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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8738EUA+
- Part No.:
- MAX8738EUA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Video Processing
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX8738EUA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC VIDEO FILTER 8UMAX
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:5,979
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Product details
Overview
MAX8738EUA+ from Maxim Integrated is an I²C-programmable VCOM calibrator IC for TFT LCD panels, functioning as a solid-state replacement for mechanical potentiometers in VCOM voltage adjustment circuits. It features a 7-bit ratiometric DAC, EEPROM storage for persistent VCOM settings, and operates from 4.5V to 20V AVDD supply with <60µA quiescent current. It sinks programmable current into an external resistive divider to precisely set VCOM in notebook computers and LCD TVs.
For engineers reviewing the MAX8738EUA+ datasheet, MAX8738EUA+ pinout, MAX8738EUA+ application, or MAX8738EUA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world VCOM calibration use cases, and validated alternative parts - all grounded in Maxim's official specifications and evaluation circuit documentation.
Technical Context
The MAX8738EUA+ implements a ratiometric 7-bit DAC whose sink-current output (IOUT) scales linearly with AVDD, ensuring monotonicity across -40°C to +85°C. Its internal 3.6V LDO (VDD) powers logic and interface circuitry, while HV pin (16.1V–28V) enables EEPROM programming using the TFT panel's VGON supply - eliminating need for external high-voltage sources.
I²C communication uses fixed 7-bit slave address 0x5E (write-only), supporting five commands: increment/decrement DAC (00h/FFh), EEPROM write (AAh), EEPROM load (55h), and direct DAC write (11h). The device enters program mode automatically upon command receipt (except AAh), enabling EEPROM writes only when HV ≥15.6V and internal timing completes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (AVDD) | 4.5V to 20V - powers analog core and sets DAC full-scale range via ratiometric scaling |
| Sink Current Resolution | 7-bit (128 steps) - enables fine-grained VCOM adjustment down to ~15.75mV in typical designs |
| EEPROM Programming Supply | HV pin: 16.1V–28V - sourced directly from TFT VGON rail; no external HV generator needed |
| I²C Interface | Standard-mode (100kHz), 7-bit address 0x5E - reuses existing LCD panel I²C bus; no extra connector pins |
| Quiescent Current (AVDD) | ≤60µA at 20V - minimizes power draw in always-on display bias circuits |
| Output Settling Time | 20µs to ±0.5 LSB - ensures rapid VCOM stabilization after DAC updates during panel calibration |
| Package | 8-pin µMAX (3.05mm × 3.05mm) - compact footprint compatible with space-constrained LCD module layouts |
Pinout & Package
MAX8738EUA+ is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3.05mm × 3.05mm, 0.6mm height), lead-free and RoHS-compliant per + suffix designation. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; top-view orientation follows standard µMAX pin numbering (counterclockwise from mark).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - OUT | Adjustable sink-current output | Connects to R1/R2 voltage divider node; sinks programmable current to lower VCOM below AVDD-derived maximum |
| 2 - AVDD | Analog high-voltage supply | 4.5V–20V input powering DAC, EEPROM, and ratiometric reference; bypass with 0.1µF capacitor |
| 3 - VDD | Internal 3.6V regulator output | Supplies internal logic and I²C interface; not for external loads; bypass with 0.1µF capacitor |
| 4 - GND | System ground reference | Common return for AVDD, VDD, HV, and signal paths; low-impedance connection required |
| 5 - HV | EEPROM programming high-voltage supply | 16.1V–28V input (e.g., TFT VGON); enables EEPROM writes; draws <1µA when idle |
| 6 - SDA | I²C serial data line | Open-drain bidirectional line; requires external pull-up; acknowledges commands at 0x5E address |
| 7 - SCL | I²C serial clock input | Master-generated clock up to 100kHz; synchronizes all command transfers and DAC updates |
| 8 - SET | Full-scale sink-current adjustment | Resistor (RSET) to GND sets IOUT full-scale: ISET = VAVDD/20 × RSET; determines VCOM adjustment range |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ratiometric 7-bit DAC | Output current scales with AVDD, eliminating drift from supply variation and enabling stable VCOM over wide input ranges |
| Integrated EEPROM | Stores last DAC setting; auto-loads on power-up - eliminates manual recalibration after power cycles or panel swaps |
| VCOM calibration automation | Replaces mechanical potentiometers; enables factory-line automated VCOM tuning via I²C commands without physical access |
| Single-supply HV programming | HV pin accepts TFT VGON voltage (16.1V–28V), removing need for dedicated EEPROM programming supplies or charge pumps |
| Low-power operation | 60µA max AVDD current and <1µA HV standby current minimize thermal impact and extend system battery life in portable displays |
Applications
| LCD Panel Calibration | Notebook Computer Displays |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Factory-line VCOM optimization during TFT LCD module assembly, where mechanical pot adjustment is slow and inconsistent. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: VCOM calibrator IC sinking programmable current into R1/R2 divider to set precise backplane voltage. Use Value: Enables repeatable, software-controlled VCOM tuning with 128-step resolution - reducing calibration time by >70% vs. manual potentiometers. |
Use Scenario: Dynamic VCOM compensation during notebook lid open/close or brightness changes to maintain image uniformity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: I²C-configurable VCOM sink that adjusts in <20µs to counteract panel voltage drift under varying thermal/load conditions. Use Value: Maintains consistent grayscale fidelity across operating temperature (-40°C to +85°C) without hardware redesign. |
| LCD TV Backlight Integration | Industrial Display Modules |
|
Use Scenario: Coordinating VCOM level with LED backlight dimming in large-format LCD TVs to suppress flicker and crosstalk. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: I²C-synchronized VCOM calibrator triggered alongside backlight PWM signals to align voltage transitions. Use Value: Eliminates visible artifacts during dynamic contrast modulation by ensuring VCOM settles within 20µs of backlight step changes. |
Use Scenario: Long-lifecycle medical or industrial displays requiring field-updatable VCOM settings without disassembly. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: EEPROM-based VCOM controller allowing remote recalibration via service port I²C commands. Use Value: Supports >100,000 EEPROM write cycles - enabling lifetime recalibration without component replacement. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar VCOM calibration applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX8739EUA+ | Same 8-pin µMAX package and I²C interface, but includes integrated VCOM buffer amplifier (rail-to-rail output) - eliminates need for external op-amp in high-impedance divider designs | Required when VCOM node drives >100pF capacitance or needs >10mA drive strength; adds 1.5mA quiescent current | Select MAX8739EUA+ if external VCOM buffer is absent and panel layout lacks space for discrete op-amp + decoupling |
| MAX1512EUA+ | Pin-compatible 8-pin µMAX variant with 1-Wire interface instead of I²C; identical DAC, EEPROM, and HV programming architecture | Suitable for systems lacking I²C bus but providing 1-Wire master (e.g., microcontrollers with 1-Wire peripherals); slower command rate (~10ms/bit) | Choose MAX1512EUA+ only when I²C resources are exhausted and 1-Wire infrastructure already exists on target PCB |
Compared with MAX8738EUA+, MAX8739EUA+ adds buffer drive capability at higher supply current, while MAX1512EUA+ trades I²C speed for interface flexibility - neither is pin- or firmware-compatible without hardware or firmware revision.
Availability
MAX8738EUA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD panel calibration, notebook computer displays, and LCD TV backplane biasing requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed lead-free compliance.
Supply support for MAX8738EUA+ 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The MAX8738EUA+ belongs to Maxim's TFT LCD power and timing management product line, engineered specifically to replace electromechanical VCOM adjustment in cost-sensitive, high-volume display modules.
FAQ
What is the function of the HV pin on the MAX8738EUA+?
The HV pin on the MAX8738EUA+ supplies the high voltage (16.1V–28V) required to program its internal EEPROM. It is designed to connect directly to the TFT LCD's VGON supply, eliminating the need for an external high-voltage source. When HV drops below 15.6V, EEPROM programming is disabled and HV supply current falls below 1µA. This design ensures MAX8738EUA+ integrates seamlessly into existing LCD power architectures without added components.
Can the MAX8738EUA+ operate without an external RSET resistor?
No - the MAX8738EUA+ requires an external RSET resistor connected from pin 8 (SET) to GND to define the full-scale sink current (ISET = VAVDD/20 × RSET). Without RSET, the DAC output cannot be scaled, and VCOM adjustment range becomes undefined. RSET values between 2.25kΩ and 45kΩ are supported per datasheet; typical selection is 24.9kΩ for balanced resolution and range in 10V AVDD designs. Omitting RSET renders MAX8738EUA+ nonfunctional.
How does the MAX8738EUA+ ensure monotonicity across temperature?
The MAX8738EUA+ guarantees monotonic DAC output over -40°C to +85°C via ratiometric design: its 7-bit DAC current scales proportionally with AVDD, and internal trimming compensates for process and temperature drift. Electrical characteristics confirm differential nonlinearity of ±1 LSB across full temperature range, and integral nonlinearity plots show ≤0.5 LSB error. This ensures every DAC code increment reliably increases VCOM sink current - critical for repeatable factory calibration. MAX8738EUA+ achieves this without external references or calibration routines.
Is the MAX8738EUA+ pin-compatible with the MAX8739EUA+?
Yes - the MAX8738EUA+ and MAX8739EUA+ share identical 8-pin µMAX packaging, pinout, and power/interface connections. However, MAX8739EUA+ integrates a rail-to-rail VCOM buffer amplifier on the OUT pin, whereas MAX8738EUA+ provides only a current sink. Substituting MAX8738EUA+ for MAX8739EUA+ requires adding an external op-amp if the VCOM node demands voltage buffering or high drive strength. The MAX8738EUA+ remains fully functional in pure current-sink configurations.
What I²C commands does the MAX8738EUA+ support, and how are they used in production calibration?
The MAX8738EUA+ supports five I²C commands: 00h (decrement DAC), FFh (increment DAC), AAh (write DAC to EEPROM), 55h (load EEPROM to DAC), and 11h (write specific DAC value). In production, calibration systems issue iterative 00h/FFh commands while measuring display uniformity, then lock the optimal setting with AAh. Post-calibration, 55h restores the setting on power-up. All commands use slave address 0x5E and require START/STOP framing - enabling fully automated, script-driven MAX8738EUA+ calibration without manual intervention.
MAX8738EUA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Calibrator
- Applications:
- Video Display
- Standards:
- -
- Control Interface:
- I2C
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-uMAX/uSOP
MAX8738EUA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX8738EUA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX8738EUA+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX8738EUA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX8738EUA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX8738EUA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX8738EUA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX8738EUA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX8738EUA+?
MAX8738EUA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX8738EUA+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX8738EUA+?
For technical support, including MAX8738EUA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX8738EUA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX8738EUA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX8738EUA+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX8738EUA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX8738EUA+?
All MAX8738EUA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX8738EUA+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX8738EUA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX8738EUA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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