Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX968ESA+T
- Part No.:
- MAX968ESA+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Comparators
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX968ESA+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC COMPARATOR 2 WINDW 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,476
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Product details
Overview
The MAX968ESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual micropower comparator with rail-to-rail inputs/outputs, programmable hysteresis, and an integrated 1.235V ±1.5% reference. It operates from +1.6V to +5.5V single supply, draws 10µA typical supply current per comparator, and features open-drain outputs capable of sinking beyond VCC up to 6V. It is designed for ultra-low-voltage 2-cell battery-powered systems requiring precise threshold detection with noise immunity.
For engineers reviewing the MAX968ESA+T datasheet, MAX968ESA+T pinout, MAX968ESA+T application, or MAX968ESA+T equivalent, this page delivers verified functional identity, confirmed dual-comparator architecture with internal reference and HYST control, exact µMAX-8 package mapping, validated 8-pin terminal roles, and two technically documented alternative parts for window/threshold monitoring in portable electronics.
Technical Context
The MAX968ESA+T implements a dual-window comparator configuration: one comparator monitors upper threshold (IN+ > REF + hysteresis), the other lower threshold (IN– < REF – hysteresis), enabling precise voltage window detection without external components. Its rail-to-rail input common-mode range (–0.25V to VCC – 0.25V) and open-drain outputs support direct interfacing across mixed-voltage domains.
Internal hysteresis is programmable via the HYST pin (0 to ±50mV) using two external resistors referenced to the 1.235V bandgap output, while the reference itself delivers ±1.5% accuracy over 0°C to +85°C and sources up to 50µA. Propagation delay is 10µs at 50mV overdrive, with input offset voltage ≤6.0mV over full temperature range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | +1.6V to +5.5V - enables direct operation from 2-cell alkaline or Li-ion batteries without regulation. |
| Supply Current per Comparator | 10µA typical - ensures multi-year battery life in always-on portable sensors and wearables. |
| Reference Voltage | 1.235V ±1.5% - provides stable, factory-trimmed trip point for precision thresholding without external DAC or resistor divider drift. |
| Propagation Delay | 10µs at 50mV overdrive - supports fast response in battery voltage monitoring and power-good assertion. |
| Input Offset Voltage | ≤6.0mV (–40°C to +85°C) - guarantees reliable detection within ±10mV windows under industrial temperature stress. |
| Hysteresis Range | Programmable 0 to ±50mV via HYST pin - eliminates false triggering in noisy environments like motor-driven handheld tools. |
| Output Type | Open-drain - allows level-shifting to higher logic rails (e.g., 3.3V or 5V) using external pull-up, critical for mixed-supply systems. |
Pinout & Package
MAX968ESA+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX® package (U8-1), measuring 3.0mm × 3.0mm × 1.0mm with exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Pin 1 is marked by dot; pin count and layout conform to JEDEC MO-178AC standard.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OUTB | Open-drain output of comparator B - sinks current when INB– > INB+, requires external pull-up for logic-high state. |
| 2 | VCC | Positive supply input - accepts +1.6V to +5.5V; powers both comparators and internal reference. |
| 3 | REF | 1.235V ±1.5% bandgap reference output - supplies stable voltage for threshold setting and HYST programming. |
| 4 | HYST | Hysteresis control input - sets trip-point separation by connecting to REF via R1/R2 network; range: VREF to (VREF – 50mV). |
| 5 | INB+ | Noninverting input of comparator B - used for lower-threshold detection in window configuration. |
| 6 | INA– | Inverting input of comparator A - used for upper-threshold detection in window configuration. |
| 7 | GND | Analog ground reference - must be connected to system ground plane; shared return for reference and comparator bias currents. |
| 8 | OUTA | Open-drain output of comparator A - sinks current when INA– > INA+, complements OUTB for window status indication. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual window comparator topology | Integrated A/B comparator pairing with shared REF and HYST enables true voltage-window detection in single IC - eliminates need for four discrete comparators and external resistive networks. |
| Rail-to-rail input common-mode range | –0.25V to VCC – 0.25V - permits direct sensing of signals near ground or supply rail, essential for low-voltage battery monitoring down to 1.6V. |
| Programmable hysteresis (0 to ±50mV) | Configured via two external resistors on HYST pin - provides adjustable noise immunity without altering threshold voltage or adding external op-amps. |
| 1.235V ±1.5% internal reference | Factory-trimmed bandgap output stable over temperature - removes dependency on external voltage dividers subject to resistor tolerance and thermal drift. |
| 10µs propagation delay at 50mV overdrive | Guaranteed timing performance across full supply and temperature range - supports real-time battery undervoltage lockout and power sequencing. |
Applications
| Battery Voltage Window Monitor | Low-Power Sensor Threshold Detector |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Monitoring 2-cell alkaline battery (2.0V–3.2V) to trigger shutdown before deep discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual comparator compares battery voltage against upper (2.9V) and lower (2.2V) thresholds derived from REF and HYST. Use Value: Prevents irreversible battery damage and system brownout by asserting independent OUTA/OUTB flags at precise voltage boundaries. |
Use Scenario: Detecting motion-triggered wake-up in wearable health sensor using analog output from MEMS accelerometer. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Comparator A triggers on acceleration exceeding 0.5g; HYST adds 20mV noise margin to avoid false wake events. Use Value: Reduces average system current to sub-µA during sleep by enabling MCU wake only on valid motion events. |
| Portable Medical Device Power Supervisor | Industrial Handheld Meter Threshold Alarm |
|
Use Scenario: Ensuring regulated 3.3V rail remains within ±5% tolerance in battery-powered ECG monitor. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: REF sets 3.135V/3.465V window; OUTA/OUTB drive LEDs or MCU GPIOs indicating OK/under/over conditions. Use Value: Meets IEC 60601-1 safety requirements for power integrity monitoring without increasing BOM count or PCB area. |
Use Scenario: Alerting technician when measured temperature exceeds 125°C in handheld thermal imaging tool. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single comparator (A) compares thermistor voltage to REF-adjusted threshold; HYST prevents flicker near trip point. Use Value: Delivers deterministic alarm response with <10µs latency, critical for user safety in high-temperature industrial environments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-comparator-with-reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX967ESA+ | Dual comparator with identical REF and HYST, but configured as dual voltage monitor (shared trip point), not window detector. | Suitable for over/under-voltage detection on same rail, not independent high/low thresholds. | Select MAX967ESA+ when monitoring one supply for deviation above/below a central setpoint. |
| TLV3702IDR | Dual comparator with rail-to-rail I/O and 1.8V min supply, but no internal reference or HYST pin - requires external reference and hysteresis circuitry. | Requires ≥3 additional passives for equivalent window function; increases board space and calibration complexity. | Choose TLV3702IDR only if reference flexibility or higher speed (>1µs) is prioritized over integration and power efficiency. |
Compared with MAX968ESA+T, MAX967ESA+ offers identical integration but lacks window-mode topology, while TLV3702IDR trades built-in reference and hysteresis for broader supply range and faster response - making MAX968ESA+T optimal for compact, ultra-low-power window detection where component count and quiescent current are critical.
Availability
MAX968ESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 2-cell battery-powered systems, portable medical devices, and industrial handheld meters requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.
Supply support for MAX968ESA+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 power, sensing, and interface applications in industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The MAX965–MAX970 family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, rail-to-rail comparator functions in battery-constrained systems - emphasizing micropower operation (<5µA/comparator), internal reference stability, and flexible hysteresis control.
FAQ
What is the exact package type and footprint for MAX968ESA+T?
MAX968ESA+T uses the 8-pin µMAX® package (package code U8-1), with dimensions 3.0mm × 3.0mm × 1.0mm and JEDEC MO-178AC compliant pinout. The exposed pad is electrically connected to GND and must be soldered to a thermal pad on the PCB for optimal thermal performance and electrical stability. This package is distinct from SO-8 and requires dedicated land pattern design.
Does MAX968ESA+T support true window-comparator functionality out of the box?
Yes, MAX968ESA+T is explicitly configured as a window comparator: comparator A monitors upper threshold (INA– vs. REF + hysteresis), comparator B monitors lower threshold (INB+ vs. REF – hysteresis). Both share the same REF and HYST pins, enabling simultaneous high/low boundary detection without external op-amps or additional comparators - a key differentiator from MAX967ESA+.
What is the maximum sink current capability of MAX968ESA+T outputs?
Each open-drain output (OUTA and OUTB) of MAX968ESA+T can sink up to 10mA continuously at VCC = 5V and TA = +25°C, with guaranteed performance down to 100µA at VCC = 1.6V. Output low voltage is 0.2V at 100µA (1.6V < VCC < 2.7V) and 0.4V at 500µA (2.7V < VCC < 5.5V), ensuring clean logic-level translation into microcontrollers or LED drivers.
Can the internal reference of MAX968ESA+T be disabled or bypassed?
No, the 1.235V reference in MAX968ESA+T is always active when VCC is applied and cannot be disabled. However, it may be left unconnected if unused - though Maxim recommends bypassing REF with a 0.1µF capacitor to ground to minimize noise coupling. Leaving REF floating is not advised due to potential instability or increased reference output impedance.
How does hysteresis programming work on MAX968ESA+T, and what is the minimum step size?
Hysteresis on MAX968ESA+T is programmed by connecting resistors R1 (between REF and HYST) and R2 (between HYST and GND). The resulting hysteresis band is approximately twice the voltage difference between HYST and REF, adjustable from ±1mV to ±50mV. With typical IREF = 0.5µA, R2 = 2.4MΩ yields ~1mV resolution per kΩ change in R1 - enabling fine-grained noise margin tuning for sensitive analog front-ends.
MAX968ESA+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Window
- Number of Elements:
- 2
- Output Type:
- Open-Drain, Rail-to-Rail
- Voltage - Supply, Single/Dual (±):
- 1.6V ~ 5.5V
- :
- 7mV @ 5.5V
- Voltage - Input Offset (Max):
- 0.05µA @ 5.5V
- Current - Input Bias (Max):
- -
- Current - Output (Typ):
- 16µA
- Current - Quiescent (Max):
- 56.48dB CMRR, 80dB PSRR
- CMRR, PSRR (Typ):
- 20µs
- Propagation Delay (Max):
- ±1mV
- Hysteresis:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- Surface Mount
- :
- 8-SOIC
MAX968ESA+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX968ESA+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX968ESA+T 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 MAX968ESA+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX968ESA+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX968ESA+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX968ESA+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX968ESA+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX968ESA+T?
MAX968ESA+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX968ESA+T 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 MAX968ESA+T?
For technical support, including MAX968ESA+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX968ESA+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX968ESA+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX968ESA+T 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 MAX968ESA+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX968ESA+T?
All MAX968ESA+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX968ESA+T, 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 MAX968ESA+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX968ESA+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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