Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX951ESA+T

Overview

MAX951ESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a micropower single-supply analog IC integrating a unity-gain-stable operational amplifier, a comparator with internal 1.2V ±2% bandgap reference, and rail-to-rail output stages in an 8-pin SO package. It operates from 2.7V to 7V, draws 7μA typical supply current, supports common-mode input down to VSS and within 1.6V of VDD, and is used in battery-powered smoke detectors and infrared receiver front ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX951ESA+T datasheet, MAX951ESA+T pinout, MAX951ESA+T application, or MAX951ESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated reference accuracy, ultra-low quiescent current, rail-to-rail output swing, and guaranteed operation across –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The MAX951ESA+T implements a CMOS-based op amp with internal unity-gain compensation and a separate comparator whose inverting input is hardwired to the 1.2V reference. Both analog blocks share a common negative supply (VSS) and operate with rail-to-rail inputs and outputs.

Its comparator includes ±3mV internal hysteresis and delivers continuous 40mA sourcing capability without crowbar current during transitions, while the op amp maintains linearity under loaded conditions via a proprietary high-gain output stage optimized for sub-10μA supply current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX951ESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, 150 mil width, RoHS-compliant, with standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar op amp + comparator + reference applications.

Compared with MAX952ESA+T, the MAX951ESA+T offers lower power and unity-gain stability at the expense of bandwidth; compared with TLV2372IDR-based solutions, it reduces component count and PCB area but fixes reference voltage and comparator hysteresis.

Availability

MAX951ESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, safety-critical smoke detectors, and infrared remote control receivers requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial temperature support.

Supply support for MAX951ESA+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX951ESA+T belongs to the MAX951–MAX954 family of ultra-low-power, single-supply analog combos, engineered to minimize battery drain while integrating essential signal-conditioning functions for portable and safety-critical sensing systems.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the MAX951ESA+T?

The MAX951ESA+T is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, meeting industrial-grade requirements. This range is confirmed in the device's ordering information table and validated across all electrical specifications including reference voltage drift, input offset, and supply current. The "ESA" suffix explicitly denotes the SO package with extended temperature grade, distinct from commercial-grade variants.

Does the MAX951ESA+T require external compensation for op amp stability?

No, the MAX951ESA+T op amp is internally compensated for unity-gain stability and drives capacitive loads up to 1000pF without oscillation. Its design eliminates the need for external compensation networks, unlike the decompensated MAX952ESA+T variant. Stability is maintained across the full –40°C to +85°C range and supply voltages from 2.7V to 7V, as verified in the Typical Operating Characteristics graphs.

Can the internal reference of the MAX951ESA+T be bypassed or loaded externally?

No - the MAX951ESA+T reference output (pin 6) must not be bypassed with capacitance, as this risks instability. It is specified for loads ≤20μA and stable only with capacitive loads <100pF. Exceeding these limits may cause oscillation or reference voltage error. For higher current or lower noise, an external reference (e.g., REF3012) should be used instead of modifying the internal node.

How does the comparator hysteresis function in the MAX951ESA+T?

The MAX951ESA+T comparator includes fixed ±3mV internal hysteresis, centered on the 1.2V reference, ensuring clean switching even with slow-moving or noisy inputs. This hysteresis is intrinsic to the comparator core and requires no external components. It cannot be disabled or adjusted, but may be augmented using external positive feedback resistors if wider thresholds are needed for specific noise immunity requirements.

Is the MAX951ESA+T pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX951–MAX954 family?

Yes - all MAX951–MAX954 variants, including MAX951ESA+T, share identical 8-pin SO pinouts and terminal functions. Pin mapping (e.g., AMPOUT on pin 1, REF/COMPIN− on pin 6) is consistent across the family. However, functional differences exist: MAX951/MAX952 include the internal reference; MAX953/MAX954 omit it. Thus, direct substitution is electrically valid only within the same reference-equipped group.