Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX924EPE

Overview

The MAX924EPE from Maxim Integrated is a quad micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±1% bandgap reference, designed for ultra-low-power single- or dual-supply operation (±1.25V to ±5.5V or +2.5V to +11V). It delivers 4μA typical supply current at +25°C, 12μs propagation delay (10mV overdrive), TTL/CMOS-compatible outputs that source up to 40mA, and operates across –40°C to +85°C. It is used in battery-powered threshold detection and window comparator circuits where rail-to-rail input range (V– to V+ – 1.3V) and stable internal reference are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX924EPE datasheet, MAX924EPE pinout, MAX924EPE application, or MAX924EPE equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 4-comparator integration in 16-pin PDIP, absence of internal hysteresis (requiring external feedback), reference-referenced-to-V– (not GND), output swing from V+ to GND, and compatibility with low-voltage operation down to 2.5V (with degraded performance below).

Technical Context

The MAX924EPE implements four independent comparators sharing a common internal 1.182V ±1% precision reference referenced to V–, not GND. Each comparator features rail-to-rail input capability (V– to V+ – 1.3V), no internal hysteresis, and an output stage capable of continuous 40mA sourcing and >5mA sinking without crowbar current during transitions.

It supports true dual-supply operation (±1.25V to ±5.5V) with separate V+ and V– pins, and single-supply operation (2.5V–11V) by tying V– to GND. The REF pin provides a stable 1.182V output referenced to V–, with ±1% accuracy over –40°C to +85°C and 6μA minimum sink/source capability in the E-temp range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX924EPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), with through-hole mounting and industry-standard footprint. Pin numbering follows standard DIP convention (pin 1 at top-left corner, counterclockwise).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM339DR and TLV3704CDR, the MAX924EPE uniquely combines quad integration, ±1% internal reference, 40mA sourcing outputs, and dual-supply support - making it optimal for precision, low-power, direct-drive applications where supply flexibility and reference stability are critical.

Availability

MAX924EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, window comparators, and oscillator circuits requiring stable component supply and extended temperature operation from –40°C to +85°C.

Supply support for MAX924EPE 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX921–MAX924 family was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, precision threshold detection in portable and remote-sensing applications, emphasizing micropower operation, integrated reference accuracy, and robust output drive without compromising speed or supply flexibility.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for MAX924EPE in single-supply operation?

The MAX924EPE supports a single-supply voltage range of +2.5V to +11V. When operated with V– tied to GND, the absolute maximum rating for V+ is +12V, but the guaranteed functional range remains +2.5V to +11V. Exceeding +11V may degrade reference accuracy and increase supply current beyond specifications.

Does MAX924EPE have internal hysteresis?

No, the MAX924EPE does not include internal hysteresis. Unlike the MAX921 and MAX923, it requires external positive feedback (e.g., resistors between output and IN+ or IN–) to implement hysteresis. This design choice preserves flexibility for custom hysteresis levels and avoids fixed internal thresholds that could limit application adaptability.

How is the reference voltage of MAX924EPE referenced - to GND or to V–?

The REF pin of MAX924EPE outputs 1.182V with respect to V–, not GND. This means the reference voltage shifts with V–, preserving accuracy in dual-supply configurations. In single-supply operation (V– = GND), REF equals 1.182V relative to GND. This referencing scheme ensures stable threshold generation regardless of whether the device operates from single or dual supplies.

Can MAX924EPE drive LEDs directly?

Yes, MAX924EPE can drive LEDs directly. Each output (OUTA–OUTD) sources up to 40mA continuously, sufficient for standard indicator LEDs. For example, with a 5V supply and red LED (VF ≈ 1.8V), a 100Ω series resistor limits current to ~32mA - well within safe operating limits. No external transistor buffer is required, simplifying circuit design and reducing component count.

What is the input leakage current specification for MAX924EPE at –40°C to +85°C?

The input leakage current for MAX924EPE is specified as ±5nA maximum across the –40°C to +85°C temperature range. This low leakage ensures minimal error in high-impedance sensing applications, such as those using megaohm-level resistor dividers for voltage monitoring, and maintains accuracy even in cold-temperature environments where leakage typically increases.