Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX931ESA

Overview

MAX931ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, programmable hysteresis via HYST pin, TTL/CMOS-compatible output (sinks and sources current), and ultra-low 4µA max supply current 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 up to V+ – 1.3V.

For engineers reviewing the MAX931ESA datasheet, MAX931ESA pinout, MAX931ESA application, or MAX931ESA equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package-specific terminal roles, real-world use cases in low-power sensing, and validated alternative options for precision-comparator selection under tight power budgets.

Technical Context

The MAX931ESA integrates a micropower comparator core with an on-chip 1.182V reference referenced to V–, not GND. Its unique output stage continuously sources up to 40mA while eliminating crowbar current during transitions-minimizing parasitic supply feedback and enabling stable operation without strict layout constraints.

Hysteresis is implemented externally via the HYST pin using two resistors (REF → HYST → V–), supporting adjustable hysteresis bands up to 100mV. Input common-mode range extends from V– to V+ – 1.3V, and propagation delay is 12µs (typical, 10mV overdrive) at 5V supply.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX931ESA is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.8mm height), rated for –40°C to +85°C operating temperature. The package is RoHS-compliant, lead-free, and features exposed pad for thermal enhancement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX921ESA, the MAX931ESA trades 1% reference accuracy for 20% lower supply current and retains full hysteresis configurability; versus TLV3011DBVR, it delivers 33× higher output drive and integrated HYST functionality at the cost of ~3.3× higher quiescent current.

Availability

MAX931ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, and oscillator circuits requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX931ESA 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 power-management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX931ESA belongs to the MAX93x micropower comparator family, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power sensing and reference-integrated decision-making in space-constrained, battery-operated equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output source current of the MAX931ESA?

The MAX931ESA provides continuous output source current up to 40mA, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and confirmed in Typical Operating Characteristics. This capability allows the MAX931ESA to directly drive LEDs, small relays, or MOSFET gates without external buffers-critical for minimizing component count in compact, low-power designs.

Can the MAX931ESA operate from a 3V single supply?

Yes, the MAX931ESA operates from +2.5V to +11V single supply, including 3V. At 3V, supply current remains below 4µA (typical 3.2µA), reference output stays at 1.182V ±2%, and propagation delay increases to 14µs (10mV overdrive). Input common-mode range becomes 0V to 1.7V, supporting direct 3V-system interfacing.

How is hysteresis programmed on the MAX931ESA?

Hysteresis is programmed on the MAX931ESA using the HYST pin: connect R1 between REF and HYST, and R2 between HYST and V–. The hysteresis band (VHB) ≈ 2 × (VREF – VHYST), with VHYST adjustable from REF – 50mV to REF. For example, setting VHYST = REF – 25mV yields ~50mV hysteresis-enabling robust noise immunity without feedback components.

Is the internal reference of the MAX931ESA referenced to GND or V–?

The internal 1.182V reference of the MAX931ESA is referenced to V–, not GND. When using single-supply operation (V– = GND), REF = 1.182V relative to GND. In dual-supply configurations (e.g., V+ = +5V, V– = –5V), REF = 1.182V above V– (i.e., –3.818V relative to GND), requiring careful level-shifting in downstream circuits.

Does the MAX931ESA require power-supply bypass capacitors?

Power-supply bypass capacitors are not mandatory for the MAX931ESA if supply impedance is low, per the Applications Information section. However, a 100nF ceramic capacitor is recommended at V+ when supply leads are long or impedance is high. Importantly, the REF pin must never be bypassed-capacitive loading degrades reference stability and increases noise.