Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX903EPA

Overview

MAX903EPA from Maxim Integrated is a high-speed, low-power quad voltage comparator with differential analog inputs and TTL-logic outputs featuring active internal pull-ups. It delivers 8ns typical propagation delay at 5mV overdrive, consumes 18mW per comparator at +5V, supports ±5V or single +5V analog supply, and includes independent TTL-compatible latch inputs for output state hold. It is used in high-speed A/D converters, line receivers, and PWM circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX903EPA datasheet, MAX903EPA pinout, MAX903EPA application, or MAX903EPA equivalent, key selection criteria include propagation delay consistency across channels, latch timing parameters (tpd+(D), ts, th), analog input common-mode range extending to VEE, TTL output drive capability (VOH ≥ 2.4V, VOL ≤ 0.4V at 8mA), and dual-supply isolation between analog (VCC/VEE) and digital (VDD) domains.

Technical Context

The MAX903EPA integrates four independent high-gain comparators with matched propagation delays (tpd+ = tpd− = 8ns typ at 5mV overdrive, ∆tpd ≤ 2ns max), each with dedicated latch control (LATCH A–D) enabling synchronous sampling. Its analog input stage operates with common-mode range from VEE − 0.1V to VCC − 2.25V and supports rail-to-rail sensing when VEE = GND.

It uses separate analog (VCC, VEE) and digital (VDD) supplies: VCC/VEE accept ±5V or +5V/+10V with VEE grounded; VDD is fixed at +5V. Input offset voltage is 1–3mV over temperature, and power dissipation is 18mW per comparator at +5V operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX903EPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide) rated for −40°C to +85°C operation. Pin assignments are validated per Maxim's official pin configuration diagram for MAX903.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed voltage comparator applications.

Compared with MAX903EPA, MAX9203ESA offers identical functionality with halved power consumption and extended temperature rating, while LM339MTX/NOPB provides broad supply flexibility and cost advantage at the expense of speed, latch capability, and TTL output drive - making it unsuitable for high-speed sampling or synchronized capture.

Availability

MAX903EPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed A/D converters, line receivers, and PWM circuits requiring stable component supply throughout extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX903EPA 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 high-speed interface ICs.

The MAX900–MAX903 family was designed for high-speed data acquisition and real-time signal discrimination, targeting applications demanding sub-10ns propagation delay, latch-controlled sampling, and dual-supply noise isolation.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the MAX903EPA?

The MAX903EPA is specified for −40°C to +85°C operation, matching its "E" grade designation. This extended industrial temperature range ensures reliable performance in harsh environments such as motor drives, industrial PLCs, and outdoor communication equipment. All electrical characteristics-including propagation delay, input offset voltage, and output drive-are guaranteed across this full range. The device uses a plastic DIP package qualified to these limits, with junction temperature rated up to +160°C.

Does the MAX903EPA support single-supply operation?

Yes, the MAX903EPA supports true single-supply operation with VEE tied to ground and VCC supplied at +5V to +10V. Its analog input common-mode range extends to VEE − 0.1V, enabling ground-referenced signal sensing. The digital supply VDD remains fixed at +5V. This configuration is validated in Maxim's Figure 1A and Figure 1B schematics, and power dissipation remains at 18mW per comparator under +5V single-supply conditions.

What is the function of the LATCH pin on the MAX903EPA?

The LATCH pin on the MAX903EPA controls transparent vs. latched operation of Channel A's output. When driven high (≥1.4V), the comparator responds immediately to input changes; when driven low (≤1.4V), the output state is held constant regardless of subsequent input transitions. Timing parameters-minimum setup time (ts = 2ns), hold time (th = 1ns), and disable pulse width (tpw(D) = 10ns)-are specified to ensure reliable capture. This function is absent on MAX901 but present on MAX900/MAX902/MAX903.

Can the MAX903EPA be powered from split supplies like ±5V?

Yes, the MAX903EPA supports split analog supplies: VCC = +5V and VEE = −5V, with VDD = +5V and GND as the digital reference. This configuration (Figure 1C in the datasheet) isolates analog and digital grounds, reducing noise coupling in mixed-signal systems. Input common-mode range becomes −5.1V to +2.75V, and absolute maximum ratings allow VCC-to-VEE up to +12V. Power dissipation remains 18mW per comparator under these conditions.

Is the MAX903EPA still recommended for new designs?

No-the MAX903EPA is Not Recommended for New Designs (NRND), as stated in Maxim's official documentation. The underlying wafer process is obsolete, and Maxim recommends the pin-compatible MAX9203 as a direct upgrade offering identical speed (8ns) and half the power (9mW/comparator). While MAX903EPA remains available for legacy support, new designs should use MAX9203ESA or other modern alternatives to ensure long-term supply and enhanced specifications.