Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX941EUA

Overview

The MAX941EUA 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 control - used in battery-powered threshold detection and line receiver circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX941EUA datasheet, MAX941EUA pinout, MAX941EUA application, or MAX941EUA equivalent, key selection criteria include rail-to-rail input range (–0.2V to V+ + 0.2V), latch-enabled output storage, shutdown current <60μA, and μMAX-8 package compatibility with space-constrained portable designs.

Technical Context

The MAX941EUA implements a bipolar-input comparator core with fixed internal hysteresis (±1mV trip point spread), enabling clean switching on slow-moving signals without external feedback. Its current-driven output stage delivers VOH = V+ – 0.2V and VOL = 0.2V at 400μA load, directly interfacing with CMOS/TTL logic.

Input protection includes back-to-back diodes and 4.1kΩ series resistors, allowing continuous short-circuit tolerance to either rail and common-mode operation beyond supply rails (–0.3V to V+ + 0.3V). The LATCH and SHDN pins are high-impedance digital controls with VIH = V+/2 + 0.4V and VIL = V+/2 – 0.4V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX941EUA is housed in an 8-pin μMAX® package (U8-1 outline, 3mm × 3mm footprint), specified for –40°C to +85°C operation and RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM311MX/NOPB and TLV3501CDR, the MAX941EUA uniquely combines micropower operation (350μA), latch/shutdown control, rail-to-rail input beyond supplies, and 80ns speed in a 3mm × 3mm μMAX package - making it optimal for space- and energy-constrained embedded sensing.

Availability

MAX941EUA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, and line receivers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX941EUA 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 MAX941EUA belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power, rail-to-rail sensing in portable and embedded systems where precision timing and minimal quiescent current are critical.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX941EUA?

The MAX941EUA is rated for –40°C to +85°C ambient operation, validated across this full range for parameters including propagation delay (80–200ns), input offset voltage (≤5.5mV), and supply current (380–700μA at 3V/5V). This makes MAX941EUA suitable for industrial control panels, automotive cabin electronics, and outdoor IoT sensors where thermal stability is essential.

Does the MAX941EUA require external pull-up resistors on its output?

No, the MAX941EUA features a push-pull output stage that actively drives both high and low states, delivering VOH = V+ – 0.2V and VOL = 0.2V at 400μA load. This eliminates external pull-up resistors needed by open-collector comparators like the LM311, simplifying PCB layout and ensuring deterministic logic levels when interfacing with 3.3V CMOS or 5V TTL devices.

How does the internal latch function work in the MAX941EUA?

In the MAX941EUA, the LATCH pin controls output transparency: when driven high, the comparator output follows input transitions in real time; when pulled low, the current output state is held indefinitely until LATCH returns high. This allows asynchronous capture of transient events, such as pulse edges in motor control feedback, without requiring precise clock alignment - a capability not present in standard comparators.

Can the MAX941EUA inputs safely operate beyond the supply rails?

Yes, the MAX941EUA input common-mode range extends to –0.2V to V+ + 0.2V, and absolute maximum ratings allow –0.3V to V+ + 0.3V continuously. Internal protection diodes and 4.1kΩ series resistors enable robust operation with inputs driven below GND or above V+, as seen in AC-coupled sensor interfaces or level-shifted communication lines - a key differentiator from comparators with limited input ranges.

What is the shutdown current specification for the MAX941EUA?

The MAX941EUA draws ≤60μA total supply current in shutdown mode (SHDN = low), with typical consumption of 12μA at V+ = 3V. This ultra-low standby current enables multi-year battery life in wireless sensor nodes that wake periodically to sample and transmit data - a critical advantage over alternatives like the TLV3501CDR (8.5mA active, no shutdown) or LM311MX/NOPB (5.5mA active, no shutdown).