Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX972CPA

Overview

The MAX972CPA from Maxim Integrated is a single, ultra-low-power, open-drain comparator with no internal voltage reference and no programmable hysteresis, housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP package. It operates from a single 2.5V to 11V supply (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V dual supplies), draws ≤4µA supply current over temperature, supports rail-to-rail input common-mode range down to V− and within 1.3V of V+, and features 12µs propagation delay at 10mV overdrive - ideal for battery-powered threshold detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX972CPA datasheet, MAX972CPA pinout, MAX972CPA application, or MAX972CPA equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world use cases in low-power sensing and level translation, and two confirmed alternative comparators with documented functional and parametric differences.

Technical Context

The MAX972CPA is a micropower comparator without integrated reference or hysteresis circuitry, requiring external reference and feedback if hysteresis is needed. Its input stage accepts voltages from V− to (V+ − 1.3V), enabling operation near supply rails in single- or dual-supply configurations.

It features an open-drain output that sinks current to V− (not GND), distinguishing it from MAX971/MAX974 variants. Propagation delay is 12µs (10mV overdrive, 100pF load, 1MΩ pullup), and output leakage remains ≤100nA at 11V - supporting reliable wire-OR and level-shifting applications across wide supply ranges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX972CPA uses an 8-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width and standard through-hole footprint compatible with legacy PCB layouts and manual prototyping.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX971CPA, MAX972CPA trades reference/hysteresis integration for lower supply current and greater flexibility in reference selection; versus LM393DR, it sacrifices speed and output drive to achieve micropower operation in space-constrained DIP layouts.

Availability

MAX972CPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, level translators, and oscillator circuits requiring stable component supply with commercial-temperature performance and through-hole manufacturability.

Supply support for MAX972CPA 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 communications markets.

The MAX97x/MAX98x comparator family targets ultra-low-power, open-drain sensing in resource-constrained environments - emphasizing micropower operation, wide supply flexibility, and robust input/output staging for legacy and emerging systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for MAX972CPA?

The MAX972CPA supports a maximum total supply voltage of 11V - whether operated from a single 2.5V–11V supply or dual ±1.25V–±5.5V supplies. Absolute maximum ratings specify V+ to V− up to +12V, but functional operation is guaranteed only up to 11V. Exceeding 11V risks parametric degradation or reliability impact, especially at elevated temperatures.

Does MAX972CPA have an internal voltage reference?

No, MAX972CPA does not include an internal voltage reference. Unlike MAX971CPA or MAX981CPA, the MAX972CPA variant is explicitly specified in the Ordering Information table as having "None" for internal precision reference. Users must provide an external reference (e.g., TLV431, REF3012) for threshold-setting applications.

Can MAX972CPA be used with a single 3.3V supply?

Yes, MAX972CPA operates fully across 2.5V–11V single supplies, including 3.3V. At 3.3V, typical supply current is ≤3.0µA (C-temp range), input common-mode range spans 0V to 2.0V, and propagation delay remains 12µs at 10mV overdrive - making it suitable for low-voltage IoT sensors and wearables where supply headroom is limited.

What is the function of Pin 5 and Pin 6 on MAX972CPA?

Pin 5 (INB−) and Pin 6 (INB+) on MAX972CPA are unused terminals - the MAX972 contains only one comparator, and these pins correspond to the second comparator found in dual variants like MAX973CPA. They are not bonded internally and must be left unconnected; tying them to V− or V+ may cause leakage or latch-up and is not recommended.

Is MAX972CPA pin-compatible with MAX971CPA?

Yes, MAX972CPA and MAX971CPA share identical 8-pin DIP pinouts and electrical footprints, including V+, V−, INA+, INA−, OUTA, and GND placements. However, MAX971CPA repurposes Pin 5 as HYST and Pin 6 as REF, whereas MAX972CPA leaves those pins unconnected. PCBs designed for MAX971CPA can accept MAX972CPA, but external reference and hysteresis circuitry must be removed or disabled.