Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9038BABT+T

Overview

MAX9038BABT+T from Analog Devices is a micropower, single-supply comparator with integrated 1.23V precision voltage reference in a 6-bump UCSP package. It features rail-to-rail inputs (extending 250mV beyond rails), open-drain output sinking up to 8mA, 400ns propagation delay at 100mV overdrive, and 40μA quiescent supply current - ideal for ultra-low-power battery management and precision level detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9038BABT+T datasheet, MAX9038BABT+T pinout, MAX9038BABT+T application, or MAX9038BABT+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its ±0.4% initial reference accuracy (B-grade), 100ppm/°C tempco, open-drain output architecture, UCSP footprint constraints, and compatibility with 2.5V–5.5V single-supply systems requiring minimal quiescent current and clean switching under slow input transitions.

Technical Context

The MAX9038BABT+T integrates a single high-precision comparator and a laser-trimmed series-mode voltage reference on a CMOS die. Its comparator uses internal ±3mV hysteresis and a unique output stage that limits supply-current surges during switching - eliminating typical supply glitches without external filtering.

The 1.23V reference employs curvature-correction circuitry and thin-film resistors, delivering stable operation across 0–4.7nF capacitive loads and supporting ±500μA sourcing/sinking. Input bias current is 1.0pA typical, common-mode range spans VEE −0.25V to VCC +0.25V, and power-up time is 20μs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9038BABT+T is housed in a 6-bump UCSP (Ultra Compact Silicon Package) measuring 1.5mm × 1.5mm × 0.6mm, optimized for space-constrained portable electronics. The package uses bottom-side bumps for board attachment and requires JEDEC J-STD-020A-compliant reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar comparator + reference applications.

Compared with MAX9038EBT+T, the MAX9038BABT+T trades reference precision for cost and tempco tolerance in less demanding battery monitoring; versus TLV4041DBVR, it delivers system-level integration at the expense of output topology flexibility.

Availability

MAX9038BABT+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision battery management, IR receivers, window comparators, and level translator designs requiring stable component supply across high-mix, low-volume production runs.

Supply support for MAX9038BABT+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

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

The MAX9038–MAX9053 family was designed to integrate precision voltage references with ultra-low-power comparators in miniature packages - targeting space- and energy-constrained applications like portable medical devices and IoT edge sensors.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX9038BABT+T?

The MAX9038BABT+T is rated for operation from −40°C to +125°C. This extended range supports deployment in automotive cabin modules, industrial sensors, and high-reliability portable equipment where ambient temperatures exceed standard commercial limits. The reference voltage remains stable within its specified accuracy across this full range.

Does MAX9038BABT+T require an external pull-up resistor on the output?

Yes, MAX9038BABT+T features an open-drain output and requires an external pull-up resistor to define the high-state voltage level. Typical values range from 10kΩ (for low-speed, low-power) to 1kΩ (for faster rise times). The output can sink up to 8mA, so the resistor value must ensure current stays within safe limits for the driven logic family.

Can the reference output (REF) of MAX9038BABT+T drive a capacitive load?

Yes, the REF pin of MAX9038BABT+T is stable with capacitive loads up to 4.7nF, per the datasheet. This eliminates the need for an output capacitor in most applications. However, adding a small ceramic capacitor (e.g., 100nF) is recommended when the reference feeds a dynamic load or experiences step-current transients to improve transient response and reduce overshoot.

How does the internal hysteresis of MAX9038BABT+T affect threshold accuracy?

The MAX9038BABT+T includes fixed ±3mV internal hysteresis centered on the input offset voltage. This creates a 6mV hysteresis band that prevents oscillation on slow or noisy inputs but introduces a known uncertainty in exact trip-point location. For applications requiring precise, hysteresis-free thresholds, external hysteresis control or post-processing compensation is necessary.

Is MAX9038BABT+T pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX9038–MAX9053 family?

No - MAX9038BABT+T uses a 6-bump UCSP package with specific bump layout (A2/A1/B1/B3/A3/B2), which differs from SOT23 and μMAX variants in the same family. While functional pin functions align (e.g., B3 = REF, A2 = OUT), mechanical compatibility requires matching land patterns. Always verify footprint against Analog Devices' land pattern no. 21-0097 before PCB layout.