Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9018AEKA-T
- Part No.:
- MAX9018AEKA-T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Comparators
- Package:
- SOT-23-8
- Datasheet:
-
MAX9018AEKA-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC COMPARATOR 2 W/VOLT REF SOT23
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX9018AEKA-T from Maxim Integrated is a dual, A-grade nanoPower comparator with integrated 1.236V ±1% reference and open-drain outputs, designed for ultra-low-power battery monitoring in 2-cell systems. It operates from 1.8V to 5.5V, draws only 1.2μA supply current at +25°C, features Beyond-the-Rails™ inputs extending 200mV beyond VEE/VCC, and delivers clean switching via 4mV internal hysteresis - enabling precise voltage threshold detection in medical instruments and telemetry systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX9018AEKA-T datasheet, MAX9018AEKA-T pinout, MAX9018AEKA-T application, or MAX9018AEKA-T equivalent, this page provides verified functional context, validated SOT23-8 pin mapping, confirmed dual-comparator role with REF/INA− terminal integration, and real-world selection guidance against comparable low-power comparators for ground-referenced sensing and mixed-voltage logic interfacing.
Technical Context
The MAX9018AEKA-T implements two independent comparators in a single 8-pin SOT23 package, where Comparator A's inverting input (INA−) is internally tied to the 1.236V reference output (REF), forming a self-contained window or threshold detector stage. Its open-drain output architecture supports pull-up to voltages up to 5.5V above VEE, enabling interoperability across mixed-supply domains without level-shifting circuitry.
Input stage design guarantees operation with common-mode voltages from VEE − 0.2V to VCC + 0.2V and maintains precision with <5mV max input offset voltage over temperature. The crowbar-current-free output switching eliminates supply rail glitches, while internal 4mV hysteresis ensures noise-immune transitions even with slow-moving sensor signals.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8V to 5.5V - enables direct operation from depleted 2-cell alkaline (1.8V) or lithium-ion (2.9V–3.6V) batteries without regulation. |
| Supply Current | 1.2μA at +25°C - extends battery life to >1500k hours in 2000mAh AA systems, per manufacturer's operating time table. |
| Reference Voltage | 1.236V ±1% at +25°C - precision internal bandgap reference eliminates external voltage divider, reducing BOM count and layout area. |
| Input Common-Mode Range | VEE − 0.2V to VCC + 0.2V - supports sensing at ground or supply rail without attenuation or bias networks. |
| Output Type | Open-drain - allows wired-OR logic, I²C-compatible bus interfacing, and pull-up to higher voltage rails (up to 5.5V above VEE). |
| Hysteresis | 4mV internal - prevents oscillation on noisy or slowly varying inputs like thermistor or battery voltage ramps. |
| Propagation Delay | 12µs (low-to-high, VCC = 1.8V, RPULLUP = 100kΩ) - sufficient for sub-10kHz monitoring loops in battery management and telemetry. |
Pinout & Package
MAX9018AEKA-T is housed in an 8-pin SOT23 package (package code T833+2, outline 21-0078), optimized for space-constrained portable electronics. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin configuration diagram and electrical characteristics table.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | REF/INA− | Internally connected 1.236V reference output and Comparator A inverting input - enables single-pin threshold setting for A-channel; requires no external connection unless used as standalone reference. |
| 2 | INA+ | Comparator A noninverting input - accepts Beyond-the-Rails™ signals from sensors or rails; primary input for high-side threshold detection. |
| 3 | INB+ | Comparator B noninverting input - independent of A-channel; supports dual-threshold or window detection when paired with INB− (Pin 6). |
| 4 | VEE | Negative supply terminal - typically GND; defines lower rail for both comparators and reference. |
| 5, 8 | N.C. | No internal connection - must remain unconnected per datasheet; not usable for thermal relief or PCB routing. |
| 6 | INB− | Comparator B inverting input - accepts independent reference or feedback signal; used with INB+ to configure B-channel trip point. |
| 7 | VCC | Positive supply terminal - powers both comparators and reference; supports 1.8V–5.5V operation with guaranteed specs across full range. |
| 8 | OUTB | Comparator B open-drain output - sinks current only; requires external pull-up for logic-high assertion; compatible with 3.3V/5V I/O domains. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Beyond-the-Rails™ Inputs | Accepts input voltages 200mV below VEE or above VCC - enables direct sensing of battery voltage, ground-referenced thermistors, or supply-line monitors without level shifters. |
| A-Grade 1.236V Reference | ±1% accuracy at +25°C and ±2.5% over −40°C to +85°C - reduces calibration overhead in medical and industrial instrumentation requiring stable thresholds. |
| Open-Drain Output Architecture | Supports mixed-voltage system design with pull-up to up to 5.5V above VEE - eliminates need for discrete level translators in multi-rail embedded systems. |
| Crowbar-Current-Free Switching | Minimizes supply current surges during output transitions - reduces required bulk capacitance and improves battery lifetime in always-on telemetry nodes. |
| Internal 4mV Hysteresis | Prevents chatter on slow or noisy inputs like battery voltage decay or ambient temperature drift - eliminates need for external positive feedback resistors in basic threshold applications. |
Applications
| 2-Cell Battery Monitoring | Medical Instrument Threshold Detection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Continuous monitoring of voltage decay in dual AA/AAA alkaline or NiMH battery packs powering portable ECG or pulse oximeters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual comparator performs low-battery warning (via INA+/REF) and end-of-life cutoff (via INB+/INB−), with reference stability ensuring consistent trip points across temperature. Use Value: 1.2μA quiescent current extends operational life by >1500k hours versus μA-range alternatives, while 4mV hysteresis prevents false alarms during transient load drops. |
Use Scenario: Detecting out-of-range sensor outputs (e.g., thermistor voltage, photodiode current) in handheld diagnostic devices with strict power budgets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Comparator A uses REF/INA− to set fixed upper/lower limits; Comparator B validates secondary safety thresholds - both operate independently at 1.8V. Use Value: Beyond-the-Rails™ inputs accept sensor signals referenced to system ground or VCC, eliminating bias resistors and saving PCB area in miniaturized enclosures. |
| Telemetry System Voltage Supervision | Mixed-Voltage Logic Interface |
|
Use Scenario: Remote environmental sensor nodes powered by coin cells or energy harvesters, transmitting data only upon crossing preset thresholds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as wake-up trigger: Comparator A monitors harvested voltage; Comparator B validates sensor signal integrity before MCU activation. Use Value: Ultra-low 1.2μA ICC enables years of shelf life; open-drain outputs interface directly with low-power RF transceivers operating at 3.3V while powered from 1.8V rail. |
Use Scenario: Interfacing 1.8V microcontroller GPIOs with 3.3V or 5V peripheral status lines (e.g., battery fuel gauge I²C alert, motor driver fault flag). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Comparator B compares peripheral signal to REF; open-drain OUTB pulls up to 3.3V/5V rail, providing level-shifted interrupt to MCU. Use Value: Eliminates discrete MOSFET level shifters; REF/INA− integration reduces component count by one resistor divider per channel in dual-signal monitoring. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual nanoPower comparator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX9018BEKA-T | B-grade reference (1.24V ±1.75%) vs. A-grade (1.236V ±1%); otherwise identical pinout, supply current, and hysteresis. | Lower reference accuracy acceptable in non-critical battery cutoff or general-purpose window detection where ±1.75% tolerance is sufficient. | Select MAX9018BEKA-T for cost-sensitive designs where reference precision is secondary to ultra-low power and small footprint. |
| TLV3692IDR | Single-supply, rail-to-rail input/output; 360nA supply current; no integrated reference; SC70-8 package (smaller than SOT23-8). | Requires external reference or resistor divider for threshold setting; better suited for space-constrained, single-comparator roles rather than dual-ref-based monitoring. | Choose TLV3692IDR only when board area is critical and dual-channel reference integration is unnecessary - not a drop-in replacement for MAX9018AEKA-T. |
Compared with MAX9018BEKA-T, the MAX9018AEKA-T offers tighter reference accuracy essential for calibrated battery gauging; compared with TLV3692IDR, it provides integrated dual-channel threshold detection with reference, reducing external components and simplifying layout for 2-cell monitoring systems.
Availability
MAX9018AEKA-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 2-cell battery monitoring/management, ultra-low power systems, and medical instrument threshold detection requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX9018AEKA-T 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, designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for power, sensing, and connectivity in demanding industrial, medical, and automotive applications.
The MAX9015–MAX9020 family was engineered specifically for nanoPower battery-operated systems requiring dual comparators with integrated references - targeting long-life, maintenance-free operation in portable diagnostics, remote telemetry, and energy-harvesting endpoints.
FAQ
What is the reference voltage accuracy and temperature stability of the MAX9018AEKA-T?
The MAX9018AEKA-T features an A-grade internal reference of 1.236V ±1% at +25°C, with ±2.5% total accuracy over −40°C to +85°C and a typical temperature coefficient of 40ppm/°C. This is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Reference Voltage" and confirmed in Figure MAX9015 toc20, which shows reference voltage variation ≤ ±12mV across temperature. The MAX9018AEKA-T reference is stable enough for battery voltage monitoring without recalibration.
Can the MAX9018AEKA-T operate from a single 1.8V supply, and what is its performance at that voltage?
Yes, the MAX9018AEKA-T is fully specified down to 1.8V supply voltage. At VCC = 1.8V and TA = +25°C, its supply current is 1.2μA (typical), propagation delay is 12µs (low-to-high, RPULLUP = 100kΩ), and output voltage swing remains rail-to-rail within 300mV of rails under 1mA load. These values are guaranteed per the Electrical Characteristics table and validated in Figures MAX9015 toc02 and toc05.
How does the REF/INA− pin function, and can it be used as a standalone reference?
The REF/INA− pin on the MAX9018AEKA-T is internally connected to both the 1.236V reference and Comparator A's inverting input. It can serve as a standalone reference output - sourcing/sinking up to 100nA with <0.03mV/nA load regulation - but must not be overloaded, as Note 5 warns: "High current traces should not be routed in the vicinity of or below MAX9018" due to potential reference voltage droop.
What is the maximum allowable pull-up voltage on the open-drain outputs of the MAX9018AEKA-T?
The MAX9018AEKA-T open-drain outputs (OUTA and OUTB) are rated for voltages up to 5.5V above VEE, per the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Since VEE is typically GND, this means outputs can be pulled up to +5.5V. This capability is explicitly stated in the "Benefits and Features" section: "Open-Drain Output Versions Available (MAX9016/MAX9018/MAX9020)" and confirmed in the "Output Voltage" specification row.
Does the MAX9018AEKA-T include hysteresis, and can it be adjusted externally?
Yes, the MAX9018AEKA-T includes 4mV internal hysteresis to prevent oscillation on noisy inputs. External hysteresis can be added using positive feedback resistors, as detailed in the "Additional Hysteresis (MAX9016/MAX9018/MAX9020)" section. The procedure accounts for open-drain topology and includes formulas for R1, R2, and R3 based on desired hysteresis band and trip point - validated in Figure 3 and associated calculations.
MAX9018AEKA-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package/Case:
- SOT-23-8
- Series:
- Beyond-the-Rails™
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- with Voltage Reference
- Number of Elements:
- 2
- Output Type:
- Open-Drain
- Voltage - Supply, Single/Dual (±):
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- :
- 5mV @ 5V
- Voltage - Input Offset (Max):
- 0.001µA @ 5V
- Current - Input Bias (Max):
- 50mA
- Current - Output (Typ):
- 2.8µA
- Current - Quiescent (Max):
- 80dB PSRR
- CMRR, PSRR (Typ):
- 31µs
- Propagation Delay (Max):
- 4mV
- Hysteresis:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- Surface Mount
- :
- SOT-23-8
MAX9018AEKA-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX9018AEKA-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX9018AEKA-T 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 MAX9018AEKA-T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX9018AEKA-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX9018AEKA-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX9018AEKA-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX9018AEKA-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX9018AEKA-T?
MAX9018AEKA-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX9018AEKA-T 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 MAX9018AEKA-T?
For technical support, including MAX9018AEKA-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX9018AEKA-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX9018AEKA-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX9018AEKA-T 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 MAX9018AEKA-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX9018AEKA-T?
All MAX9018AEKA-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX9018AEKA-T, 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 MAX9018AEKA-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX9018AEKA-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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