Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX977EEE

Overview

The MAX977EEE from Maxim Integrated is a dual high-speed comparator with auto-standby and low-power modes, optimized for +3V/+5V single-supply operation. It delivers 28ns propagation delay in high-speed mode, consumes only 250µA supply current per comparator, and supports rail-to-rail outputs compatible with CMOS/TTL logic. Its independently adjustable timeout periods (via external capacitors on STOA/STOB) make it ideal for battery-powered IR receivers and RF ID tag threshold detection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX977EEE datasheet, MAX977EEE pinout, MAX977EEE application, or MAX977EEE equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-channel independent auto-standby timing control, ±1mV input offset voltage over temperature, rail-to-rail output drive without pull-ups, and guaranteed 3µA max supply current per comparator in low-power mode.

Technical Context

The MAX977EEE implements two parallel comparator paths: a high-speed path (28ns tPD, 250µA ICC) and a low-power path (480ns tPD, 3µA ICC), with automatic mode switching triggered by output stability. Its auto-standby logic monitors OUTA/OUTB state transitions via dedicated transition detectors and uses separate STOA/STOB pins to set independent timeout periods (tASB = 10 × CSTO µs).

Each comparator features ground-sensing inputs with –0.2V to (VCC – 1.2V) common-mode range, internal hysteresis (±0.3mV typ) in high-speed mode, and fault-tolerant I/O capable of continuous rail-to-rail short-circuit operation. The STAT A/B pins provide real-time mode status and can source up to 3mA to power auxiliary circuitry during standby or low-power states.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX977EEE is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (E16-1), with 0.65mm lead pitch and exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin 1 is VCC; pins 4 and 5 are internally connected to VCC; pins 11 and 13 are GND; pin 16 is N.C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM393DR and TLV3702IDR, the MAX977EEE uniquely integrates dual-channel autonomous power-state control with hardware-configurable timeout, eliminating software overhead while delivering 28ns speed and 3µA standby - essential for energy-constrained wireless sensor nodes.

Availability

The MAX977EEE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, RF ID tags, and keyless entry applications requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for MAX977EEE 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 harsh environments.

The MAX975/MAX977 family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, high-speed signal conditioning in intermittent-event detection systems - balancing nanosecond response with microamp quiescent current.

FAQ

What are the absolute maximum ratings for the MAX977EEE?

The MAX977EEE has an absolute maximum supply voltage of +6V, input pin voltage range of –0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V), and continuous output short-circuit tolerance to either rail. Its 16-pin QSOP package supports continuous power dissipation up to 667mW at +70°C, derating 8.33mW/°C above that temperature. These limits ensure robust operation in transient-prone automotive and industrial environments where the MAX977EEE is commonly deployed.

How does the auto-standby timeout period work on the MAX977EEE?

The MAX977EEE uses external capacitors on STOA and STOB pins to set independent timeout periods for each comparator: tASB = 10 × CSTO µs, where CSTO is in pF. For example, a 100pF capacitor yields a 1µs timeout. The timing circuit monitors output stability; if OUTA/OUTB remains unchanged for tASB, the device enters auto-standby, disabling the high-speed path and enabling the 3µA low-power comparator. This behavior is fully documented in the MAX977EEE datasheet Figure 2 timing diagram.

Can the MAX977EEE operate from a 2.7V supply?

Yes, the MAX977EEE is fully specified for operation from +2.7V to +5.25V single supply. At 2.7V, it maintains 28ns propagation delay in high-speed mode, ±1mV input offset voltage over temperature, and rail-to-rail output swing from 0.1V to VCC – 0.4V. Its –0.2V to (VCC – 1.2V) common-mode input range allows direct interfacing with 2.7V sensor outputs, making the MAX977EEE suitable for modern low-voltage IoT endpoints.

What is the function of the STAT pins on the MAX977EEE?

The STATA and STATB pins on the MAX977EEE indicate real-time operating mode: high during auto-standby or low-power mode, low in high-speed mode. Critically, each STAT pin can source up to 3mA, enabling direct power delivery to auxiliary circuitry like LED drivers or wake-up logic. This eliminates external biasing components and allows the MAX977EEE to autonomously manage system-level power states - a capability not found in standard comparators like the LM393DR or TLV3702IDR.

Does the MAX977EEE require external hysteresis resistors?

No, the MAX977EEE includes internal hysteresis (±0.3mV typical) specifically in high-speed mode, eliminating the need for external feedback resistors. This built-in hysteresis ensures clean output transitions even with slow-moving or noisy inputs - such as those from IR photodiodes or analog line receivers. External hysteresis is unnecessary unless custom thresholds beyond the internal zone are required, in which case the MAX977EEE's ground-sensing inputs support simple resistor-divider configurations without compromising the core auto-standby functionality.