Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX975ESA+T

Overview

The MAX975ESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a single high-speed comparator with auto-standby and low-power operating modes, optimized for +3V/+5V single-supply systems. It delivers 28ns propagation delay in high-speed mode, consumes only 250µA supply current in that mode and drops to 3µA in low-power mode, and features rail-to-rail outputs compatible with CMOS/TTL logic-enabling use in battery-powered IR receivers and threshold detection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX975ESA+T datasheet, MAX975ESA+T pinout, MAX975ESA+T application, or MAX975ESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its adjustable auto-standby timeout (set by external capacitor), ground-sensing input capability (–0.2V to V_CC–1.2V common-mode range), internal hysteresis in high-speed mode, and dual-speed operation without external pull-ups.

Technical Context

The MAX975ESA+T implements a dual-comparator architecture internally: one high-speed comparator (28ns t_PD) and one slower low-power comparator (480ns t_PD). Mode switching is controlled via the LP pin and STO pin, where auto-standby activates when OUT remains static for a timeout period set by an external capacitor (t_ASB = 10 × C_STO µs, C in pF).

Its input stage supports rail-to-rail differential voltage swing and ground-sensing operation, with guaranteed functionality across –0.2V to (V_CC – 1.2V) common-mode range. Output logic states remain stable during short-circuit faults to either rail, and internal hysteresis (0.3–4mV input-referred) prevents oscillation on slow-moving inputs in high-speed mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX975ESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package (package code S8-2), with exposed pad not electrically connected. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet revision 2 (2/07).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX975EUA-T, the MAX975ESA+T offers superior thermal performance and standard SO packaging compatibility; versus TLV3701CDR, it provides 10× faster propagation and intelligent power-state automation-critical for event-driven sensing in portable electronics.

Availability

The MAX975ESA+T 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+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 consumer systems.

The MAX975ESA+T belongs to Maxim's high-performance comparator product line, engineered specifically for adaptive-power, single-supply applications where dynamic speed/power trade-offs are essential-such as RFID, keyless entry, and portable IR systems.

FAQ

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

The MAX975ESA+T operates in high-speed mode (28ns t_PD, 250µA), low-power mode (480ns t_PD, 3µA), and auto-standby mode (adaptive transition between them). High-speed mode is active when LP is low and STO is grounded or floating; low-power mode is forced when LP is high; auto-standby activates automatically in high-speed mode when OUT remains static for a timeout period set by the STO capacitor. The STAT pin indicates current mode (high = low-power/auto-standby, low = high-speed).

How is the auto-standby timeout period calculated for the MAX975ESA+T?

The auto-standby timeout period t_ASB for the MAX975ESA+T is calculated using t_ASB = 10 × C_STO µs, where C_STO is the capacitance (in pF) connected between STO and GND. For example, a 100pF capacitor yields ~1ms timeout; a 0.1µF (100,000pF) capacitor yields ~1s. Leakage currents <1nA are required-ceramic capacitors are recommended. Board parasitics (~3pF) should be subtracted for sub-millisecond timing.

Does the MAX975ESA+T require external pull-up resistors on its output?

No, the MAX975ESA+T does not require external pull-up resistors. Its OUT pin provides rail-to-rail CMOS/TTL-compatible output drive capable of sourcing/sinking sufficient current (VOH ≥ 0.7×V_CC, VOL ≤ 0.4V at 2mA) to directly interface with standard logic families. This eliminates BOM components and simplifies layout in space- and cost-sensitive designs.

What is the input common-mode voltage range specification for the MAX975ESA+T?

The MAX975ESA+T has a specified input common-mode voltage range of –0.2V to (V_CC – 1.2V) across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to +85°C). This ground-sensing capability allows direct interfacing with sensors or transducers whose outputs reference system ground-even below GND-without level-shifting circuitry, while maintaining guaranteed comparator functionality.

Can the MAX975ESA+T operate from a 3V supply, and what performance is guaranteed at that voltage?

Yes, the MAX975ESA+T is fully specified for operation from +2.7V to +5.25V, including 3V nominal supplies. At V_CC = 3V, it guarantees 28ns propagation delay (high-speed mode), 3µA max supply current (low-power mode), rail-to-rail output swing, and –0.2V to 1.8V input common-mode range. Typical high-speed supply current is 250µA, and input offset voltage remains within ±5mV over temperature.