Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX919ESA+

Overview

MAX919ESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a nanopower, push-pull output comparator without internal reference, housed in an 8-pin SO package. It operates from +1.8V to +5.5V, draws only 380nA supply current, features Beyond-the-Rails™ inputs extending 200mV beyond supply rails, and delivers rail-to-rail CMOS output swing with ±8mA drive capability - ideal for ultra-low-power 2-cell battery monitoring and threshold detection in portable medical instruments.

For engineers reviewing the MAX919ESA+ datasheet, MAX919ESA+ pinout, MAX919ESA+ application, or MAX919ESA+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, confirmed application use cases, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts - all grounded in Maxim's official MAX917–MAX920 family documentation.

Technical Context

The MAX919ESA+ implements a break-before-make push-pull output stage that eliminates crowbar current during switching, minimizing supply glitches and dynamic power surges. Its input stage supports common-mode voltages from VEE − 0.2V to VCC + 0.2V and exhibits <1nA input bias current with no phase reversal under overdrive.

This device belongs to the MAX917–MAX920 family sharing identical core architecture: internal 4mV hysteresis ensures clean switching on slow signals, and its supply current remains stable across temperature (−40°C to +85°C) and output transition frequency - critical for battery lifetime in telemetry and remote sensing systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX919ESA+ uses an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad not electrically connected. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; pins are numbered counter-clockwise. The device has two no-connect (N.C.) pins to support pin-compatible variants in the same footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX919ESA+, the MAX919EUK+T offers identical performance in a smaller package but reduced thermal mass and no N.C. flexibility, while the TLV3691IDBVR trades input range compliance for marginal ICC reduction - making MAX919ESA+ the optimal choice for robust, rail-agnostic battery monitoring.

Availability

MAX919ESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 2-cell battery monitoring, ultra-low-power telemetry, and medical instrument sensing requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX919ESA+ 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 and mixed-signal ICs for power, sensing, and interface applications in industrial, medical, and consumer systems.

The MAX917–MAX920 family was engineered specifically for nanopower, rail-agnostic threshold detection in battery-critical systems - emphasizing supply current stability, input range flexibility, and glitch-free switching over speed or gain.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX919ESA+?

The MAX919ESA+ is fully specified and guaranteed over the industrial temperature range of −40°C to +85°C. All key parameters - including supply current (380nA), input offset voltage (1mV typ), and propagation delay - are characterized across this range. No derating or external compensation is required for operation within these limits, making MAX919ESA+ suitable for automotive cabin modules and outdoor telemetry devices.

Does MAX919ESA+ include an internal voltage reference?

No, MAX919ESA+ does not include an internal voltage reference. It belongs to the reference-less variant of the MAX917–MAX920 family. Unlike the MAX917ESA+ (which integrates a 1.245V ±1.5% reference), MAX919ESA+ relies on external reference or resistor-divider networks for threshold setting - reducing supply current to 380nA and simplifying designs where reference accuracy is managed elsewhere in the system.

Can MAX919ESA+ drive an LED directly?

Yes, MAX919ESA+ can drive a standard indicator LED directly. Its CMOS push-pull output delivers ±8mA sink/source capability with rail-to-rail swing. For a typical red LED (VF ≈ 1.8V, IF = 5mA), connect the anode to VCC and cathode to OUT - the device will sink 5mA cleanly at VCC = 3.3V. Ensure VCC remains ≥1.8V to maintain full drive strength, and verify VOL < 400mV at load per datasheet conditions.

What is the purpose of the N.C. pins on MAX919ESA+?

Pins 1, 5, and 8 on MAX919ESA+ are no-connect (N.C.) terminals - physically present but not bonded to the die. They exist to maintain pin compatibility with other members of the MAX917–MAX920 SO-package family (e.g., MAX917ESA+ uses pin 5 for REF output). These pins must remain unconnected; tying them to GND or VCC may cause latch-up or parametric shift. Their presence simplifies PCB reuse across multiple comparator variants.

How does MAX919ESA+ handle input overvoltage conditions?

MAX919ESA+ input pins tolerate voltages from VEE − 0.2V to VCC + 0.2V due to integrated ESD protection diodes. When input exceeds these limits, diodes conduct - limiting fault current to ±20mA absolute maximum. For sustained overvoltage (e.g., >100ms), external series resistors (≥1kΩ) are recommended to keep current within safe limits. This architecture enables direct connection to battery terminals without clamping diodes in most 2-cell applications.