Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6241AMJA

Overview

MAX6241AMJA from Maxim Integrated is a precision 4.096V buried-zener voltage reference optimized for high-resolution data-conversion systems, featuring ±0.02% initial accuracy, 5.0ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over –55°C to +125°C, and 2.4µV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) output noise. It delivers ±15mA sourcing/sinking capability and supports external trimming and noise reduction in military-grade CERDIP packaging.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6241AMJA datasheet, MAX6241AMJA pinout, MAX6241AMJA application, or MAX6241AMJA equivalent, this device is selected for demanding analog signal chains where long-term stability (20ppm/1000h), low load regulation (3–9ppm/mA), and robust transient response (<8µs settling to ±0.01%) are critical in aerospace, test equipment, and precision instrumentation.

Technical Context

The MAX6241AMJA employs buried-zener core technology with on-chip temperature compensation to achieve near-zero curvature across its full –55°C to +125°C operating range. Its architecture guarantees stable performance under capacitive loads up to 100µF and maintains low output impedance (<1Ω at 1kHz) even during fast load transients.

It integrates dedicated NR and TRIM pins enabling system-level optimization: a 1µF capacitor on NR reduces wideband noise, while a 10kΩ potentiometer between OUT and GND adjusts output by ±24mV (±0.59%) without degrading temperature stability or long-term drift.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6241AMJA is housed in an 8-pin CERDIP (J8-2) package rated for –55°C to +125°C operation, with hermetic sealing and gold-plated leads suitable for high-reliability military and space applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF5040IDR and ADR444BRZ, MAX6241AMJA uniquely combines hermetic CERDIP packaging, full –55°C to +125°C qualification, integrated NR/TRIM functionality, and ±15mA bidirectional drive-making it irreplaceable in mission-critical systems where reliability, configurability, and environmental resilience are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX6241AMJA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-accuracy industrial process control, aerospace telemetry systems, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long lifecycle deployments.

Supply support for MAX6241AMJA 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 high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for precision, power, and interface applications.

The MAX62xx family was engineered specifically for metrology-grade voltage referencing in 16-bit+ data converters, calibration standards, and systems demanding laboratory-level stability under extreme environmental stress.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for MAX6241AMJA?

MAX6241AMJA is rated for continuous operation from –55°C to +125°C, as confirmed in the Ordering Information table and Absolute Maximum Ratings section. This military-grade temperature range is enabled by its hermetic 8-pin CERDIP package and internally compensated buried-zener architecture - making MAX6241AMJA suitable for avionics, downhole drilling tools, and engine control units where ambient extremes are routine.

Does MAX6241AMJA support external noise reduction, and how is it implemented?

Yes, MAX6241AMJA includes a dedicated NR (Noise Reduction) pin (Pin 3). Connecting a 1µF capacitor from NR to GND reduces wideband output noise, as verified in Typical Operating Characteristics Figure 11 and Applications Information section. The datasheet confirms larger values yield diminishing returns, and leaving NR open disables this feature - giving designers precise control over noise-performance tradeoffs without altering the reference's DC accuracy or stability.

Can MAX6241AMJA both source and sink current, and what are the limits?

Yes, MAX6241AMJA provides symmetrical ±15mA output current capability, validated across its full temperature range. Electrical Characteristics tables specify load regulation for both sourcing (0mA to +15mA) and sinking (–15mA to 0mA) conditions, with worst-case drift of 9ppm/mA (sourcing) and 18ppm/mA (sinking) at military temperature grade. This bidirectional drive enables direct interfacing with op-amps, current pumps, and DAC buffers without external transistors - a key differentiator versus many bandgap references.

What is the purpose of the TRIM pin on MAX6241AMJA, and what adjustment range does it provide?

The TRIM pin (Pin 5) allows external fine-tuning of the 4.096V output using a 10kΩ potentiometer connected between OUT and GND, with the wiper to TRIM - as shown in Figure 1. For MAX6241AMJA, this provides a guaranteed ±24mV (±0.59%) adjustment range, independent of temperature and long-term drift. Critically, the datasheet states external trimming "does not affect temperature stability," preserving the 5.0ppm/°C specification while enabling system-level calibration.

Is MAX6241AMJA stable with large output capacitance, and what is the supported range?

Yes, MAX6241AMJA is explicitly characterized and guaranteed stable with output capacitance from 0µF to 100µF across all load currents, per the Bypassing section and Typical Operating Characteristics. This eliminates the need for series resistance or isolation components when driving ADC reference inputs, large decoupling banks, or noise-sensitive analog circuitry - simplifying layout and improving transient immunity without sacrificing startup time or regulation accuracy.