Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX913CSA+

Overview

The MAX913CSA+ from Maxim Integrated is a single, ultra-fast, low-power precision TTL comparator with differential inputs and complementary TTL outputs. It delivers 10ns typical propagation delay, ±5V or +5V single-supply operation, input voltage range extending below the negative rail (–0.2V to +3.5V on +5V supply), 0.8mV offset voltage, and stable linear-region operation-ideal for high-speed zero-crossing detection and switching regulator feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the MAX913CSA+ datasheet, MAX913CSA+ pinout, MAX913CSA+ application, or MAX913CSA+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package-specific pin functions, real-world use value in timing-critical analog-digital interfaces, and validated alternative options for design continuity.

Technical Context

The MAX913CSA+ employs a fully differential bipolar input stage with laser-trimmed offset and no built-in hysteresis, enabling high-resolution comparison of slow-moving or low-overdrive signals without oscillation in the linear region. Its latch-enable (LE) input provides transparent or latched output control independent of input slew rate.

It operates from +5V single supply (V− = GND) or ±5V split supplies, with V+ powering both analog and digital sections while V− powers only the analog stage. Input common-mode range spans –5.2V to +3.5V (±5V mode) or –0.2V to +3.5V (+5V mode), and outputs drive standard TTL loads with VOH ≥ 2.4V (IOUT = 10mA) and VOL ≤ 0.4V (ISINK = 10mA).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX913CSA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, 150-mil body width, with gull-wing leads and JEDEC MS-012AC outline. Pin 1 is V+, pin 6 is GND, and all pins are electrically defined per Maxim's official pin description.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LT1016CS8#PBF and ADCMP572BCPZ-REEL7, the MAX913CSA+ uniquely balances 10ns speed, TTL compatibility, latch control, and linear-region stability at 6mA-making it optimal for industrial control and embedded power management where timing precision and interface simplicity are critical.

Availability

MAX913CSA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for zero-crossing detectors, switching regulator feedback loops, and high-speed pulse discriminators requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across temperature.

Supply support for MAX913CSA+ 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX913CSA+ belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, engineered specifically for applications demanding nanosecond timing accuracy, rail-to-rail input capability, and latch-controlled sampling in space- and power-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency for the MAX913CSA+ in latch mode?

The MAX913CSA+ supports a maximum latch-enable (LE) signal rate of 70MHz at +25°C with 5mV input overdrive, rising to 85MHz with 20mV overdrive. This is determined by its 12ns max propagation delay and 7ns latch propagation delay (tLPD). The MAX913CSA+ maintains valid output states under these conditions due to its stable linear-region behavior and absence of output spiking-critical for reliable high-speed sampling in applications like digital oscilloscopes or automated test equipment.

Does the MAX913CSA+ require external hysteresis for noise immunity?

No-the MAX913CSA+ does not require external hysteresis because its internal architecture prevents oscillation in the linear region, even with slow-moving or low-slew-rate inputs. Adding hysteresis degrades resolution by creating an unusable input band (Figure 2 in the datasheet). The MAX913CSA+ achieves noise immunity through low 0.8mV offset voltage, 110dB CMRR, and stable DC biasing-making it ideal for precision zero-crossing detection where hysteresis would introduce timing uncertainty.

Can the MAX913CSA+ operate from a single +3.3V supply?

No-the MAX913CSA+ is specified for +5V single supply (V− = GND) or ±5V dual supply only. Its absolute maximum positive supply is +7V, but electrical characteristics-including VOH ≥ 2.4V and input common-mode range-are guaranteed only at V+ = +5V. Operation at +3.3V is not characterized, and output drive strength, propagation delay, and input range will deviate significantly. For +3.3V systems, consider the MAX9021 or MAX9030 series comparators instead of the MAX913CSA+.

What is the purpose of the LE pin on the MAX913CSA+?

The LE (Latch Enable) pin on the MAX913CSA+ controls whether the comparator output responds dynamically to input changes (LE low) or holds its last valid state (LE high or floating). When LE is asserted, Q and Q̅ retain their logic levels regardless of subsequent input movement-enabling synchronized sampling of transient events. This function is essential in applications like peak-hold circuits, gated measurements, or digital acquisition systems where timing alignment between input and output is critical. The MAX913CSA+ guarantees latch setup and hold times of 0ns and 2ns respectively.

How does the MAX913CSA+ differ from the dual MAX912 in pinout and functionality?

The MAX913CSA+ is a single comparator in 8-pin SO packaging, while the MAX912 is a dual comparator in 16-pin packages (SO or DIP). The MAX913CSA+ shares identical per-channel performance (10ns delay, 0.8mV offset, latch function) with one half of the MAX912 but lacks independent latch controls for multiple channels. Its pinout is simplified: V+, IN+, IN−, V−, LE, GND, Q, Q̅-whereas the MAX912 dedicates separate pins for each comparator's inputs, outputs, and latch enables. Thus, the MAX913CSA+ is optimal for space-constrained single-channel designs, while the MAX912 suits multi-channel systems needing independent gating.