Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX942EPA

Overview

The MAX942EPA 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 outputs. It operates across –40°C to +85°C and is used in battery-powered threshold detection and line receiver circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX942EPA datasheet, MAX942EPA pinout, MAX942EPA application, or MAX942EPA equivalent, key selection criteria include input common-mode range beyond rails, internal hysteresis for noise immunity, output swing within 0.4V of supply rails, and compatibility with low-voltage portable designs requiring fast, low-power analog decision-making.

Technical Context

The MAX942EPA implements a bipolar process-based comparator core with fixed internal hysteresis (±1mV typical trip point spread), enabling clean switching on slow-moving or noisy signals without external components. Its rail-to-rail input stage accepts voltages from –0.2V to V+ + 0.2V, and its current-driven output stage delivers VOH = V+ – 0.2V (at 400μA) and VOL = 0.2V (at 400μA).

Unlike the MAX941, the MAX942EPA lacks latch and shutdown functions; it is strictly a dual comparator with independent IN+/IN– pairs and separate OUTA/OUTB outputs. Propagation delay skew between channels is ≤10ns, and differential propagation delay is guaranteed ≤10ns, supporting matched timing in dual-channel sensing applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX942EPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise convention from top view.

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 MAX942EPA uniquely balances 80ns speed, –40°C to +85°C operation, rail-to-rail inputs, and integrated hysteresis - making it optimal for robust, medium-speed industrial sensing where reliability across temperature and noise immunity are essential.

Availability

The MAX942EPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors/discriminators, and line receivers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX942EPA 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX942EPA belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power, rail-to-rail sensing in portable and industrial equipment where timing accuracy and supply flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the MAX942EPA?

The MAX942EPA has an absolute maximum supply voltage (V+ to GND) of +6.5V. Operation is specified from 2.7V to 5.5V. Exceeding 6.5V risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, maintain V+ within the 2.7V–5.5V range, especially under temperature extremes. The MAX942EPA datasheet confirms this rating in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.

Does the MAX942EPA include internal hysteresis, and how does it affect performance?

Yes, the MAX942EPA includes fixed internal hysteresis, resulting in distinct upper and lower input trip points (typically ±1mV around VOS). This eliminates oscillation on slow or noisy inputs and removes the need for external hysteresis resistors. The hysteresis width is inherent to the device design and cannot be adjusted. This feature is confirmed in the MAX942EPA datasheet's Features and Detailed Description sections.

Can the MAX942EPA operate from a 2.7V supply, and what performance changes occur?

Yes, the MAX942EPA is fully specified to operate from 2.7V to 5.5V. At 2.7V, propagation delay increases slightly (to ≤200ns max), supply current decreases (~350μA typ), and output swing remains functional (VOH ≈ 2.5V, VOL ≈ 0.2V at 400μA). These values are guaranteed across –40°C to +85°C. The MAX942EPA Electrical Characteristics table explicitly lists parameters at V+ = 2.7V.

Is the MAX942EPA pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX94x family?

The MAX942EPA (8-pin PDIP) shares the same pinout as the MAX942CPA, MAX942ESA, and MAX942EUA-T - all dual comparators with identical pin assignments. However, it is not pin-compatible with the single MAX941 or quad MAX944, which have different pin counts and functions. Pin compatibility is verified in the MAX942EPA Pin Configurations diagram and Ordering Information table.

What is the input common-mode voltage range of the MAX942EPA, and why does it matter?

The MAX942EPA input common-mode range extends from –0.2V to V+ + 0.2V, exceeding both supply rails. This allows direct connection to sensors or signal sources that swing below GND or above V+, such as piezoelectric transducers or op-amp outputs with headroom limitations. This specification is measured and guaranteed per the MAX942EPA datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table under "Input Voltage Range."