Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX873ACSA

Overview

The MAX873ACSA from Maxim Integrated is a precision +2.5V voltage reference IC with ±0.06% initial accuracy, 7ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, and 3.8µV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) output noise-designed for high-resolution data acquisition in battery-powered or thermally constrained systems such as portable digital multimeters and 12-bit ADC front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX873ACSA datasheet, MAX873ACSA pinout, MAX873ACSA application, or MAX873ACSA equivalent, this device delivers stable low-drift reference performance with TRIM-adjustable output (±100mV), integrated temperature-proportional TEMP output (570mV at +25°C), and operation from +4.5V to +18V supply-critical for precision analog signal chains requiring long-term stability and minimal thermal error.

Technical Context

The MAX873ACSA employs a proprietary curvature-corrected bandgap core with laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve 7ppm/°C max drift over –40°C to +85°C. Its internal architecture supports both sourcing (10mA max) and sinking (2mA max) load currents while maintaining <15ppm/mA load regulation and <4ppm/V line regulation.

It integrates a dedicated TEMP pin delivering 1.9mV/°C sensitivity (570mV at +25°C), enabling direct die-temperature monitoring or compensation without external sensors. The TRIM pin allows ±6% output adjustment via a single 100kΩ potentiometer, supporting system-level calibration without redesign.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX873ACSA is housed in an 8-pin SOIC (SO) package (package code S8-4), 3.9mm × 4.9mm body, 1.27mm pitch, lead-free compliant. Pins 1 and 8 are internally connected (I.C.) and must remain unconnected on PCB; Pin 7 is No Connection (N.C.).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF02CP and ADR3425ARJZ-R7, the MAX873ACSA uniquely combines direct +2.5V output, integrated temperature sensing, ±4% trim capability, and sub-500µA supply current - making it the only option among the three suitable for compact, self-calibrating, battery-operated precision instruments.

Availability

MAX873ACSA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable digital multimeters, 12-bit data-acquisition systems, and low-power test equipment requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and consistent parametric performance.

Supply support for MAX873ACSA 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, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX873ACSA belongs to Maxim's precision voltage reference product line, engineered specifically for applications demanding low drift, low noise, and integrated diagnostics-such as portable instrumentation and high-reliability sensor interfaces.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for the MAX873ACSA?

The MAX873ACSA supports an absolute maximum input voltage of +20V on the IN pin relative to GND. However, its specified operating range is +4.5V to +18V. Exceeding +18V may degrade long-term reliability or cause parametric shift, even if within absolute ratings. For robust design, maintain VIN ≤ +18V and use transient protection if exposed to surge conditions.

Can the MAX873ACSA drive a 10µF output capacitor without instability?

Yes, the MAX873ACSA is explicitly characterized as stable with capacitive loads up to 100µF. A 10µF output capacitor improves transient response to load steps and reduces output ripple in noisy environments. Place the capacitor as close as possible to the OUT and GND pins, using low-ESR ceramic or polymer types for best performance.

How does the TEMP pin output scale with temperature, and what is its accuracy?

The TEMP pin delivers 570mV at +25°C with a nominal sensitivity of 1.9mV/°C. Over –40°C to +85°C, the output varies linearly within ±5mV offset and ±0.1mV/°C gain error. This enables ±1°C die-temperature estimation when calibrated at two points, supporting compensation algorithms or thermal fault detection in the MAX873ACSA-based system.

Is the MAX873ACSA pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX873/MAX875/MAX876 family?

Yes, all MAX873, MAX875, and MAX876 variants share identical 8-pin SOIC pinouts and electrical interface definitions-including IN, TEMP, GND, TRIM, and OUT locations. The MAX873ACSA can be substituted with MAX875AESA+ or MAX876AESA+ on the same footprint, provided the system accommodates their +5V or +10V outputs and adjusted supply voltage requirements.

What is the typical turn-on time for the MAX873ACSA to settle within 0.1% of final output?

The MAX873ACSA typically settles to within 0.1% of its final +2.500V output in 150µs when unloaded. With a 1µF output capacitor, turn-on time increases to approximately 300µs due to RC filtering. Ensure adequate power-rail ramp time and avoid enabling downstream circuitry before this period to prevent reference-related startup errors in the MAX873ACSA-based design.