Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX972CUA

Overview

The MAX972CUA 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 µMAX 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 (V− to V+ − 1.3V), and features 12µs propagation delay at 10mV overdrive - ideal for battery-powered threshold detection in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX972CUA datasheet, MAX972CUA pinout, MAX972CUA application, or MAX972CUA equivalent, key selection considerations include its reference-free architecture, absence of HYST/REF pins, 8-pin µMAX footprint, open-drain output sinking to V−, and compatibility with single- or dual-supply level translation circuits requiring minimal quiescent current.

Technical Context

The MAX972CUA implements a micropower comparator core without integrated bandgap reference or hysteresis control circuitry - distinguishing it from MAX971/MAX981 (with REF/HYST) and MAX973/MAX983 (dual with REF/HYST). Its input stage accepts voltages from V− to (V+ − 1.3V), enabling direct sensing near supply rails, and its open-drain output connects internally to V− (not GND), supporting bipolar-to-single-ended conversion when V− ≠ GND.

Unlike MAX971/MAX981/MAX974/MAX984, the MAX972CUA lacks a dedicated REF pin and HYST pin; hysteresis must be implemented externally via positive feedback. Its output sink capability is specified down to V− + 0.4V at 1.8mA load, and propagation delay increases at low supply voltages (<3V), with typical 12µs at 5V/10mV overdrive.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-pin µMAX (3mm × 3mm, 0.5mm pitch), exposed pad for thermal enhancement, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX972CUA, MAX971CUA adds reference and hysteresis convenience at slight I_Q cost, while TLV3701IDBVR offers smaller size and lower power but sacrifices supply voltage range and V−-sink flexibility - making MAX972CUA optimal for wide-supply, bipolar-aware, reference-free designs.

Availability

The MAX972CUA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, level translators, and window comparators requiring stable component supply across commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX972CUA 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, wide supply flexibility, and robust input/output staging for harsh or energy-constrained environments.

FAQ

What is the function of Pin 5 and Pin 6 on the MAX972CUA?

Pin 5 and Pin 6 on the MAX972CUA are no-connect (NC) terminals - they are not bonded to the die and serve no electrical function. Per Maxim's datasheet, these pins must be left unconnected or tied to V− for mechanical stability; routing traces or vias to them may cause parasitic coupling or solder voids in the µMAX package.

Does the MAX972CUA have an internal voltage reference?

No, the MAX972CUA does not include an internal voltage reference. Unlike MAX971CUA or MAX981CUA, it omits the REF pin and associated bandgap circuitry. External reference ICs or resistor-divider thresholds must be used for precise comparison - confirmed by the "None" entry under "INTERNAL PRECISION REFERENCE" in the Ordering Information table for MAX972.

Can the MAX972CUA operate from a single 3V supply?

Yes, the MAX972CUA is fully specified for single-supply operation from 2.5V to 11V, including 3V. At 3V, typical supply current is ≤3.0µA (C-temp range), input common-mode range extends from V− (0V) to 1.7V, and propagation delay remains usable at 12µs - making it suitable for coin-cell or 3.3V LDO-powered applications.

What is the maximum output sink current for the MAX972CUA?

The MAX972CUA output can sink up to 50mA continuously (Absolute Maximum Rating), with a typical output low voltage of V− + 0.4V at 1.8mA load. This sink-to-V− architecture enables direct driving of LEDs or MOSFET gates referenced to V−, but sustained >5mA loads require thermal consideration due to 330mW max dissipation in the µMAX package.

How is hysteresis implemented on the MAX972CUA?

Hysteresis on the MAX972CUA must be implemented externally using positive feedback, as it lacks HYST and REF pins. A resistor network from OUTA to INA+ creates regenerative feedback - increasing the upper trip point and decreasing the lower trip point. The hysteresis width depends on feedback ratio and output swing, unlike the precise 100mV max band achievable with HYST-pin devices like MAX971CUA.