Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9203ESA

Overview

MAX9203ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single high-speed voltage comparator with TTL-compatible output and latch input, designed for precision signal discrimination in timing-critical circuits. It delivers 7ns typical propagation delay at 5mV overdrive, consumes only 9mW at +5V supply, supports analog supplies from +5V to +10V (VEE grounded), and operates across –40°C to +85°C in an 8-pin narrow SO package.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9203ESA datasheet, MAX9203ESA pinout, MAX9203ESA application, or MAX9203ESA equivalent, this device is selected for fast A/D converter front-ends, line receivers requiring sub-10ns response, V/F converters needing low-power latched comparison, and high-speed signal restoration where ground-sensing input range and TTL-level compatibility are essential.

Technical Context

The MAX9203ESA implements a bipolar comparator core with active internal pullup on its TTL output stage, enabling direct interfacing with LS-TTL loads without external resistors. Its input common-mode range extends to the negative rail (VEE), allowing true ground-referenced sensing under single-supply operation (+5V to +10V on VCC, VEE = GND).

It integrates a dedicated TTL-compatible latch input (Pin 5) that freezes the output state on falling edge, supporting synchronous sampling in data acquisition systems. Propagation delay matching between rising/falling edges (ΔtPD ≤ 2.5ns) and tight input offset voltage (±7.5mV max) ensure deterministic timing in high-resolution threshold detection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9203ESA is housed in an 8-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package with 1.27mm pitch, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, suitable for automated SMT assembly and industrial-grade thermal cycling.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9203EKA-T, the MAX9203ESA offers identical performance in a more manufacturable SO package with better thermal dissipation; compared with LM311DR, it provides 30× faster response, integrated TTL drive, and latch capability-making it essential for modern high-speed data acquisition where timing determinism and integration matter.

Availability

MAX9203ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed A/D converters, line receivers, and V/F converters requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX9203ESA 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 industrial, communications, and computing applications, emphasizing low-power, high-speed, and high-reliability performance.

The MAX920x family targets high-speed signal conditioning in data acquisition and communication systems, delivering low-power, latch-enabled comparators optimized for timing-critical analog-to-digital interfaces and real-time threshold detection.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog supply voltage for MAX9203ESA?

The MAX9203ESA supports an analog supply voltage range of +5V to +10V referenced to VEE. When operated in single-supply mode (VEE = GND), VCC may be set up to +10.5V per Absolute Maximum Ratings. This allows headroom for higher-voltage sensor interfaces while maintaining 7ns propagation delay and 9mW power consumption. Always use local 100nF ceramic decoupling on VCC and VDD pins.

Does MAX9203ESA require dual ±5V supplies?

No, MAX9203ESA does not require dual ±5V supplies. It operates from a single +5V to +10V analog supply (VCC) with VEE tied to GND, plus a mandatory +5V digital supply (VDD). The datasheet confirms single-supply operation in Figure 1b and specifies VCC–VEE = +5V to +10.5V. The ±5V option (Figure 1c) is optional for split-rail analog signal handling but not required for standard use.

Can MAX9203ESA drive standard TTL logic directly?

Yes, MAX9203ESA drives standard TTL logic directly. Its output stage features an active internal pullup and is specified to deliver VOH ≥ 3.0V at 1mA and VOL ≤ 0.4V at 8mA - meeting LS-TTL fan-out-4 requirements. No external pullup resistor is needed, simplifying layout and reducing component count in timing-critical signal paths where the MAX9203ESA is deployed.

What is the function of Pin 5 (LATCH) on MAX9203ESA?

Pin 5 (LATCH) on MAX9203ESA is a TTL-compatible latch enable input that freezes the comparator output state on its falling edge. When driven low, the current output state is held regardless of subsequent input changes; when high, the comparator operates transparently. This enables synchronous sampling in data acquisition systems and eliminates metastability in clocked decision circuits using the MAX9203ESA.

Is MAX9203ESA pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX920x family?

No, MAX9203ESA is not pin-compatible with MAX9201 or MAX9202. It uses an 8-pin narrow SO package with unique pin assignments (e.g., VCC on Pin 1, LATCH on Pin 5, VDD on Pin 8), whereas MAX9201 uses 16-pin TSSOP/SO and MAX9202 uses 14-pin TSSOP/SO. Each variant has distinct pin counts, layouts, and terminal functions - the MAX9203ESA is a single-channel device optimized for minimal footprint, unlike the quad/dual counterparts.