Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX931EPA

Overview

The MAX931EPA from Maxim Integrated is a single micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, programmable hysteresis via HYST pin, TTL/CMOS-compatible output sourcing up to 40mA, and supply current <4µA over –40°C to +85°C. It operates from +2.5V to +11V single supply (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V dual supply) and supports battery-powered threshold detection with rail-to-rail input range down to V– and within 1.3V of V+.

For engineers reviewing the MAX931EPA datasheet, MAX931EPA pinout, MAX931EPA application, or MAX931EPA equivalent, this device is selected for ultra-low-power analog sensing in portable instrumentation, precision voltage monitoring, and low-quiescent-current power management where internal reference accuracy, hysteresis control without external feedback, and robust output drive are required.

Technical Context

The MAX931EPA integrates a micropower comparator core with a dedicated 1.182V ±2% reference referenced to V–, not GND. Its HYST pin enables adjustable hysteresis using two external resistors, eliminating need for positive-feedback networks. Input common-mode range extends from V– to (V+ – 1.3V), supporting operation near supply rails.

The output stage continuously sources up to 40mA while sinking >5mA, with no crowbar current during transitions-minimizing supply-line parasitic feedback. Propagation delay is 12µs at 10mV overdrive (T_A = +25°C), and it maintains functionality down to 2.5V supply (guaranteed), with reference functional down to ~2.2V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX931EPA uses an 8-pin plastic DIP package with lead pitch 0.300", operating over –40°C to +85°C. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin description table and functional diagram.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar comparator-with-reference applications.

Compared with MAX921EPA, the MAX931EPA trades reference accuracy for lower cost and broader legacy support; compared with TLV3011IDBVR, it offers superior hysteresis integration and output drive at higher quiescent current-making it optimal for robust, medium-accuracy sensing where layout simplicity matters.

Availability

MAX931EPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, and low-voltage power monitors requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX931EPA 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, with emphasis on low-power, high-reliability solutions.

The MAX931EPA belongs to the MAX931–MAX934 micropower comparator family, engineered specifically for ultra-low-quiescent-current voltage monitoring and threshold detection in space-constrained, battery-dependent systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX931EPA?

The MAX931EPA is rated for –40°C to +85°C, matching the "E" grade designation in its part number. This extended industrial temperature range ensures reliable performance in automotive cabin modules, outdoor sensors, and industrial control panels where ambient conditions vary widely. All key specifications-including supply current (<4µA), reference accuracy (±2.5%), and propagation delay-are guaranteed across this full range.

Does the MAX931EPA require external components to implement hysteresis?

Yes-but minimally: only two resistors connected to the HYST pin and REF/GND. The MAX931EPA's HYST pin enables precise, stable hysteresis without external op-amps or feedback networks. For example, using R1 = 1MΩ from REF to HYST and R2 = 2.4MΩ from HYST to GND yields ~50mV hysteresis band. This method avoids phase-margin issues inherent in traditional positive-feedback configurations and is fully supported in the MAX931EPA datasheet.

Can the MAX931EPA operate from a 3V supply?

Yes-the MAX931EPA is fully specified from +2.5V to +11V single supply. At 3V, it draws <3.2µA (typical), maintains 1.182V reference output (±2.5%), and delivers 12µs propagation delay at 10mV overdrive. Input common-mode range extends from GND to 1.7V, making it suitable for Li-ion battery monitoring (2.5V–4.2V range) and 3.3V system supervision without level-shifting.

Is the internal reference of the MAX931EPA referenced to GND or V–?

The internal 1.182V reference of the MAX931EPA is referenced to V–, not GND. When operating in single-supply mode (V– = GND), REF = 1.182V w.r.t. GND. In dual-supply mode (e.g., V+ = +5V, V– = –5V), REF = 1.182V above V– (i.e., –3.818V w.r.t. GND). This design ensures consistent hysteresis behavior regardless of supply configuration and is critical when using the HYST pin-its voltage range is defined relative to REF, not GND.

What is the maximum continuous output source current of the MAX931EPA?

The MAX931EPA delivers up to 40mA continuous output source current into loads tied between OUT and GND. This is verified across temperature and supply voltage (e.g., 40mA at V+ = 5V, T_A = +85°C). It enables direct driving of LEDs, small relays, or MOSFET gates without external buffers. Short-pulse currents up to 100mA are possible if power dissipation limits (727mW in DIP package) are observed-verified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.