Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX933CSA

Overview

MAX933CSA from Maxim Integrated is a dual micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, programmable hysteresis via HYST pin, TTL/CMOS-compatible outputs sourcing up to 40mA, and operation from +2.5V to +11V single supply. It targets battery-powered threshold detection and window monitoring where ultra-low quiescent current (<4µA over temperature) and rail-to-rail input range (V− to V+ −1.3V) are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX933CSA datasheet, MAX933CSA pinout, MAX933CSA application, or MAX933CSA equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package-specific pin functions, real-world use cases in low-power sensing, and validated alternative options for design flexibility and supply continuity.

Technical Context

The MAX933CSA implements two independent comparators sharing one internal 1.182V reference and a dedicated HYST terminal for resistor-programmable hysteresis without external feedback. Its output stage eliminates crowbar current during transitions, minimizing supply-induced parasitic feedback and enabling stable operation even with suboptimal PCB layout.

Input common-mode range extends from V− to (V+ − 1.3V), supporting single-supply operation down to +2.5V and dual-supply operation from ±1.25V to ±5.5V. The REF pin is referenced to V− (not GND), and the HYST pin accepts voltages from (REF − 50mV) to REF - enabling precise 100mV max hysteresis bands using two external resistors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX933CSA is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP package (0°C to +70°C operating range), with through-hole mounting and standard 0.3-inch width. Pin functions are electrically identical to MAX933ESA/MAX933CUA but differ mechanically from µMAX/SO variants.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX933CSA, MAX933ESA offers wider temperature range and surface-mount compatibility but requires rework for through-hole production, while MAX923ESA delivers tighter reference accuracy in the same DIP package - making it a drop-in upgrade for applications demanding improved voltage threshold repeatability.

Availability

MAX933CSA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, window comparators, and oscillator circuits requiring stable component supply across industrial and consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for MAX933CSA 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 management, sensing, and interface applications, with emphasis on low-power, high-reliability solutions.

The MAX931–MAX934 family was engineered for ultra-low-power sensing and monitoring in portable and energy-constrained systems, integrating reference and hysteresis control to minimize external components and system-level power consumption.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX933CSA?

The MAX933CSA is specified for 0°C to +70°C operation. This commercial-grade temperature range is confirmed in the Ordering Information table and Absolute Maximum Ratings section of the datasheet. The 'C' suffix in MAX933CSA explicitly denotes the 0°C to +70°C grade, distinguishing it from the 'E' grade (−40°C to +85°C) offered in MAX933ESA and MAX933EPA variants. Designers must verify thermal margins if ambient exceeds +70°C.

Does MAX933CSA require external bypass capacitors?

MAX933CSA does not require mandatory power-supply bypass capacitors due to its crowbar-free output architecture and low 4µA quiescent current. However, a 100nF ceramic capacitor is recommended between V+ and V− when supply impedance is high or trace lengths exceed 2 inches - per the Board Layout and Bypassing section. The REF pin must never be bypassed, as this degrades reference stability and increases noise.

Can MAX933CSA operate from a 3V single supply?

Yes, MAX933CSA operates from +2.5V to +11V single supply, including +3V. Electrical Characteristics tables explicitly list performance data at V+ = 3V, confirming supply current of 2.4–3.0µA, input offset voltage ±10mV, and 14µs response time. Input common-mode range remains V− to (V+ − 1.3V), so at 3V supply, usable input span is 0V to 1.7V - sufficient for most low-voltage sensor interfaces.

How is hysteresis configured on MAX933CSA?

Hysteresis on MAX933CSA is configured using the HYST pin: connect R1 between REF and HYST, and R2 between HYST and V−. The hysteresis band (VHB) ≈ 2 × (REF − VHYST), with VHYST adjustable from (REF − 50mV) to REF - yielding up to 100mV total hysteresis. This method avoids external feedback loops and is detailed in the Applications Information section with resistor calculation formulas for precise threshold setting.

Is MAX933CSA pin-compatible with any higher-accuracy alternatives?

Yes, MAX933CSA is pin-compatible with MAX923ESA and MAX923EPA - the 1% reference versions of the same dual-comparator family. The datasheet states: "The MAX933 and MAX923 are pin-compatible." This allows direct substitution where tighter reference accuracy (±1% vs. ±2%) is required, with identical PCB layout and interconnects - no redesign or re-spin needed.