-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6138BEXR41-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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