Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX941EUA-T

Overview

The MAX941EUA-T from Maxim Integrated is a single high-speed comparator optimized for 3V/5V single-supply systems, featuring rail-to-rail inputs, 80ns propagation delay (5mV overdrive), 350μA supply current per comparator, and internal latch/shutdown functions. It operates across –40°C to +85°C and is used in battery-powered threshold detection and zero-crossing circuits where low power and fast response are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX941EUA-T datasheet, MAX941EUA-T pinout, MAX941EUA-T application, or MAX941EUA-T equivalent, key selection criteria include its μMAX-8 package footprint, latch-enable timing (tS = 20ns, tH = 30ns), shutdown current <60μA, and guaranteed rail-to-rail input range extending beyond V+ and GND rails.

Technical Context

The MAX941EUA-T implements a bipolar-input comparator core with fixed internal hysteresis (1mV typical trip width), eliminating external resistor networks. Its current-driven output stage delivers VOH = V+ – 0.2V (at 400μA) and VOL = 0.2V (at 400μA), enabling direct CMOS/TTL interfacing without pull-ups.

It integrates two digital control pins-SHDN and LATCH-both with high-impedance inputs and logic thresholds at V+/2 ± 0.4V. Shutdown disables the comparator and places the output in high-impedance state; latch stores the output state when LATCH is low, with defined setup/hold timing relative to input transitions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX941EUA-T is housed in an 8-pin μMAX® package (0.11" × 0.11", 0.05" pitch), pin-compatible with SO-8 and PDIP-8 footprints but with significantly reduced board area (≈30% of SO-8). The μMAX package features exposed paddle for thermal enhancement and is RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LMV7215M5X and TLV3201DBVR, the MAX941EUA-T uniquely integrates latch and shutdown in a μMAX package while maintaining 80ns speed and rail-to-rail input - making it optimal for battery-constrained systems requiring deterministic event capture and power cycling.

Availability

MAX941EUA-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, industrial line receivers, and 3.3V/5V threshold detection systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX941EUA-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 MAX941EUA-T belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, designed specifically for low-power, rail-to-rail, single-supply operation in portable and industrial systems where precision timing and supply flexibility are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the MAX941EUA-T?

The MAX941EUA-T has an absolute maximum supply voltage (V+ to GND) of +6.5V. However, its specified operating range is 2.7V to 5.5V. Operation above 5.5V risks violating parametric guarantees and may cause permanent damage. Always limit V+ to ≤5.5V in functional designs, and ensure transient spikes remain below +6.5V with appropriate clamping.

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

No, the MAX941EUA-T does not require external pull-up resistors. Its output stage actively drives high to V+ – 0.2V (at 400μA) and low to 0.2V (at 400μA), meeting standard CMOS/TTL logic thresholds directly. External pull-ups are unnecessary and may degrade switching speed or increase power consumption.

How does the internal hysteresis of the MAX941EUA-T improve noise immunity?

The MAX941EUA-T incorporates fixed internal hysteresis (~1mV input-referred), creating distinct upper and lower trip points. This prevents output chatter 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 additional components or calculations.

Can the MAX941EUA-T operate with input voltages below ground or above V+?

Yes. The MAX941EUA-T's input common-mode range extends from –0.2V to V+ + 0.2V, allowing valid operation with inputs slightly beyond both supply rails. This enables direct interfacing with sensors whose outputs exceed the supply (e.g., piezoelectric transducers or transformer-coupled signals), provided differential input voltage stays within ±2.2V limits.

What happens to the output of the MAX941EUA-T during shutdown mode?

When SHDN is driven low, the MAX941EUA-T enters shutdown mode: supply current drops to <60μA, and the output enters a high-impedance (tri-state) condition. The output is neither driven high nor low - it floats electrically. To avoid undefined logic states, external pull-up or pull-down resistors should be used on the output if connected to downstream logic during shutdown.