Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9020EKA+T

Overview

MAX9020EKA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual, nanoPower, open-drain comparator in an 8-pin SOT23 package, featuring Beyond-the-Rails™ inputs (VEE − 0.2V to VCC + 0.2V), 0.85μA supply current at 1.8V, 4mV internal hysteresis, and guaranteed operation from 1.8V to 5.5V. It enables ultra-low-power threshold detection in battery monitoring and telemetry systems where rail-to-rail input range and minimal supply glitching are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9020EKA+T datasheet, MAX9020EKA+T pinout, MAX9020EKA+T application, or MAX9020EKA+T equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated dual-comparator pin mapping, confirmed open-drain output behavior with pull-up dependency, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for mixed-voltage sensing designs.

Technical Context

The MAX9020EKA+T implements two independent comparators with open-drain outputs-requiring external pull-up resistors-and no internal voltage reference. Its input stage supports common-mode voltages beyond supply rails by ±200mV, enabling direct ground- or supply-line sensing without level-shifting. The break-before-make output architecture suppresses supply-current surges during switching, eliminating typical comparator-induced power-supply glitches.

Each comparator features 4mV internal hysteresis to prevent oscillation on slow or noisy inputs, and operates across −40°C to +85°C with input offset voltage ≤5mV (max) and propagation delay of 7µs (high-to-low) at 1.8V. Output leakage is ≤1µA at 5.5V, and sink capability reaches 3mA at VCC = 1.8V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9020EKA+T is housed in an 8-pin SOT23 package (package code T833+2, outline 21-0078), with exposed pad not electrically connected. Pin 5 and Pin 8 are No Connect (N.C.) and must remain unconnected per datasheet.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual open-drain comparator applications.

Compared with TLV3702IDR and LMV7235M5X, MAX9020EKA+T uniquely combines ultra-low 0.85μA supply current, true Beyond-the-Rails™ input operation, and integrated 4mV hysteresis in an open-drain configuration-enabling simpler, more robust low-power sensing without external components or level shifters.

Availability

MAX9020EKA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 2-cell battery monitoring, telemetry sensor nodes, medical instrument threshold detection, and automotive cabin sensor interfaces requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX9020EKA+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 delivers nanoPower dual comparators optimized for battery-critical systems-emphasizing ultra-low ICC, rail-exceeding inputs, and glitch-free switching to maximize runtime and signal integrity.

FAQ

What is the function of Pin 1 (REF) on MAX9020EKA+T?

Pin 1 on MAX9020EKA+T is labeled REF but is internally unconnected - the MAX9020 variant does not include an internal voltage reference. This pin must remain unconnected per the datasheet. Unlike MAX9017/MAX9018, MAX9020EKA+T relies entirely on external reference or resistor-divider thresholds. Using Pin 1 as a reference would result in no output or undefined behavior.

Does MAX9020EKA+T support operation below 1.8V?

No, MAX9020EKA+T is guaranteed to operate only down to 1.8V supply voltage per its Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. Operation below 1.8V may cause unpredictable output states, increased propagation delay, or failure to switch. For sub-1.8V applications, consider discrete MOSFET-based comparators or specialized ultra-low-voltage alternatives outside the MAX9015–MAX9020 family.

Can MAX9020EKA+T drive a 10kΩ pull-up resistor to 5V while powered from 1.8V?

Yes - MAX9020EKA+T's open-drain output is rated for up to +6V on OUT pins when VEE = 0V, allowing safe interface with 5V pull-ups even when VCC = 1.8V. The output leakage current remains ≤1µA at 5.5V, ensuring reliable high-state definition. However, rise time increases with larger RC time constants; for 10kΩ + 15pF, tRISE is ~1.6µs per datasheet.

Is MAX9020EKA+T qualified for automotive applications?

MAX9020EKA+T is not AEC-Q100 qualified. While it operates across −40°C to +85°C and meets industrial reliability standards, only specific /V-grade variants in the MAX9015–MAX9020 family (e.g., MAX9020EVK/V+) carry AEC-Q100 Grade 3 qualification. For automotive use, confirm part number suffix and consult the official Maxim/Analog Devices automotive product list before design-in.

How does the 4mV internal hysteresis affect threshold accuracy in MAX9020EKA+T?

The 4mV internal hysteresis in MAX9020EKA+T creates a fixed 4mV difference between rising- and falling-input trip points - e.g., if the nominal threshold is 1.200V, VTHR ≈ 1.202V and VTHF ≈ 1.198V. This band prevents oscillation but introduces a small uncertainty window; for applications requiring precise single-point thresholds, external hysteresis adjustment or post-processing compensation may be needed. The hysteresis is temperature-stable and does not degrade over time.