Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX931ESA-T

Overview

The MAX931ESA-T from Maxim Integrated is a single micropower voltage comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, programmable hysteresis via HYST pin, TTL/CMOS-compatible output capable of sourcing up to 40mA, and ultra-low 4µA max supply current over –40°C to +85°C. It operates from a single +2.5V to +11V supply (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V dual supply), supports rail-to-rail input down to V– and within 1.3V of V+, and is optimized for battery-powered threshold detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX931ESA-T datasheet, MAX931ESA-T pinout, MAX931ESA-T application, or MAX931ESA-T equivalent, key selection criteria include its guaranteed 4µA quiescent current at extended temperature, internal reference accuracy, hysteresis configurability without external feedback, and output drive capability into heavy loads - all critical for low-power sensing and alarm circuits.

Technical Context

The MAX931ESA-T integrates a precision 1.182V ±2% reference referenced to V– (not GND), enabling self-contained threshold generation without external components. Its comparator features an input common-mode range extending from V– to (V+ – 1.3V), supporting operation near supply rails in single- or dual-supply configurations.

The unique output stage eliminates crowbar current during transitions, minimizing supply-line parasitic feedback and improving stability in noisy or poorly decoupled layouts. Hysteresis is implemented via the HYST pin using two resistors - no op-amp feedback loop required - delivering fast, low-current hysteresis control with predictable 100mV maximum band width.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX931ESA-T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.8mm height), thermally enhanced for high-current output operation in space-constrained designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX921ESA-T, the MAX931ESA-T trades 1% reference accuracy for 20% lower quiescent current and simpler hysteresis implementation; versus TLV3011DBVR, it adds HYST pin control and 10× higher output drive at the cost of ~3× higher supply current - making it ideal for robust, low-component-count threshold detection.

Availability

MAX931ESA-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, oscillator circuits, and alarm circuits requiring stable component supply with guaranteed –40°C to +85°C operation and long-term traceability.

Supply support for MAX931ESA-T 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, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX931ESA-T belongs to the MAX931–MAX934 micropower comparator family, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power threshold detection with integrated reference - targeting applications where battery life, component count, and reliability outweigh need for highest reference precision.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX931ESA-T?

The MAX931ESA-T is specified for –40°C to +85°C (industrial grade). This is confirmed by the "E" suffix in the part number and verified in the Ordering Information table, which lists MAX931ESA with "–40°C to +85°C" and "8 µMAX" package. The device maintains <4µA max supply current and ±2.5% reference accuracy across this full range.

Does the MAX931ESA-T require external hysteresis components?

No - the MAX931ESA-T includes a dedicated HYST pin that enables programmable hysteresis using just two external resistors (REF to HYST and HYST to V–). This eliminates the need for external positive-feedback networks or op-amps, simplifying design and reducing board area. The hysteresis band is adjustable up to 100mV.

Can the MAX931ESA-T operate from a 3V supply?

Yes - the MAX931ESA-T supports single-supply operation from +2.5V to +11V, including 3V. At 3V, typical supply current is 2.4µA to 3.0µA (per Electrical Characteristics tables), input common-mode range is V– to (V+ – 1.3V), and propagation delay increases slightly to 14µs (10mV overdrive). Reference remains functional above ~2.2V.

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

The internal 1.182V reference of the MAX931ESA-T is explicitly referenced to V–, not GND. This is stated in the Detailed Description section and confirmed in the Pin Descriptions ("REF: Reference output. 1.182V with respect to V–"). Therefore, when using single-supply operation (V– = GND), REF = 1.182V w.r.t. GND; in dual-supply mode, REF = 1.182V above the negative rail.

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

The MAX931ESA-T delivers up to 40mA continuous source current from its OUT pin, as specified in the Features list and confirmed in Typical Operating Characteristics (e.g., "Short-Circuit Source Current vs. Supply Voltage" plot shows >40mA at 5V). This allows direct driving of LEDs, small solenoids, or logic inputs without external buffers.