Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX941CSA

Overview

The MAX941CSA from Maxim Integrated is a single high-speed rail-to-rail input comparator optimized for 3V/5V single-supply systems, featuring 80ns propagation delay, 350μA supply current per comparator, and internal hysteresis - used in battery-powered threshold detection and zero-crossing circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX941CSA datasheet, MAX941CSA pinout, MAX941CSA application, or MAX941CSA equivalent, key selection criteria include latch enable/shutdown functionality, rail-to-rail input operation down to 2.7V, CMOS/TTL-compatible output swing within 0.4V of rails, and SO-8 package compatibility with industrial temperature range designs.

Technical Context

The MAX941CSA implements a bipolar-input comparator architecture with internal hysteresis (1mV typical input-referred width), enabling clean switching on slow-moving signals without external feedback. Its rail-to-rail input common-mode range extends 0.2V beyond both V+ and GND rails under normal operation.

It integrates dual digital control inputs - SHDN and LATCH - each with high-impedance CMOS-compatible thresholds (VIH = V+/2 + 0.4V, VIL = V+/2 − 0.4V) and specified timing (latch pulse width ≥50ns, shutdown disable time ≤10ns). Output stage is current-driven, delivering VOH ≥ V+ − 0.4V at 400μA source and VOL ≤ 0.4V at 4mA sink.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX941CSA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, compliant with JEDEC MS-012AA outline, 1.75mm body width, and RoHS-compliant lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM393DR and TLV3501CDR, the MAX941CSA uniquely balances 80ns speed, 350μA quiescent current, rail-to-rail input operation, and dual control functions (latch + shutdown) in an SO-8 package - making it the only option meeting all four requirements simultaneously for portable, timing-sensitive comparator applications.

Availability

MAX941CSA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, 3V/5V industrial interfaces, and precision threshold detection requiring stable component supply across extended production cycles.

Supply support for MAX941CSA 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 MAX941CSA belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power, rail-to-rail single-supply operation in portable and space-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the MAX941CSA?

The MAX941CSA has an absolute maximum supply voltage (V+ to GND) of +6.5V. Operation is specified from 2.7V to 5.5V. Exceeding +6.5V may cause permanent damage. The device is rated for continuous operation at 5V, with typical performance characterized at both 3V and 5V supplies - ensuring robustness in mixed-voltage system designs where transient overshoots could occur.

Does the MAX941CSA require external pull-up resistors on its output?

No, the MAX941CSA does not require external pull-up resistors. Its output stage actively drives high to within 0.4V of V+ (e.g., 2.6V at V+ = 3.0V) and low to ≤0.4V, meeting CMOS and TTL logic thresholds directly. This rail-to-rail output swing eliminates external components in most interface scenarios, reducing board area and improving reliability in high-density layouts.

How does the internal hysteresis of the MAX941CSA improve noise immunity?

The MAX941CSA features fixed internal hysteresis of approximately 1mV input-referred width, creating distinct upper and lower trip points. This prevents output oscillation when input signals hover near the threshold - especially critical for slow-moving or noisy inputs like thermistor outputs or AC line sensing. Unlike external hysteresis networks, it requires no design calculations or additional passives, ensuring consistent behavior across temperature and process variation.

Can the MAX941CSA operate with input voltages below ground or above V+?

Yes, the MAX941CSA supports an input common-mode range from −0.2V to V+ + 0.2V, verified per datasheet specifications. This rail-to-rail-plus margin allows safe interfacing with AC-coupled sensors, transformer outputs, or signals with ground offsets - without clamping diodes or level-shifting circuitry. Input pins tolerate continuous short-circuit faults to either rail, enhancing system robustness in harsh electrical environments.

What are the timing requirements for the LATCH and SHDN pins of the MAX941CSA?

The MAX941CSA specifies minimum LATCH pulse width of 50ns and setup/hold times of 20ns/30ns relative to input transition. SHDN disable time is ≤10ns. Both pins accept standard CMOS logic levels (VIH ≥ V+/2 + 0.4V, VIL ≤ V+/2 − 0.4V) and exhibit high input impedance (<10μA leakage). These parameters ensure reliable control from microcontrollers or FPGA GPIOs without additional buffering or timing constraints.