Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6241BESA

Overview

MAX6241BESA from Maxim Integrated is a precision 4.096V buried-zener voltage reference IC with ±0.02% initial accuracy, 7ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over –40°C to +85°C, and 2.4µV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) output noise - designed for high-resolution ADC/DAC biasing in industrial instrumentation and automated test equipment.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6241BESA datasheet, MAX6241BESA pinout, MAX6241BESA application, or MAX6241BESA equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed ±15mA sourcing/sinking capability, optional external trim (±40mV range), noise-reduction capacitor support on NR pin, and stability with 0–100µF capacitive loads without compensation.

Technical Context

The MAX6241BESA employs buried-zener core technology with low-power curvature-correction circuitry to achieve near-zero thermal hysteresis (20ppm) and flat temperature drift across its full operating range. Its internal architecture supports simultaneous high-accuracy DC regulation and low-noise spectral performance via dedicated NR pin filtering.

It delivers stable 4.096V output under input voltages from 8V to 36V, maintains ±0.01% settling in 8µs, and sustains load regulation of ≤7ppm/mA (sourcing) and ≤7ppm/mA (sinking) across –40°C to +85°C - enabling direct integration into 16-bit data-conversion signal chains without post-regulation calibration.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6241BESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad (RoHS-compliant, lead-free). Pin 1, 7, and 8 are internally connected and must remain unconnected in PCB layout.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADR444BRZ and REF5040AID, the MAX6241BESA offers superior output drive (±15mA vs. ≤10mA), lower noise (2.4µV_P-P vs. ≥3.5µV_P-P), and industry-standard SO-8 pinout - making it optimal for space-constrained, high-current, low-noise industrial DAQ modules without layout revision.

Availability

MAX6241BESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution analog-to-digital converters, automated test equipment, and precision current sources requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX6241BESA 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, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX62xx family was engineered specifically for metrology-grade voltage referencing in 16-bit+ data acquisition systems - emphasizing ultra-low noise, tight initial accuracy, and robust thermal stability without heated oven compensation.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for MAX6241BESA?

The MAX6241BESA has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of +40V on the IN pin. However, the recommended operating input voltage range is 8V to 36V. Operation above 36V may increase power dissipation beyond safe limits and degrade long-term stability. For reliable operation in industrial environments with line transients, a 33V TVS diode on the IN rail is advised. The MAX6241BESA itself does not include overvoltage protection circuitry.

Can MAX6241BESA drive a 10µF output capacitor without instability?

Yes, the MAX6241BESA is explicitly characterized and guaranteed stable with output capacitance ranging from 0µF to 100µF across all load currents and temperatures. This includes 10µF ceramic or tantalum capacitors commonly used for high-frequency decoupling. No external compensation components are required. The device's internal design ensures phase margin remains >60° even under worst-case capacitive loading and temperature extremes.

Does the TRIM pin on MAX6241BESA affect temperature coefficient performance?

No, the TRIM pin on MAX6241BESA does not degrade temperature coefficient performance. External trimming via a 10kΩ potentiometer adjusts output voltage within ±40mV (±0.98%) while preserving the specified 7ppm/°C maximum tempco over –40°C to +85°C. This is confirmed in the datasheet's "Detailed Description" section, which states: "The external trimming does not affect temperature stability." Trim adjustments are fully monotonic and repeatable.

What is the typical supply current of MAX6241BESA at +25°C?

The typical supply current of MAX6241BESA at +25°C is 2.9mA, with a guaranteed maximum of 3.2mA across the full –40°C to +85°C operating range. This value is measured at VIN = +10V and IOUT = 0mA. Supply current increases slightly with input voltage (e.g., ~3.0mA at VIN = +15V) but remains well below 3.5mA across the entire 8V–36V input range, supporting low-power portable instrumentation designs.

Is MAX6241BESA RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, MAX6241BESA is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, as indicated by the "+" suffix in its ordering code per Maxim's packaging notation. It uses a lead(Pb)-free finish on its 8-pin SO package and meets JEDEC J-STD-609 Category 1 requirements. The device is compatible with standard SnAgCu reflow profiles (peak 260°C for 10 seconds), and no special handling or assembly deviations are required versus legacy leaded variants.