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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX974EPE
- Part No.:
- MAX974EPE
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Comparators
- Package:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX974EPE.pdf
- Description:
- IC COMPARATOR 4 W/VOLT REF 16DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,131
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Product details
Overview
The MAX974EPE from Maxim Integrated is a quad ultra-low-power open-drain comparator with integrated 1.182V ±1% precision bandgap reference, 4µA max supply current over temperature, and dual-supply operation (±1.25V to ±5.5V). It features separate GND pin for output transistors, rail-to-rail input range (V− to V+ − 1.3V), and 12µs propagation delay at 10mV overdrive - ideal for battery-powered threshold detection and level translation in industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the MAX974EPE datasheet, MAX974EPE pinout, MAX974EPE application, or MAX974EPE equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated pin functions, real-world use cases including window detection and bipolar-to-single-ended conversion, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.
Technical Context
The MAX974EPE implements four independent comparators sharing a single internal 1.182V ±1% reference and no programmable hysteresis (unlike MAX973/MAX983). Its open-drain outputs sink to GND (not V−), enabled by dedicated GND and V− pins - allowing true bipolar-to-single-ended conversion when V− is tied to negative rail and GND to system ground.
Input common-mode range extends from V− to V+ − 1.3V; output voltage swing reaches up to 11V above V−, supporting level-shifting across incompatible logic domains. Propagation delay is specified at 12µs (high-to-low) with 10mV overdrive and 100pF load, and supply current remains ≤8.5µA over −40°C to +85°C at 5V operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | Single: 2.5V to 11V; Dual: ±1.25V to ±5.5V - supports direct interface with ±5V analog sensors and 3.3V/5V digital logic. |
| Quiescent Supply Current | ≤8.5µA at TA = −40°C to +85°C, V+ = 5V - enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in always-on monitoring systems. |
| Reference Voltage Accuracy | 1.182V ±1% over −40°C to +85°C - provides stable threshold for precision undervoltage/overvoltage detection without external trimming. |
| Input Common-Mode Range | V− to V+ − 1.3V - allows sensing signals referenced to negative rails (e.g., op-amp outputs in dual-supply signal chains). |
| Propagation Delay | 12µs (high-to-low), 10mV overdrive, 100pF load - sufficient for slow-control loops (e.g., power-good sequencing, battery switchover) while minimizing dynamic power. |
| Output Sink Capability | 50mA per output, VOL ≤ GND + 0.4V at IOUT = 1.8mA - drives standard LED indicators or MOSFET gates without external buffers. |
| Reference Output Drive | Sinks 4µA / Sources 6µA - sufficient to bias resistor dividers for multiple comparator thresholds without loading error. |
Pinout & Package
MAX974EPE is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide) with through-hole mounting and industry-standard pin spacing. Pin 1 is top-left corner when notch faces up; pin numbering proceeds counterclockwise.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OUTA | Open-drain output of Comparator A; sinks current to GND - used for active-low power-good or fault indication. |
| 2 | OUTB | Open-drain output of Comparator B; sinks current to GND - pairs with OUTA in window detector configurations. |
| 3 | OUTC | Open-drain output of Comparator C; sinks current to GND - enables independent monitoring of third voltage domain. |
| 4 | OUTD | Open-drain output of Comparator D; sinks current to GND - supports four-channel status reporting (e.g., multi-rail power supervision). |
| 5 | INA+ | Noninverting input of Comparator A - connects to monitored signal (e.g., battery voltage via resistor divider). |
| 6 | INA− | Inverting input of Comparator A - ties to reference or threshold voltage for level comparison. |
| 7 | INB+ | Noninverting input of Comparator B - used for second independent threshold (e.g., overvoltage limit). |
| 8 | INB− | Inverting input of Comparator B - references same REF as INA− or separate threshold network. |
| 9 | V− | Negative supply pin - connect to system ground in single-supply mode; to negative rail in dual-supply mode. |
| 10 | REF | 1.182V reference output (±1%) - supplies precise threshold for all four comparators; not bypassed. |
| 11 | INC+ | Noninverting input of Comparator C - supports third independent monitoring channel. |
| 12 | INC− | Inverting input of Comparator C - accepts reference or derived threshold voltage. |
| 13 | IND+ | Noninverting input of Comparator D - enables fourth independent voltage check. |
| 14 | IND− | Inverting input of Comparator D - completes quad-channel supervision capability. |
| 15 | GND | Dedicated output-stage ground - ties to system ground regardless of V− potential; enables level-shifting when V− ≠ GND. |
| 16 | V+ | Positive supply pin - accepts 2.5V–11V single supply or positive rail of dual supply. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Quad comparator + integrated reference | Reduces BOM count and PCB area vs. discrete reference + four comparators; eliminates matching drift between channels. |
| Separate GND and V− pins | Enables true bipolar-to-single-ended conversion: V− connected to −5V rail, GND to 0V, outputs swing 0V–11V relative to GND. |
| Ultra-low 8.5µA supply current | Extends battery life in portable gas detectors or remote environmental sensors operating continuously at −40°C to +85°C. |
| Rail-to-rail input range (V− to V+ − 1.3V) | Accepts inputs down to negative supply - critical for interfacing with op-amps or transducers in dual-supply signal chains. |
| 11V output voltage range | Drives 5V TTL, 3.3V CMOS, or 12V relay coils directly without level-shifter ICs or discrete transistor stages. |
Applications
| Battery Voltage Supervision | Power-Rail Window Detection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Monitoring 3.7V Li-ion battery voltage during charge/discharge cycles in handheld medical devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX974EPE compares battery voltage against upper (4.2V) and lower (3.0V) thresholds using resistor dividers off REF; outputs drive LEDs or microcontroller GPIOs. Use Value: Enables accurate end-of-charge and low-battery shutdown with <±1% reference accuracy and no external components beyond resistors. | Use Scenario: Validating that 5V, 3.3V, and 1.8V power rails remain within ±5% tolerance in industrial PLC modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Each comparator monitors one rail via scaled-down version of REF; wired-OR outputs generate unified "power-fault" signal. Use Value: Single IC replaces three discrete supervisors, reducing cost and layout complexity while ensuring synchronized fault response. |
| Bipolar Signal Level Translation | Oscillator Threshold Control |
Use Scenario: Converting ±5V encoder signals to 3.3V logic levels for ARM Cortex-M4 microcontrollers in motor control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MAX974EPE configured as comparator with V− = −5V, GND = 0V, V+ = 5V; REF sets zero-crossing point at 0V. Use Value: Eliminates need for dual-supply op-amps or discrete level-shifters; output swings cleanly between 0V and 3.3V-compatible high state. | Use Scenario: Setting precise hysteresis thresholds for relaxation oscillators in low-power sensor wake-up timers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: One comparator uses REF as fixed threshold; capacitor charging/discharging across resistor defines oscillator period. Use Value: Achieves stable 1Hz–10kHz oscillation frequencies with <1% timing drift over temperature, using only passive components. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad comparator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX984EPE | Same pinout and package; internal reference accuracy ±2% (vs. ±1%); higher supply current (≤10µA) over temperature. | Acceptable where ±2% threshold tolerance is sufficient (e.g., non-critical power sequencing), but not for precision battery cutoff. | Select MAX984EPE only if cost sensitivity outweighs need for 1% reference stability across full industrial temperature range. |
| TLV3704IPW | Quad comparator with rail-to-rail inputs/outputs; no integrated reference; supply current 1.6µA; operates down to 1.8V. | Requires external reference (e.g., REF3012) for threshold generation; better suited for ultra-low-voltage (1.8V–5.5V) systems than dual-supply level translation. | Choose TLV3704IPW when operating below 2.5V or when independent reference selection (e.g., adjustable threshold) is required. |
Compared with MAX984EPE, the MAX974EPE offers tighter reference accuracy (±1% vs. ±2%) critical for precision voltage monitoring, while TLV3704IPW trades integrated reference for lower quiescent current and wider supply range - making it suitable for sub-2.5V designs but requiring additional components for threshold generation.
Availability
MAX974EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, industrial power supervision, sensor interface circuits, and level translation applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.
Supply support for MAX974EPE 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 industrial, automotive, and communications markets, emphasizing low power, high reliability, and integration.
The MAX97x/MAX98x comparator family targets ultra-low-power sensing and monitoring applications, delivering micropower operation, integrated references, and flexible supply configurations for battery-constrained and harsh-environment systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum output voltage swing supported by the MAX974EPE?
The MAX974EPE supports an output voltage range up to 11V above V−, independent of V+ or GND. When V− is tied to −5V and GND to 0V, outputs can swing from 0V to +6V - enabling direct interface with 5V logic families even under dual-supply conditions. This specification is guaranteed across −40°C to +85°C and does not require pull-up resistors to achieve full range.
Does the MAX974EPE include hysteresis, and how is it implemented?
The MAX974EPE does not include internal hysteresis - unlike MAX973/MAX983 which feature HYST pins. Hysteresis must be added externally using positive feedback (e.g., resistor from OUT to IN+). The MAX974EPE datasheet provides Figure 4 showing RH and RPULLUP configuration for this purpose. No HYST pin is present on MAX974EPE, and its pinout omits that terminal entirely.
Can the MAX974EPE operate from a single 3.3V supply, and what are the input voltage limits?
Yes, the MAX974EPE operates from a single 3.3V supply (within 2.5V–11V range). Input common-mode voltage spans from V− (GND in single-supply mode) to V+ − 1.3V = 2.0V. Thus, inputs may range from 0V to 2.0V - sufficient for monitoring 3.3V rail thresholds (e.g., 2.97V undervoltage) using resistor dividers off the internal 1.182V reference.
How is the internal reference (REF) intended to be used in the MAX974EPE?
The REF pin delivers a buffered 1.182V ±1% output referenced to V−, designed to serve as a stable threshold for all four comparators. It sources up to 6µA and sinks up to 4µA - adequate for driving resistor-divider networks. The datasheet explicitly states "Do not bypass the REF output," as external capacitance degrades stability and increases noise. REF connects directly to IN− pins or divider nodes without filtering.
What is the purpose of the separate GND and V− pins on the MAX974EPE?
The separate GND and V− pins enable true level-shifting functionality: V− connects to the negative supply rail (e.g., −5V), while GND ties to system ground (0V). This allows the open-drain outputs to sink current to 0V regardless of V− potential - producing output logic levels compatible with single-supply digital ICs even when input signals swing bipolar. This architecture is unique to MAX971/MAX974/MAX981/MAX984 variants.
MAX974EPE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package/Case:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- with Voltage Reference
- Number of Elements:
- 4
- Output Type:
- Open-Drain
- Voltage - Supply, Single/Dual (±):
- 2.5V ~ 11V, ±1.25V ~ 5.5V
- :
- 10mV @ 5V
- Voltage - Input Offset (Max):
- -
- Current - Input Bias (Max):
- -
- Current - Output (Typ):
- 8.5µA
- Current - Quiescent (Max):
- 80dB CMRR, 80dB PSRR
- CMRR, PSRR (Typ):
- -
- Propagation Delay (Max):
- -
- Hysteresis:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- Through Hole
- :
- 16-PDIP
MAX974EPE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX974EPE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX974EPE 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 MAX974EPE reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX974EPE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX974EPE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX974EPE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX974EPE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX974EPE?
MAX974EPE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX974EPE 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 MAX974EPE?
For technical support, including MAX974EPE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX974EPE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX974EPE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX974EPE 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 MAX974EPE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX974EPE?
All MAX974EPE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX974EPE, 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 MAX974EPE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX974EPE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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