Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX961EUA+T

Overview

MAX961EUA+T from Maxim Integrated is a single ultra-high-speed comparator with internal hysteresis, optimized for +3V/+5V single-supply operation. It delivers 4.5ns propagation delay (5mV overdrive), ±3.5mV input-referred hysteresis, and Beyond-the-Rails™ input range extending 100mV beyond VCC and GND - enabling direct sensing in battery-powered GPS receivers and high-speed sampling circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX961EUA+T datasheet, MAX961EUA+T pinout, MAX961EUA+T application, or MAX961EUA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include latch-enable functionality, shutdown mode (270μA), TTL/CMOS-compatible complementary outputs, and μMAX® 8-pin package compatibility with space-constrained portable systems.

Technical Context

The MAX961EUA+T implements a current-driven output stage that sources/sinks 4mA while maintaining VOH ≤ VCC − 0.52V and VOL ≥ 0.52V. Its internal 3.5mV hysteresis eliminates external feedback resistors and prevents oscillation near trip points.

It features a dedicated latch-enable (LE) input that places the comparator output into transparent mode when low and holds the last valid state when high, with verified timing parameters: tSU = 5ns, tH = 5ns, tLPW = 5ns, and tLPD = 10ns.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX961EUA+T is housed in an 8-pin μMAX® package (package code U8-1), measuring 3mm × 3mm × 0.8mm with exposed pad for thermal performance. This RoHS-compliant, lead(Pb)-free package supports high-density PCB layouts and reflow soldering.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX961ESA+, the MAX961EUA+T saves 50% board area and improves thermal performance; versus LMH7220MK/NOPB, it trades 0.3ns speed for integrated hysteresis, latch, shutdown, and rail-to-rail input capability - reducing total component count and design risk in portable systems.

Availability

MAX961EUA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPS receivers, portable threshold detectors, high-speed sampling circuits, and industrial line receivers requiring stable component supply across automotive-grade temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX961EUA+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 and mixed-signal ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX961EUA+T belongs to the MAX961–MAX964/MAX997/MAX999 family of ultra-high-speed comparators engineered specifically for low-voltage, single-supply portable systems where speed, power efficiency, and input flexibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX961EUA+T?

The MAX961EUA+T is specified over the −40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range (E grade). All electrical characteristics in its datasheet - including propagation delay, input offset voltage, and supply current - are guaranteed across this full range. The device uses standard silicon process technology and does not require derating for operation within these limits. MAX961EUA+T maintains 4.5ns typical propagation delay and 270μA shutdown current throughout this interval.

Does the MAX961EUA+T require external hysteresis resistors?

No, the MAX961EUA+T includes 3.5mV of internal input-referred hysteresis, eliminating the need for external feedback resistors. This fixed hysteresis prevents oscillation during slow-moving or noisy input transitions - especially near trip points - and ensures clean, bounce-free output switching. The hysteresis is inherent to the comparator's design and functions across the full −40°C to +85°C temperature range without adjustment. MAX961EUA+T thus simplifies layout and reduces BOM count compared to generic comparators.

How does the latch-enable function work on the MAX961EUA+T?

The MAX961EUA+T's latch-enable (LE) input controls output transparency: when LE is low, the comparator output follows input changes in real time; when LE is high, the output holds the last valid logic state. Timing requirements include 5ns setup time (tSU), 5ns hold time (tH), and 5ns minimum latch pulse width (tLPW). The latch is synchronized to comparator decision edges, not clocks. MAX961EUA+T uses this feature to capture transient events like pulse edges in sampling circuits without external storage elements.

Can the MAX961EUA+T operate from a 3.3V supply?

Yes, the MAX961EUA+T operates fully across 2.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with standard 3.3V logic rails. At VCC = 3.3V, it maintains guaranteed VOH ≥ 2.78V and VOL ≤ 0.52V while sinking or sourcing 4mA, ensuring robust interfacing with 3.3V CMOS and TTL families. Propagation delay increases slightly to ~5.2ns (vs. 4.5ns at 5V), and supply current drops to ~6.5mA - both within published specifications. MAX961EUA+T is widely used in 3.3V portable systems such as handheld test equipment and IoT sensor nodes.

What is the significance of the "Beyond-the-Rails™" input specification for the MAX961EUA+T?

Beyond-the-Rails™ means the MAX961EUA+T accepts input voltages from −0.1V to VCC + 0.1V - exceeding both supply rails by 100mV. This allows direct connection to sensors or transducers whose outputs swing below GND or above VCC (e.g., piezoelectric elements, transformer-coupled signals, or op-amp stages without level shifting). The input stage remains functional and linear within this extended range, preserving accurate trip-point behavior. MAX961EUA+T achieves this via specialized front-end protection diodes and resistor networks, confirmed in its Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables.