Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX975ESA

Overview

MAX975ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single high-speed/low-power comparator with auto-standby mode, optimized for +3V/+5V single-supply battery-powered systems. It delivers 28ns propagation delay in high-speed mode, 3µA supply current in low-power mode, and rail-to-rail output swing without external pull-ups-enabling direct CMOS/TTL interfacing in IR receivers and threshold detectors.

For engineers reviewing the MAX975ESA datasheet, MAX975ESA pinout, MAX975ESA application, or MAX975ESA equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated operating modes (high-speed/auto-standby/low-power), confirmed timing behavior (28ns/480ns), exact package mapping (8-pin SO), and real-world use cases including loss-of-signal detection in IR receivers and battery voltage monitoring.

Technical Context

The MAX975ESA integrates two parallel comparators-one high-speed (28ns, 250µA) and one low-power (480ns, 3µA)-with transition monitoring logic that enables automatic mode switching. Its auto-standby timeout is set by an external capacitor on STO (t_ASB = 10 × C_STO µs, C in pF), and STAT pin indicates mode status while sourcing up to 3mA.

Input common-mode range spans –0.2V to (V_CC – 1.2V), differential input supports rail-to-rail operation, and internal hysteresis (±0.3–4mV) ensures clean switching with slow inputs. All pins tolerate continuous short-circuit faults to either rail.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX975ESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package (package code S8-2), with 1.27mm lead pitch and standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint. Thermal performance: 471mW max power dissipation at +70°C ambient.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LMV7215M5X and TLV3691DBVR, MAX975ESA uniquely combines sub-30ns speed, µA-level low-power operation, and hardware-managed auto-standby-making it the only option that delivers both responsive detection and adaptive energy savings in signal-intermittent applications.

Availability

MAX975ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, IR receivers, and threshold detectors requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (–40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX975ESA 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, automotive, and consumer markets.

The MAX975ESA belongs to Maxim's high-performance comparator product line, engineered specifically for energy-constrained systems needing rapid signal response coupled with intelligent power gating.

FAQ

What are the three operating modes of the MAX975ESA and how are they selected?

The MAX975ESA supports high-speed mode (28ns, 250µA), low-power mode (480ns, 3µA), and auto-standby mode (adaptive). Mode selection is controlled by the LP pin (high = low-power, low = high-speed/auto-standby) and STO pin (capacitor-connected = auto-standby enabled, grounded = disabled). The MAX975ESA enters auto-standby after an adjustable timeout when OUT remains static, then wakes instantly on output transition.

How does the STAT pin function in the MAX975ESA and what design value does it provide?

The STAT pin on the MAX975ESA outputs high during auto-standby or low-power mode and goes low only in active high-speed mode. It can source up to 3mA, enabling direct powering of LEDs, pull-up resistors, or microcontroller wake-up circuits. This eliminates external biasing components and allows system-level power gating synchronized to signal activity - a key advantage in the MAX975ESA over conventional comparators.

What is the purpose of the STO pin on the MAX975ESA and how is its timeout period calculated?

The STO pin on the MAX975ESA sets the auto-standby timeout period using an external capacitor: t_ASB = 10 × C_STO µs, where C_STO is in pF. For example, a 100pF capacitor yields a 1µs timeout, while a 0.1µF capacitor gives 1s. Leakage must be <1nA; ceramic capacitors are recommended. Driving STO low disables auto-standby. This precise, passive timing method is unique to the MAX975ESA family.

Can the MAX975ESA interface directly with CMOS and TTL logic without external components?

Yes, the MAX975ESA features true rail-to-rail output: VOH ≥ 0.7×V_CC and VOL ≤ 0.4V across its full supply range (+2.7V to +5.25V). This meets CMOS and TTL input thresholds without pull-up resistors or level shifters. The MAX975ESA maintains this output drive capability in all three operating modes - a critical feature for consistent logic interfacing in dynamically powered systems.

What is the input common-mode voltage range of the MAX975ESA and why is ground-sensing capability important?

The MAX975ESA accepts input voltages from –0.2V to (V_CC – 1.2V), enabling true ground-sensing operation. This allows direct comparison of signals referenced to system ground - such as battery voltage dividers or photodiode outputs - without level-shifting circuitry. Ground-sensing simplifies design, reduces component count, and preserves accuracy in low-voltage battery-monitoring applications using the MAX975ESA.