Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX942CSA+

Overview

The MAX942CSA+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual high-speed comparator optimized for 3V/5V single-supply systems, featuring rail-to-rail inputs, 80ns propagation delay (5mV overdrive), 350μA per comparator supply current, and CMOS/TTL-compatible push-pull outputs. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V and is used in battery-powered threshold detection, line reception, and zero-crossing circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX942CSA+ datasheet, MAX942CSA+ pinout, MAX942CSA+ application, or MAX942CSA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include input common-mode range beyond rails (–0.2V to V₊ + 0.2V), 1mV typical offset voltage, internal hysteresis for noise immunity, output swing within 0.4V of rails, and SO-8 package compatibility with industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The MAX942CSA+ implements a bipolar process comparator core with rail-to-rail input stage enabling operation with inputs extended 0.2V beyond either supply rail. Its current-driven output stage delivers fast transitions while maintaining low static power-supply current remains stable at 350μA per comparator across 2.7V–5.5V supply range.

Internal hysteresis eliminates need for external feedback resistors and ensures clean switching on slow-moving signals. Propagation delay skew between channels is ≤10ns, and differential propagation delay is ≤10ns-critical for matched timing in dual-channel applications such as differential line receivers or window comparators.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX942CSA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, RoHS-compliant, with standard 1.27mm pitch and 5.0mm × 4.0mm body size.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM393DR and TLV3502IDR, the MAX942CSA+ delivers optimal balance of speed (80ns), ultra-low power (350μA), and true rail-to-rail input capability in a standard SO-8 footprint-making it ideal for legacy-compatible upgrades in 3V/5V portable and industrial systems where timing precision and supply flexibility are critical.

Availability

The MAX942CSA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, industrial sensor interfaces, and 3.3V/5V embedded control systems requiring stable component supply across production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX942CSA+ 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 MAX94x family was designed specifically for high-speed, low-power, single-supply comparator applications in portable and space-constrained systems-emphasizing rail-to-rail operation, minimal external components, and robust fault tolerance.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX942CSA+?

The MAX942CSA+ is rated for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation. This commercial-grade temperature range is validated per Maxim's ordering information table and applies to all electrical specifications unless otherwise noted. The device uses a standard SO-8 package with JEDEC MS-012AC outline, and thermal derating begins above +70°C at 5.88mW/°C. For extended temperature applications, consider MAX942ESA+ (–40°C to +85°C) or MAX942AUA+ (–40°C to +125°C).

Does the MAX942CSA+ have built-in hysteresis, and how does it affect threshold accuracy?

Yes, the MAX942CSA+ includes fixed internal hysteresis of approximately 3mV input-referred width. This eliminates external hysteresis resistors and prevents output chatter on slow or noisy inputs. However, it introduces a small deadband: the rising and falling trip points differ by ~3mV. For applications requiring precise, single-threshold detection (e.g., calibration references), this hysteresis must be accounted for in system-level error budgeting-actual threshold uncertainty is ±1.5mV around the nominal setpoint.

Can the MAX942CSA+ drive TTL loads directly without pull-up resistors?

Yes, the MAX942CSA+ features push-pull (not open-drain) CMOS/TTL-compatible outputs. Each output can source up to 400μA while maintaining V_OH ≥ V₊ – 0.2V and sink up to 4mA while holding V_OL ≤ 0.4V. This meets standard TTL input high-level voltage (≥2.0V at V₊ = 5V) and low-level current (≤1.6mA) requirements. No external pull-up resistors are needed-unlike open-drain comparators such as LM393, which require them for logic-level translation.

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the MAX942CSA+?

The absolute maximum supply voltage for the MAX942CSA+ is +6.5V between V+ and GND, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Continuous operation above 5.5V is not recommended-the guaranteed operating range is 2.7V to 5.5V. Exceeding 5.5V may cause parametric degradation or accelerated aging, even if below the 6.5V absolute limit. For 6V systems, use external regulation or select a comparator with wider supply range (e.g., MAX961).

Is the MAX942CSA+ pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX94x family?

No, the MAX942CSA+ is not pin-compatible with MAX941 or MAX944 variants. While all share the same 8-pin SO footprint, pin functions differ: MAX941 includes SHDN and LATCH pins (absent in MAX942), and MAX944 uses a 14-pin package. Within the MAX942 family, MAX942CSA+, MAX942ESA+, and MAX942MSA+ share identical pinouts (OUTA, INA−, INA+, V+, INB+, INB−, OUTB, GND). Substitution among these requires only temperature grade verification-not PCB redesign.