Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX916ESE+

Overview

The MAX916ESE+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual high-speed TTL voltage comparator with master/slave flip-flop architecture, delivering 6ns typical propagation delay, 2.4mV input resolution, and operation from single +5V or dual ±5V supplies - used in synchronous data discriminators and high-speed line receivers.

For engineers reviewing the MAX916ESE+ datasheet, MAX916ESE+ pinout, MAX916ESE+ application, or MAX916ESE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include clocked oscillation-free operation, input common-mode range extending below ground, complementary TTL outputs, and -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature rating.

Technical Context

The MAX916ESE+ integrates two independent comparator channels, each with fully differential input amplifiers, negative edge-triggered master/slave D flip-flops, and complementary TTL output stages. Its architecture decouples input sampling from output update, eliminating oscillation without requiring minimum input slew rate.

Each channel accepts inputs from V− − 0.1V to V+ − 2.2V (e.g., −5.1V to +2.8V on ±5V supplies), supports 50MHz max clock frequency, and delivers matched Q/Q̅ outputs with ≤4.0ns propagation-delay skew under 5mV overdrive.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX916ESE+ is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package with 1.27mm pitch, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, 10.3mm × 5.3mm body size, and exposed pad not present.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX916ESE+, MAX916CSE offers identical performance at lower cost but lacks industrial temperature qualification, while MAX906ESE+ trades TTL compatibility and single-supply flexibility for faster ECL switching - neither is pin-compatible nor functionally interchangeable without board-level redesign.

Availability

MAX916ESE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed A/D converters, synchronous data discriminators, and peak detectors requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX916ESE+ 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 high-speed interface ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX915/MAX916 family was engineered specifically for ultra-high-speed, oscillation-free threshold detection in clocked systems - targeting applications where traditional comparators fail due to metastability or overdrive-dependent delay.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the MAX916ESE+?

The MAX916ESE+ is specified for operation from −40°C to +85°C. This industrial temperature grade ensures reliable performance in demanding environments such as factory automation controllers, outdoor instrumentation, and telecom infrastructure. The device undergoes full characterization across this range, including propagation delay, input offset voltage, and output drive strength - all guaranteed per the datasheet's "E" grade specifications.

Does the MAX916ESE+ require external hysteresis?

No, the MAX916ESE+ does not require external hysteresis. Its internal negative edge-triggered master/slave D flip-flop architecture inherently prevents oscillation during input transitions through the linear region. Adding external hysteresis resistors is ineffective and discouraged - the datasheet explicitly states hysteresis is "unnecessary and impossible to add externally" due to the clocked sampling mechanism.

Can the MAX916ESE+ operate from a single +5V supply?

Yes, the MAX916ESE+ supports single +5V operation. To configure it, connect V− to GND. In this mode, the input common-mode range extends from −0.1V to +2.8V, enabling true ground-sensing capability. The TTL outputs remain fully compatible with standard logic families, and all timing parameters (e.g., 6ns propagation delay, 1.0–2.0ns setup time) are maintained per the datasheet's single-supply test conditions.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the MAX916ESE+?

The MAX916ESE+ supports clock frequencies exceeding 50MHz. This is derived from its 6ns typical propagation delay and 1.5ns setup time - allowing valid data sampling at ≥160MHz input toggle rate (since output toggles on every falling clock edge). System-level maximum clock rate depends on PCB layout, load capacitance, and clock edge monotonicity; the datasheet specifies clock rise/fall times must not exceed 100ns for reliable triggering.

How does the MAX916ESE+ differ from the MAX915 series?

The MAX916ESE+ is the dual-channel version of the MAX915 single comparator. Both share identical architecture, timing, and electrical specs per channel - including 6ns propagation delay, 2.4mV resolution (MAX916) vs. 2.0mV (MAX915), and clocked master/slave operation. The MAX916ESE+ uses a 16-pin narrow SO package with duplicated signal paths (CLKA/CLKB, QA/QA̅/QB/QB̅), whereas MAX915 variants use 8-pin packages. Pin compatibility is not maintained between the two families.