Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX972CSA+T

Overview

The MAX972CSA+T 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 SO package. It operates from a single 2.5V to 11V supply (or ±1.25V to ±5.5V dual supplies), draws ≤4µA quiescent current over temperature, supports rail-to-rail input common-mode range down to V− and up to V+ − 1.3V, and features an open-drain output capable of sinking to GND. It is used in battery-powered threshold detection where minimal supply current and flexible level translation are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX972CSA+T datasheet, MAX972CSA+T pinout, MAX972CSA+T application, or MAX972CSA+T equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world use cases for low-power sensing and level shifting, and two confirmed alternative comparators with documented functional and parametric differences.

Technical Context

The MAX972CSA+T is a micropower comparator without an integrated reference or hysteresis circuitry - unlike MAX971/MAX982 variants. Its input stage accepts signals from V− to (V+ − 1.3V), enabling operation near supply rails in single- or dual-supply configurations. The open-drain output connects internally to GND (not V−), supporting wire-OR logic and bipolar-to-single-ended level translation up to 11V.

Unlike MAX972 variants with UCSP packaging, the MAX972CSA+T uses standard SO-8 with exposed pad not present; its propagation delay is 12µs (10mV overdrive, 100pF load, 1MΩ pullup), and output low voltage is ≤0.4V at 1.8mA sink current. No HYST or REF pins are implemented - simplifying design but requiring external reference and hysteresis if needed.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX972CSA+T is packaged in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) surface-mount package per JEDEC MS-012, with standard lead pitch (1.27mm) and body dimensions 4.9mm × 6.0mm × 1.75mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX972CSA+T, MAX971CSA+T adds reference and hysteresis at identical quiescent current and package, while TLV3701CDR reduces supply current further but changes output reference from GND to V− - affecting level-shifting topology and supply domain isolation.

Availability

MAX972CSA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, level translators, and oscillator control circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX972CSA+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 communications markets.

The MAX97x/MAX98x comparator family targets ultra-low-power sensing and monitoring, emphasizing micropower operation (<4µA), wide supply flexibility, and robust input/output staging for harsh or energy-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for MAX972CSA+T?

The MAX972CSA+T supports a maximum total supply voltage of 11V in single-supply mode (V+ = 11V, V− = GND) or ±5.5V in dual-supply mode. Absolute maximum ratings specify V+ to V− ≤ 12V and output voltage up to 12V above V−, but operational specification guarantees performance only up to 11V. Exceeding 11V may degrade accuracy or reliability.

Does MAX972CSA+T include an internal voltage reference?

No, MAX972CSA+T does not include an internal voltage reference. Unlike MAX971/MAX982 variants, it has no REF pin and no bandgap reference circuitry. External reference or resistor-divider threshold generation is required for precise comparison tasks.

Can MAX972CSA+T operate from a 1.8V supply?

No, MAX972CSA+T is not specified for 1.8V operation. Its guaranteed minimum single-supply voltage is 2.5V. Below 2.5V, performance degrades - supply current drops, propagation delay increases, and input common-mode range shrinks. For 1.8V systems, consider TLV3701CDR or similar rail-to-rail comparators.

What is the purpose of the NC pins on MAX972CSA+T?

Pins 5 and 6 on MAX972CSA+T are No Connect (NC) terminals - internally unconnected and electrically inactive. They must be left floating or tied to GND per PCB layout guidelines to prevent parasitic coupling; no external components or traces should connect to them.

How does the open-drain output of MAX972CSA+T interface with a 3.3V microcontroller?

The MAX972CSA+T open-drain output sinks to GND and requires an external pullup resistor to 3.3V. When the comparator asserts low, OUT pulls to ~0.4V (at 1.8mA), registering as logic low to the MCU; when inactive, the pullup drives OUT to 3.3V, registering as logic high - enabling direct, voltage-level-compatible interrupt or status signaling.