Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8211ESA

Overview

MAX8211ESA from Analog Devices is a CMOS micropower voltage detector designed for microprocessor power-fail warning and programmable undervoltage/overvoltage monitoring. It features a 1.15V internal bandgap reference, ±40mV threshold accuracy (±3.5%), 5µA quiescent current, 7mA current-limited open-drain output sink, and operates across 2.0V–16.5V supply range. It is used in battery-backup switching and power-supply fault monitoring circuits where precision trip-point control and low-power supervision are required.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8211ESA datasheet, MAX8211ESA pinout, MAX8211ESA application, or MAX8211ESA equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specifications, SO-8 package mapping, THRESH/HYST/OUT functional pin roles, real-world use cases in logic-supply monitoring and backup switchover, and two validated alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.

Technical Context

The MAX8211ESA implements a comparator-based detection architecture with an internal 1.15V bandgap reference and open-drain n-channel output stage that activates when THRESH voltage falls below the reference. Its hysteresis output (HYST) provides positive feedback capability to eliminate noise-induced chatter, with hysteresis magnitude programmable via external resistor networks.

Unlike the MAX8212 variant, the MAX8211ESA enforces a 7mA typical current limit on its OUT pin-enabling direct LED drive without series resistors-and exhibits ±40mV threshold accuracy over –40°C to +85°C, with <200ppm/°C temperature coefficient and <1mV supply-voltage sensitivity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8211ESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package (S8-2), measuring 4.9mm × 6.0mm × 1.75mm, with gull-wing leads and RoHS-compliant finish. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; the package is not thermally enhanced and requires standard reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8212ESA and TLV803EB29DBZR, the MAX8211ESA uniquely combines programmable undervoltage trip points, integrated hysteresis control, and current-limited output in an industry-standard SO-8 footprint-making it optimal for flexible, noise-immune power supervision where trip voltage must adapt to varying system requirements.

Availability

MAX8211ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, battery-powered medical devices, and telecom power modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8211ESA 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

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets since 1965.

The MAX8211ESA belongs to Analog Devices' precision voltage supervisor product line, engineered specifically for reliable, low-power, programmable power-rail monitoring in mission-critical embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX8211ESA in a microprocessor system?

The MAX8211ESA serves as a programmable undervoltage detector that monitors system supply rails and asserts an active-low output when the threshold voltage drops below 1.15V. In microprocessor systems, it provides power-fail warning by triggering NMI or reset signals before brownout occurs. Its 5µA quiescent current and ±40mV accuracy make MAX8211ESA ideal for maintaining system integrity during voltage transients without burdening the power budget.

Can the MAX8211ESA be used for overvoltage detection?

No-the MAX8211ESA is configured for undervoltage detection only, activating its output when the THRESH pin voltage falls *below* the 1.15V internal reference. For overvoltage detection, the MAX8212ESA variant is required, which triggers when THRESH exceeds 1.15V. Attempting overvoltage use with MAX8211ESA would result in inverted logic behavior and unreliable fault signaling.

What is the purpose of the HYST pin on the MAX8211ESA?

The HYST pin on the MAX8211ESA is an open-drain p-channel output that supplies programmable positive feedback current to the THRESH node via an external resistor (R3). This creates a controllable hysteresis band-typically ~75mV in reference designs-to prevent output oscillation during slow-moving or noisy supply transitions. The HYST pin enables robust, chatter-free switching without requiring external comparators or Schmitt triggers.

Does the MAX8211ESA require external components to set its trip voltage?

Yes-the MAX8211ESA relies on an external resistor divider (R1 and R2) connected to the THRESH pin to scale the monitored supply voltage down to match its internal 1.15V reference. For example, detecting a 5.0V rail dropping below 4.5V uses R1 = 750kΩ and R2 = 2.2MΩ. No external reference or trimming is needed, but resistor tolerance directly impacts overall trip accuracy.

Is the MAX8211ESA pin-compatible with the legacy ICL8211?

Yes-the MAX8211ESA is specified as a plug-in replacement for the bipolar ICL8211 in applications with supply voltages under 16.5V. It shares identical SO-8 pinout, THRESH/HYST/OUT/V+/GND assignments, and functional behavior-but offers improved performance including 5µA vs. ~100µA quiescent current, tighter reference tolerance, and higher hysteresis output drive. Layout reuse is supported, though compensation may be needed in closed-loop zener applications.