Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9100ESA

Overview

MAX9100ESA from Analog Devices is a micropower, single-supply comparator optimized for ultra-low-voltage operation (1.0V to 5.5V), featuring 5μA quiescent current, 4μs propagation delay, rail-to-rail CMOS push-pull output, and operation across –40°C to +85°C - deployed in battery-powered instrumentation and portable communication devices.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9100ESA datasheet, MAX9100ESA pinout, MAX9100ESA application, or MAX9100ESA equivalent, this device is selected for low-power sensing, logic-level translation, and single-cell voltage monitoring where supply headroom is constrained and output drive capability up to 5mA is required.

Technical Context

The MAX9100ESA uses BiCMOS input stage architecture enabling rail-to-rail input common-mode range (0V to V_CC–0.2V) and stable bias current (±5nA typical within spec range). Its push-pull output stage delivers true rail-to-rail swing with sourcing/sinking capability up to 5mA at V_CC ≥ 1.2V.

Propagation delay remains under 4μs across 1.0V–5.5V supply range, with minimal variation over temperature (–40°C to +85°C) and input overdrive (≥50mV). Internal 2mV hysteresis enhances noise immunity without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9100ESA is housed in an 8-pin plastic SO (SOIC-8) package (package code S8-2), with exposed pad not present and RoHS-compliant lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV3701CDR and MAX9060ASA+, the MAX9100ESA uniquely combines 1.0V operation, 5μA ICC, and rail-to-rail push-pull output - making it irreplaceable in space-constrained, single-cell systems requiring active output drive without external components.

Availability

MAX9100ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, portable communication devices, and single-cell voltage monitoring requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX9100ESA 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 MAX9100ESA belongs to the MAX9100/MAX9101 micropower comparator family, designed specifically for ultra-low-voltage, single-cell battery systems where supply current and input/output voltage headroom are severely constrained.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage supported by the MAX9100ESA?

The MAX9100ESA operates down to 1.0V, fully specified across –40°C to +85°C. At 1.0V, propagation delay is 3.3μs (typ), output low voltage is 15–75mV (sink 0.5mA), and quiescent current is 5.0μA (typ). This enables direct use with single primary cells without regulation - a key differentiator versus most comparators requiring ≥1.6V.

Does the MAX9100ESA have rail-to-rail input capability?

Yes, the MAX9100ESA features a rail-to-rail input common-mode range from 0V to V_CC–0.2V, with full specification across that span. True operation to V_CC is possible but increases input bias current to ~800nA and ICC to ~7μA - acceptable for many low-speed applications where extended range is critical, such as sensing near-supply voltages in battery fuel gauging.

Can the MAX9100ESA drive a 5mA load at 1.2V supply?

Yes - the MAX9100ESA's push-pull CMOS output is rated to source and sink 5mA at V_CC = 1.2V. Under those conditions, V_OH is 60–120mV below V_CC, and V_OL is 45–120mV above GND. This active drive eliminates external pull-up resistors and supports direct interface with 1.2V logic families or low-threshold MOSFET gates.

Is the MAX9100ESA pin-compatible with the MAX9101ESA?

No - while both share the same SO-8 package (S8-2) and identical pin 1–8 physical layout, their output stages differ fundamentally: MAX9100ESA has push-pull CMOS output (pin 6 actively drives high/low), whereas MAX9101ESA has open-drain output (pin 6 sinks only, requiring external pull-up). Swapping them requires schematic and layout changes to accommodate the output topology.

What is the purpose of the NC pins (1, 5, 8) on the MAX9100ESA SO-8 package?

Pins 1, 5, and 8 on the MAX9100ESA are No Connection (N.C.) terminals - internally unconnected silicon nodes. They must remain unconnected in the schematic and may be left floating or tied to GND on the PCB for mechanical stability or EMI reduction, but they serve no electrical function and do not affect MAX9100ESA operation or specifications.