Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX951EPA+
- Part No.:
- MAX951EPA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Special Purpose Amplifiers
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX951EPA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC AMP COMP REF 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,626
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Product details
Overview
MAX951EPA+ from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-low-power, single-supply analog IC integrating a unity-gain-stable op amp, comparator with internal 1.2V ±2% bandgap reference, and rail-to-rail output stages in an 8-pin PDIP package. It operates from 2.7V to 7V, draws 7μA typical supply current, and supports common-mode input down to VSS and outputs swinging within 400mV of rails - ideal for battery-powered smoke detectors and infrared receiver front ends.
For engineers reviewing the MAX951EPA+ datasheet, MAX951EPA+ pinout, MAX951EPA+ application, or MAX951EPA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated reference accuracy (±2%), rail-to-rail output drive capability (70µA source/sink), low-input-bias-current op amp (<5pA), and guaranteed operation across –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.
Technical Context
The MAX951EPA+ implements a monolithic CMOS architecture combining three functional blocks: a unity-gain-compensated op amp with 20kHz gain-bandwidth product and 12.5V/ms slew rate; a comparator with ±3mV internal hysteresis, 22µs response time at 10mV overdrive, and continuous 40mA sourcing capability; and a buffered 1.2V bandgap reference stable under ≤100pF capacitive load.
All signal paths share a common negative supply rail (VSS), support input common-mode range from VSS to VDD–1.6V, and deliver rail-to-rail outputs without external level-shifting - enabling direct interfacing with microcontroller ADCs and logic inputs in single-supply systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.7V to 7V - compatible with standard 3V and 5V battery or regulated supplies without external regulators. |
| Typical Supply Current | 7μA - enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in always-on sensor monitoring applications. |
| Reference Voltage | 1.200V ±2% (–40°C to +85°C) - provides stable, factory-trimmed threshold for comparator and precision biasing for op amp circuits. |
| Op Amp Gain-Bandwidth | 20kHz - sufficient for DC-coupled sensor buffering and low-frequency filtering (e.g., smoke chamber signals & IR carrier demodulation). |
| Comparator Response Time | 22µs at 10mV overdrive - ensures reliable detection of slow-moving alarm thresholds while rejecting noise via built-in hysteresis. |
| Input Bias Current | <5pA (typical) - preserves signal integrity when amplifying high-impedance sources like ionization chambers or photodiodes. |
| Rail-to-Rail Output Swing | VOL = VSS + 50mV, VOH = VDD – 500mV (RL = 100kΩ) - eliminates need for level-shifting circuitry when driving MCU GPIOs or logic gates. |
Pinout & Package
MAX951EPA+ uses an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.300" wide body and 0.100" lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; leads are tin-lead (Pb-free suffix '+' indicates RoHS-compliant finish).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - AMPOUT | Op Amp Output | Drives loads up to 1000pF directly; rail-to-rail swing enables full dynamic range utilization with single-supply ADCs. |
| 2 - AMPIN− | Inverting Op Amp Input | High-impedance CMOS node; input bias current <5pA minimizes error in high-Z sensor interfaces. |
| 3 - AMPIN+ | Noninverting Op Amp Input | Accepts signals from VSS to VDD–1.6V; used for reference-biased preamp configurations in smoke/IR sensors. |
| 4 - VSS | Negative Supply / Ground | Common return for op amp, comparator, and reference; must be low-impedance to avoid crosstalk-induced offset shifts. |
| 5 - COMPIN+ | Noninverting Comparator Input | Differential input referenced to internal 1.2V on pin 6; accepts slow-moving analog thresholds (e.g., ion chamber voltage drift). |
| 6 - REF / COMPIN− | 1.2V Reference Output & Inverting Comparator Input | Internally connected node - provides precise, low-noise reference for comparator trip point; not bypassed per datasheet. |
| 7 - COMPOUT | Comparator Output | CMOS rail-to-rail output capable of sourcing 40mA continuously; drives LEDs, MOSFET gates, or MCU interrupt pins directly. |
| 8 - VDD | Positive Supply | Accepts 2.7V–7V; requires 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor to VSS for stability in noisy environments. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 1.2V ±2% reference | Eliminates external voltage reference IC and associated trimming components - reduces BOM count and layout area in space-constrained smoke/IR modules. |
| Rail-to-rail I/O with VSS-referenced inputs | Enables true single-supply operation down to 2.7V without level shifters or dual supplies - critical for coin-cell-powered remote sensors. |
| ±3mV internal comparator hysteresis | Prevents chatter on slow-moving inputs (e.g., thermal drift in smoke chamber voltage), removing need for external hysteresis resistors. |
| Unity-gain-stable op amp | Stable with capacitive loads up to 1000pF - simplifies photodiode preamp design without compensation networks or feedback capacitors. |
| Ultra-low 7μA supply current | Supports >5-year battery life in continuous-monitoring applications (e.g., smart card readers, safety sensors) without duty-cycling circuitry. |
Applications
| Smoke Detector Sensor Interface | Infrared Remote Receiver Front End |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Ionization chamber in residential smoke alarms generates sub-nA currents; voltage on intermediate plate rises during smoke ingress. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX951EPA+ op amp buffers high-impedance chamber voltage; comparator triggers alarm when buffered voltage exceeds 1.2V reference. Use Value: Sub-5pA input bias prevents signal loss; integrated reference ensures consistent trip point across temperature; 7μA quiescent current extends battery life. | Use Scenario: NEC-compatible IR remote signals (38kHz carrier, 10kHz envelope) received by photodiode in TV remotes or smart home devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX951EPA+ op amp acts as transimpedance amplifier and bandpass filter; comparator converts analog envelope to clean digital pulse train. Use Value: Rail-to-rail output drives MCU GPIO directly; internal hysteresis rejects ambient light noise; low supply current enables always-on reception. |
| Battery-Powered Bar-Code Scanner Trigger | Low-Frequency Local Alarm System |
Use Scenario: Handheld scanner detects laser reflection intensity change; output must trigger microcontroller on valid scan event. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX951EPA+ comparator compares photodiode signal against 1.2V reference; op amp conditions weak analog signal before comparison. Use Value: 22µs propagation delay ensures fast response to scan events; 7μA supply current allows multi-week operation on AA batteries. | Use Scenario: Wireless perimeter alarm using 10kHz RF carrier; receiver detects field disturbance from intruder proximity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX951EPA+ op amp amplifies resonant tank signal; comparator provides clean digital output for microcontroller wake-up. Use Value: Single 5V supply simplifies power design; integrated reference eliminates calibration; rail-to-rail output interfaces directly with low-voltage logic. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar op amp + comparator + reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX952EPA+ | Same package and pinout; decompensated op amp (125kHz GBW, AV ≥10V/V); same reference and comparator | Better suited for higher-speed signal conditioning (e.g., faster IR data links), but requires minimum gain of 10V/V | Select MAX952EPA+ only if closed-loop gain ≥10V/V is acceptable; otherwise MAX951EPA+ remains optimal for unity-gain sensor buffering. |
| TLV2304IPW | Separate dual op amp + comparator (no integrated reference); 1.2μA supply current per channel; no rail-to-rail outputs | Requires external 1.2V reference and level-shifting; lower power but higher component count and board area | Choose TLV2304IPW only when strict power budget (<3μA total) outweighs integration benefits and PCB space constraints. |
Compared with MAX952EPA+, MAX951EPA+ offers guaranteed unity-gain stability for direct sensor buffering, while TLV2304IPW trades integration for ultra-low power but demands external reference and level-shifting - making MAX951EPA+ the optimal choice for compact, single-supply, battery-operated safety and sensing nodes.
Availability
MAX951EPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smoke detector manufacturing, infrared remote receiver modules, battery-powered bar-code scanners, and low-frequency local alarm systems requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial temperature support.
Supply support for MAX951EPA+ 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and consumer applications - emphasizing integration, reliability, and low-power operation.
The MAX951–MAX954 family was engineered to consolidate op amp, comparator, and reference functions into one die for portable and safety-critical systems where board space, power, and component count are constrained.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range of the MAX951EPA+?
The MAX951EPA+ is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, meeting industrial temperature requirements. This range is validated across all electrical parameters including reference voltage accuracy (±2%), input offset voltage, and supply current - ensuring reliable performance in smoke detectors and outdoor alarm systems where ambient temperatures fluctuate widely. The MAX951EPA+ part number explicitly denotes this extended temperature grade.
Does the MAX951EPA+ require an external reference voltage?
No, the MAX951EPA+ integrates a factory-trimmed 1.200V ±2% bandgap reference on pin 6 (REF), which is internally connected to the comparator's inverting input. This eliminates the need for external reference ICs or resistor dividers in threshold-detection applications. The reference is stable under ≤100pF capacitive load and must not be bypassed - a key design requirement specified in the MAX951EPA+ datasheet.
Can the MAX951EPA+ drive capacitive loads directly?
Yes, the MAX951EPA+ op amp is unity-gain stable and capable of driving up to 1000pF capacitive loads without oscillation or excessive overshoot - verified in the "OP AMP PERCENT OVERSHOOT vs. CAPACITIVE LOAD" graph. This makes it suitable for direct connection to photodiode capacitance or long PCB traces in IR receiver front ends, unlike many micropower op amps that require external compensation.
What is the maximum continuous output current of the MAX951EPA+ comparator?
The MAX951EPA+ comparator output can continuously source up to 40mA and sink over 5mA while maintaining microamp-level quiescent current. This allows direct driving of LEDs, small relays, or MOSFET gates without external buffers - a key advantage in space-constrained smoke detector alarm circuits where discrete drivers would increase cost and failure risk. Peak pulsed sourcing up to 100mA is possible at VDD = 5V, provided power dissipation limits are observed.
How does the internal hysteresis of the MAX951EPA+ comparator improve noise immunity?
The MAX951EPA+ comparator includes ±3mV internal hysteresis, creating a 6mV window between upper and lower switching thresholds. This prevents output chatter caused by noise or slow-moving input signals - such as thermal drift in smoke chamber voltages or ambient light fluctuations in IR receivers. Unlike external hysteresis solutions, this feature requires no additional resistors or board area and is fully characterized across temperature and supply voltage.
MAX951EPA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Amplifier, Comparator, Reference
- Applications:
- Smart Card
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
MAX951EPA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX951EPA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX951EPA+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX951EPA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX951EPA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX951EPA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX951EPA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX951EPA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX951EPA+?
MAX951EPA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX951EPA+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX951EPA+?
For technical support, including MAX951EPA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX951EPA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX951EPA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX951EPA+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX951EPA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX951EPA+?
All MAX951EPA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX951EPA+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX951EPA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX951EPA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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