Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6241AEPA+

Overview

MAX6241AEPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a precision 4.096V buried-zener voltage reference IC with 3.0ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, ±0.02% initial accuracy, and 2.4µV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) output noise-designed for high-resolution ADC/DAC biasing in industrial data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6241AEPA+ datasheet, MAX6241AEPA+ pinout, MAX6241AEPA+ application, or MAX6241AEPA+ equivalent, this device delivers laboratory-grade stability in an 8-pin PDIP package with trim, noise reduction, and ±15mA sourcing/sinking capability for metrology-grade signal chains.

Technical Context

The MAX6241AEPA+ uses buried-zener core technology with on-chip temperature compensation to achieve near-zero curvature over –40°C to +85°C. Its low 18mW typical power consumption and stable operation into 0–100µF capacitive loads enable direct integration into sensitive analog front-ends without external buffering.

It supports optional external trimming (±24mV to ±40mV range) and NR-pin noise filtering (1µF capacitor), while maintaining 20ppm/1000h long-term stability and <8µs turn-on settling to ±0.01%-critical for automated test equipment requiring repeatable calibration references.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6241AEPA+ is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch width, RoHS-compliant lead finish, and through-hole mounting compatibility.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF5040IDR and ADR444BRZ, the MAX6241AEPA+ offers superior ±15mA drive strength and lower 2.4µV_P-P noise in a through-hole PDIP package-making it optimal for legacy industrial designs, high-current reference distribution, and repair/replacement scenarios where footprint compatibility matters.

Availability

MAX6241AEPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution data converters, digital voltmeters, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for MAX6241AEPA+ 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 industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX62xx family was designed specifically for metrology-grade voltage referencing-emphasizing ultra-low noise, sub-ppm/°C stability, and robustness in demanding instrumentation and calibration systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for the MAX6241AEPA+?

The MAX6241AEPA+ is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, as indicated by the "E" grade suffix in its part number. This industrial temperature range is validated across all electrical specifications including tempco, initial accuracy, and long-term stability-ensuring reliable performance in factory automation, motor control, and outdoor instrumentation environments where ambient temperatures fluctuate widely. The MAX6241AEPA+ maintains its 3.0ppm/°C max tempco and ±0.02% initial accuracy across this full range.

Can the MAX6241AEPA+ drive a 100µF output capacitor without instability?

Yes, the MAX6241AEPA+ is explicitly characterized and guaranteed stable with capacitive loads from 0µF to 100µF across all load currents, per the datasheet's "Bypassing" section and Typical Operating Characteristics. This eliminates the need for series isolation resistors or external buffer amplifiers when driving large sample-and-hold capacitors in high-speed ADCs or smoothing filters in precision current sources. Stability is maintained regardless of whether the load is sourcing or sinking current, making the MAX6241AEPA+ uniquely suited for dynamic reference applications.

How does the NR (Noise Reduction) pin function on the MAX6241AEPA+?

The NR pin on the MAX6241AEPA+ accepts an external 1µF capacitor to reduce wideband output noise-particularly effective above 10kHz-by shunting high-frequency noise currents to ground. As shown in Figure 2 of the datasheet, connecting a 1µF ceramic capacitor between NR and GND lowers RMS noise by >20dB in the 10kHz–1MHz band without degrading low-frequency (0.1Hz–10Hz) performance. Larger capacitance values yield diminishing returns; the MAX6241AEPA+'s NR network is optimized for 1µF, and leaving NR open defaults to standard noise performance (2.4µV_P-P).

What is the trim-adjustment range for the MAX6241AEPA+?

The TRIM pin on the MAX6241AEPA+ supports external adjustment of the output voltage over a range of ±24mV to ±40mV (±0.59% to ±0.98% of 4.096V), depending on grade-specifically ±24mV/±40mV for "A" grade devices per the MAX6241 Electrical Characteristics table. This is implemented using a 10kΩ potentiometer between OUT and GND, with its wiper connected to TRIM. Crucially, external trimming does not degrade the device's specified temperature coefficient or long-term stability, enabling field calibration without compromising metrological integrity.

Is the MAX6241AEPA+ pin-compatible with other members of the MAX62xx family?

Yes, the MAX6241AEPA+ shares identical pinout, package dimensions, and terminal functions with all MAX6225/MAX6241/MAX6250 variants-including MAX6225AEPA+ (2.5V) and MAX6250AEPA+ (5.0V)-as confirmed by the unified Pin Configuration diagram and Pin Description table. All use the same 8-pin PDIP footprint with pins 1/7/8 internally connected (NC), IN on pin 2, NR on pin 3, GND on pin 4, TRIM on pin 5, and OUT on pin 6. This allows drop-in replacement across output voltages when board layout permits, provided input voltage and load requirements are re-verified.