Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6604ATA+

Overview

MAX6604ATA+ from Maxim Integrated is a high-precision SMBus/I²C-compatible temperature sensor designed specifically for thermal monitoring on DDR memory modules. It delivers ±1°C accuracy over –20°C to +125°C, updates temperature data 8 times per second, and features programmable overtemperature interrupt thresholds via its digital interface. Its placement directly on the memory module enables accurate, responsive thermal tracking critical for DDR thermal management.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6604ATA+ datasheet, MAX6604ATA+ pinout, MAX6604ATA+ application, or MAX6604ATA+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-pin TDFN (2mm × 3mm) package, ±1°C measurement accuracy across full operating range, 8 Hz conversion rate, and support for up to eight devices on one SMBus with A0–A2 address inputs.

Technical Context

The MAX6604ATA+ functions as an SMBus/I²C slave device with a fixed 7-bit base address (0011xxx0) configurable via three hardware address pins (A0–A2), enabling up to eight sensors on a single bus. It implements a 16-bit register map including read-only temperature data (0.125°C LSB), programmable alarm/critical trip thresholds (0.25°C LSB), and configuration control for EVENT output mode (interrupt/comparator/critical-only) and polarity.

Its thermal sensing core continuously samples die temperature and latches results at 8 Hz; conversion time is 125 ms. The EVENT pin operates as an open-drain output supporting three distinct functional modes-each defined by bits in the Configuration Register (address 01h)-and responds to crossing of user-defined upper/lower alarm or critical thresholds, with optional hysteresis (1.5°C/3°C/6°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6604ATA+ is housed in an 8-pin TDFN-EP package (2mm × 3mm, 0.75mm height) with exposed pad (EP) internally connected to GND. The EP must be soldered to a large PCB ground plane for optimal thermal and electrical performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar temperature-monitoring applications.

Compared with LM75BIMMX-3/NOPB and ADT7410TRZ-REEL7, the MAX6604ATA+ uniquely combines JEDEC compliance, ±1°C accuracy across –20°C to +125°C, hardware-configurable SMBus addressing, and a flexible three-mode EVENT output - making it the only option qualified for production DDR module thermal management where reliability, responsiveness, and standards alignment are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX6604ATA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DDR memory modules, server memory subsystems, and notebook thermal management applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX6604ATA+ 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, computing, and communications systems.

The MAX6604 belongs to Maxim's precision temperature sensor product line, engineered explicitly for JEDEC-compliant DDR memory thermal monitoring - emphasizing on-module accuracy, SMBus interoperability, and robust interrupt-driven thermal event handling.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the MAX6604ATA+?

The MAX6604ATA+ operates from –20°C to +125°C. This extended industrial range is specified and tested across the full span, ensuring reliable thermal monitoring on DDR memory modules exposed to high ambient and self-heating conditions. The device maintains ±1°C accuracy throughout this range, which is critical for DDR thermal derating compliance and system-level thermal management decisions.

Does the MAX6604ATA+ support fast-mode I²C communication?

No, the MAX6604ATA+ supports standard-mode SMBus/I²C only, with a maximum serial clock frequency of 100 kHz. This is confirmed in the "TIMING CHARACTERISTICS-MAX6604ATA+" section of the datasheet. Faster variants (e.g., MAX6604AATA+) support 400 kHz fast mode, but the MAX6604ATA+ is specifically characterized and rated for 10–100 kHz operation.

How many MAX6604ATA+ devices can share the same SMBus?

Up to eight MAX6604ATA+ devices can share a single SMBus. This is enabled by three hardware address inputs (A0, A1, A2), each tied to GND or VCC to configure a unique 7-bit slave address (base 0011xxx0). The MAX6604ATA+ datasheet explicitly confirms this capability in both the General Description and Device Addressing sections.

What is the function of the EVENT pin on the MAX6604ATA+?

The EVENT pin on the MAX6604ATA+ is an open-drain output that signals temperature threshold crossings. It supports three configurable modes - interrupt, comparator, and critical-temperature-only - selected via the Configuration Register (address 01h). In all modes, it asserts based on comparisons against programmable upper/lower alarm or critical trip thresholds stored in registers 02h–04h, enabling hardware-triggered thermal responses without continuous polling.

Is the MAX6604ATA+ RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX6604ATA+ is RoHS-compliant and lead-free. The "+" suffix in the part number denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package, as explicitly stated in the Pin Configurations section of the datasheet. The 8-pin TDFN-EP package meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 requirements and is qualified for reflow soldering at +260°C peak temperature.