Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX968EUA+T

Overview

The MAX968EUA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual micropower comparator with rail-to-rail inputs/outputs, integrated 1.235V ±1.5% reference, programmable hysteresis, and ultra-low 1.6V to 5.5V single-supply operation. It draws only 10–16 µA per comparator (typical 13 µA), features open-drain outputs capable of sinking beyond VCC up to 6V, and operates across –40°C to +85°C in an 8-pin µMAX package - ideal for 2-cell battery-powered voltage monitoring and window detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX968EUA+T datasheet, MAX968EUA+T pinout, MAX968EUA+T application, or MAX968EUA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-channel architecture with shared hysteresis control, internal reference accuracy over temperature, rail-to-rail input common-mode range down to –0.25V, propagation delay of 10 µs (50mV overdrive), and compatibility with low-voltage portable systems requiring stable threshold detection without external references.

Technical Context

The MAX968EUA+T implements a dual-window comparator topology: both comparators share a common HYST pin and internal 1.235V reference, enabling coordinated high/low threshold detection with matched hysteresis programming. Its input stage supports rail-to-rail common-mode voltage from –0.25V to (VCC – 0.25V), and output stage uses slew-rate-controlled open-drain drivers compatible with pull-up voltages up to 6V.

Unlike the MAX967 (dual voltage monitor) or MAX966 (dual comparator without reference), the MAX968EUA+T is specifically configured as a window comparator - IN+ of Comparator A and IN– of Comparator B are internally tied to REF, while IN– of A and IN+ of B accept external input - enabling direct window violation detection with single-ended input and two independent open-drain outputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX968EUA+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX® package (U8-1), measuring 3.0mm × 3.0mm × 1.1mm with exposed pad for thermal enhancement and RoHS-compliant lead-free finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual comparator with reference applications.

Compared with MAX967EUA+T and TLV3702IDR, the MAX968EUA+T uniquely integrates window-comparator topology with internal reference and shared hysteresis - delivering lowest BOM count and smallest footprint for battery-powered threshold validation where trip points are centered on 1.235V.

Availability

MAX968EUA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 2-cell battery monitoring, portable supply-sensing, IR receiver interfaces, and low-power threshold detection requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX968EUA+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, medical, and portable systems.

The MAX965–MAX970 family was engineered for ultra-low-voltage, micropower comparator applications - specifically targeting battery-constrained devices needing rail-to-rail operation, integrated references, and programmable hysteresis without external components.

FAQ

What is the function of the HYST pin on the MAX968EUA+T?

The HYST pin on the MAX968EUA+T programs matched hysteresis for both comparators by accepting a voltage from REF down to (REF – 50mV). When connected directly to REF, it enables default ±1mV hysteresis; adding external resistors between REF, HYST, and GND scales hysteresis up to ±50mV. This pin ensures noise immunity in window detection without requiring separate networks per comparator - a key differentiator of the MAX968EUA+T versus generic dual comparators.

Can the MAX968EUA+T operate from a 1.5V supply?

The MAX968EUA+T is specified for +1.6V to +5.5V operation. At 1.5V, the internal 1.235V reference remains functional but degrades in accuracy and output drive capability; comparator propagation delay increases significantly and output sink current drops. While the device may exhibit marginal operation down to ~1.0V per datasheet notes, reliable performance - including guaranteed reference accuracy, hysteresis control, and 10 µs propagation delay - requires VCC ≥ 1.6V. For true 1.5V systems, consider alternative comparators rated for lower minimum supply.

How does the MAX968EUA+T differ from the MAX967EUA+T in window applications?

The MAX968EUA+T is explicitly configured as a window comparator: INB+ and INA– are hardwired to REF, accepting a single external input on INB– and INA+, respectively, to detect violations above and below the reference. The MAX967EUA+T is a dual voltage monitor - both IN+ pins connect to REF, but both IN– pins are fully accessible for independent resistor-divider thresholds. Thus, MAX968EUA+T delivers fixed window detection around 1.235V with minimal external components, while MAX967EUA+T supports asymmetric, user-defined high/low thresholds.

What is the maximum sink current capability of the MAX968EUA+T outputs?

The MAX968EUA+T open-drain outputs can sink up to 10mA continuously (per output) at VCC = 5.5V and TA = +25°C, with short-circuit capability to GND or VCC. At lower supplies (e.g., 1.6V), sink current decreases - typical values are ~2mA at 1.6V and ~8mA at 3.0V. The output low voltage (V_OL) remains ≤0.4V at 500µA load for VCC > 2.7V, ensuring robust logic-level compatibility. Always verify sink current vs. temperature curves in the datasheet for worst-case design margins.

Is the MAX968EUA+T pin-compatible with other MAX96x µMAX packages?

Yes - the MAX968EUA+T uses the standard 8-pin µMAX package (U8-1) with identical pinout and footprint as MAX965EUA+T, MAX966EUA+T, and MAX967EUA+T. All share the same mechanical dimensions, pad layout, and thermal pad configuration. However, electrical functionality differs: MAX965 is single-channel, MAX966 lacks REF/HYST, and MAX967 uses dual monitor topology. Direct replacement is not functionally valid without verifying circuit compatibility with the specific comparator architecture.