Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX934CSE-T

Overview

MAX934CSE-T from Maxim Integrated is a quad micropower comparator with integrated 1.182V ±2% bandgap reference, designed for ultra-low-power single-supply systems. It operates from +2.5V to +11V (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V), draws ≤4µA supply current at +25°C, 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). It is used in battery-powered threshold detection and window monitoring circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX934CSE-T datasheet, MAX934CSE-T pinout, MAX934CSE-T application, or MAX934CSE-T equivalent, key selection considerations include its quad-comparator topology, internal 2% reference, guaranteed operation down to +2.5V supply, 12µs propagation delay (10mV overdrive), and compatibility with commercial-temperature (0°C to +70°C) industrial designs requiring low quiescent current and rail-to-rail input capability.

Technical Context

The MAX934CSE-T integrates four independent comparators and a shared 1.182V reference referenced to V−, not GND. Each comparator's output stage eliminates crowbar current during transitions, minimizing supply-induced parasitic feedback and enabling stable operation without stringent layout constraints.

It supports dual-supply operation (±1.25V to ±5.5V) with separate V− and GND pins, and its input voltage range extends from V− to within 1.3V of V+, allowing direct sensing near supply rails. Unlike MAX931/MAX932/MAX933, the MAX934 uses external positive-feedback hysteresis rather than a dedicated HYST pin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX934CSE-T is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO package (width: 3.9mm), RoHS-compliant, with exposed pad not connected. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official MAX934 functional diagram and pin description table.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX934ESE-T, the MAX934CSE-T trades extended temperature support for lower unit cost and commercial qualification; compared with MAX924CSE-T, it sacrifices 1% reference accuracy to achieve lower price and broader availability while retaining identical quad-comparator architecture and ultra-low power consumption.

Availability

MAX934CSE-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, window comparators, oscillator circuits, and alarm circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for MAX934CSE-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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX931–MAX934 family was designed to deliver ultra-low-power, low-cost comparator solutions with integrated references for portable and energy-sensitive systems-prioritizing micropower operation, rail-to-rail inputs, and robust output drive in minimal packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for MAX934CSE-T in single-supply operation?

The MAX934CSE-T supports a single-supply voltage range of +2.5V to +11V. At +11V, it remains within absolute maximum ratings (V+ to GND ≤ +12V), and all electrical specifications-including 4µA quiescent current and 1.182V reference accuracy-are guaranteed across the 0°C to +70°C temperature range. Operation above +11V risks permanent damage.

Does MAX934CSE-T support dual-supply operation, and how are the supplies connected?

Yes, MAX934CSE-T supports dual-supply operation from ±1.25V to ±5.5V. Connect V+ to the positive rail, V− to the negative rail, and GND to circuit ground. The reference (REF) and outputs (e.g., OUTA, OUTB) are referenced to V−, not GND-so REF = 1.182V above V−, and outputs swing from V+ to GND. This configuration enables bipolar input monitoring with TTL-compatible outputs.

Can the internal reference of MAX934CSE-T be used to bias external circuitry?

Yes, the REF pin of MAX934CSE-T provides a 1.182V ±2% output referenced to V− and can source up to 15µA or sink up to 8µA. It is intended for biasing comparator inputs, setting thresholds, or driving high-impedance nodes. Do not bypass REF with capacitors, and avoid routing noisy signals near the REF trace to prevent crosstalk-induced noise exceeding 1mV peak-to-peak.

How is hysteresis implemented on MAX934CSE-T, and what is the typical hysteresis voltage range?

Unlike MAX931–MAX933, MAX934CSE-T does not have a HYST pin. Hysteresis is implemented externally using positive feedback: connect a resistor from OUTx to IN+x, and another from IN+x to a reference or divider node. Typical hysteresis bands range from 10mV to 100mV depending on resistor values. The design procedure accounts for input leakage (<1nA) and reference voltage (1.182V) to maintain accuracy across temperature.

Is MAX934CSE-T pin-compatible with any higher-accuracy alternatives?

Yes, MAX934CSE-T is pin-compatible with MAX924CSE-T, which offers identical quad-comparator functionality and package but with a 1% accurate reference instead of 2%. No PCB changes are required when upgrading for tighter threshold tolerance. However, MAX934CSE-T is not pin-compatible with MAX932 or MAX933 due to differing channel count and pin assignments.