Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX934CPE+

Overview

MAX934CPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, designed for ultra-low-power battery-operated systems. It operates from +2.5V to +11V single supply (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V dual supply), features TTL/CMOS-compatible outputs that source up to 40mA and sink ≥5mA, and supports input common-mode range from V− to (V+ − 1.3V). Used in window detectors, low-voltage monitoring, and oscillator circuits where sub-4µA quiescent current is critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX934CPE+ datasheet, MAX934CPE+ pinout, MAX934CPE+ application, or MAX934CPE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 4µA max supply current at +70°C, 12µs propagation delay (10mV overdrive), adjustable hysteresis via external resistors, and compatibility with 3V/5V single-supply designs requiring rail-to-rail input and GND-referenced output swing.

Technical Context

The MAX934CPE+ integrates four independent comparators and a precision 1.182V reference referenced to V−, not GND. Its output stage eliminates crowbar current during transitions, minimizing parasitic supply feedback and enabling stable operation without strict layout constraints.

All four comparators feature identical electrical specs: input offset voltage ≤±10mV, input leakage ≤±0.01nA (IN±), 1.182V ±2% reference accuracy over 0°C to +70°C, and propagation delay of 12µs (10mV overdrive) at 5V supply. The device supports low-voltage operation down to 2.5V - below which reference functionality degrades, though comparator operation persists down to 1V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX934CPE+ uses a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), lead-free and RoHS-compliant. Pin spacing is 0.100", compatible with standard through-hole prototyping and production PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX934CPE+, MAX934CSE+ offers identical performance in a compact SO package ideal for high-density layouts, while MAX924CPE+ trades higher reference accuracy for increased cost - making MAX934CPE+ optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-powered applications where ±2% reference tolerance is sufficient.

Availability

MAX934CPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, and window comparators requiring stable component supply across commercial temperature range and long-term design continuity.

Supply support for MAX934CPE+ 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 innovation.

The MAX931–MAX934 family was engineered specifically for micropower sensing and monitoring in portable and energy-constrained systems, integrating reference and comparator functions to minimize external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for MAX934CPE+ in single-supply operation?

The MAX934CPE+ supports a single-supply voltage range of +2.5V to +11V. At +11V, it remains within Absolute Maximum Ratings, and all specifications - including 4µA quiescent current and 12µs propagation delay - are guaranteed over 0°C to +70°C. Exceeding +11V risks permanent damage.

Does MAX934CPE+ require external hysteresis components for stable operation?

Yes - unlike some comparators with internal hysteresis, MAX934CPE+ requires external resistors to implement hysteresis. For each comparator, connect two resistors between REF, the comparator input, and V− (or GND) to set the hysteresis band. The HYST pin is not present on MAX934CPE+; hysteresis is implemented via positive feedback.

Can MAX934CPE+ operate from a 3V supply while maintaining full specifications?

Yes - MAX934CPE+ is fully specified at +3V single supply. Electrical Characteristics tables confirm supply current ≤4µA, propagation delay ≤14µs, and reference voltage 1.182V ±2% at 3V. Input common-mode range extends from GND to +1.7V, supporting typical 3V system sensing requirements.

Is the reference output of MAX934CPE+ referenced to GND or V−?

The reference output (pin 8) of MAX934CPE+ is referenced to V− (pin 9), not GND. When operating in single-supply mode, V− is connected to GND, so REF = 1.182V relative to GND. In dual-supply mode (e.g., ±5V), REF = 1.182V above V−, meaning REF = −3.818V relative to GND - a critical detail for level-shifting designs.

What is the output voltage swing of MAX934CPE+ when V+ = 5V and V− = GND?

With V+ = 5V and V− = GND, MAX934CPE+ outputs swing from GND (0V) to V+ − 0.4V = 4.6V under load. Output high voltage is guaranteed ≥4.6V at I_OH = 15µA; output low voltage is ≤0.4V at I_OL = 8mA. This ensures reliable TTL/CMOS logic-level compatibility without level translators.