Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX941CSA+T

Overview

The MAX941CSA+T 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 latch/shutdown functions. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V and interfaces directly with CMOS/TTL logic in battery-powered threshold detection and zero-crossing applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX941CSA+T datasheet, MAX941CSA+T pinout, MAX941CSA+T application, or MAX941CSA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its rail-to-rail input range (–0.2V to V₊ + 0.2V), latch-enable capability, shutdown mode (<60μA), low 1mV offset voltage, and SO-8 package compatibility with standard 3V/5V signal conditioning designs.

Technical Context

The MAX941CSA+T implements a bipolar-input comparator architecture with fixed internal hysteresis (±1mV trip points) to suppress oscillation during slow-moving or noisy input transitions. Its rail-to-rail input stage tolerates common-mode voltages beyond both supply rails (–0.3V to V₊ + 0.3V), and its current-driven output stage delivers VOH = V₊ – 0.4V and VOL = 0.2V at 400μA sink/source.

Latch and shutdown are controlled via dedicated high-impedance digital inputs (LATCH and SHDN), each with VIH = V₊/2 + 0.4V and VIL = V₊/2 – 0.4V logic thresholds. Propagation delay skew between rising/falling edges is ≤10ns, and differential propagation delay across channels is guaranteed ≤10ns - though irrelevant for the single-channel MAX941CSA+T.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX941CSA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with standard 1.27mm pitch, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant footprint, 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 LM311DR and TLV3501CDR, the MAX941CSA+T uniquely combines sub-100ns speed, micropower operation, rail-to-rail input, and integrated digital control - making it optimal for space- and energy-constrained 3V/5V embedded systems requiring autonomous threshold management.

Availability

MAX941CSA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, 3V/5V industrial sensors, and precision threshold detection requiring stable component supply across automotive, medical, and IoT production programs.

Supply support for MAX941CSA+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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-performance power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX941CSA+T belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, engineered specifically for low-voltage, low-power, single-supply systems where rail-to-rail input range, fast propagation, and integrated digital control are essential.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX941CSA+T?

The MAX941CSA+T is rated for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, as confirmed by its "C" grade suffix and SO-8 packaging. This commercial-grade temperature range aligns with typical industrial control panels and consumer electronics enclosures where active thermal management is not required. The device maintains full specification compliance - including 80ns propagation delay and 1mV offset voltage - across this entire range.

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

No, the MAX941CSA+T does not require external pull-up resistors. Its output stage actively drives high to V₊ – 0.4V and low to 0.2V at 400μA, meeting CMOS and TTL logic thresholds directly. This rail-to-rail output swing eliminates external components in most 3V/5V interfacing scenarios, reducing BOM count and board area - a key advantage over open-drain comparators like the LM393.

How does the internal latch function work in the MAX941CSA+T?

The internal latch in the MAX941CSA+T stores the comparator's output state when the LATCH pin is driven low. When LATCH is high, the device operates transparently - output follows input changes in real time. The latch has defined timing parameters: 20ns setup time, 30ns hold time, and 70ns propagation delay. This allows deterministic capture of transient events in microcontroller-based systems without additional flip-flop ICs.

Can the MAX941CSA+T operate from a 2.7V supply?

Yes, the MAX941CSA+T is fully specified to operate from 2.7V to 5.5V, as stated in its Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. At 2.7V, it maintains 80ns typical propagation delay and 380μA supply current, enabling reliable use in single-cell Li-ion (3.0V nominal) and two-cell alkaline (3.2V fresh) battery systems without voltage regulation.

What is the maximum input common-mode voltage range of the MAX941CSA+T?

The MAX941CSA+T supports an input common-mode voltage range of –0.2V to V₊ + 0.2V, verified across temperature and supply conditions. This rail-to-rail capability allows direct connection of sensors whose output may swing slightly below GND or above V₊, such as piezoelectric transducers or op-amp buffers with minor headroom limitations - eliminating level-shifting circuitry.