Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX978EEE+T

Overview

MAX978EEE+T from Maxim Integrated is a quad, high-speed, low-power comparator optimized for single-supply +3V/+5V systems. It delivers 20ns propagation delay, 225µA supply current per comparator, rail-to-rail output operation, and ground-sensing inputs (–0.2V to VCC – 1.2V common-mode range). It is used in battery-powered threshold detection and IR receiver circuits where fast response and low quiescent power are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX978EEE+T datasheet, MAX978EEE+T pinout, MAX978EEE+T application, or MAX978EEE+T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package mapping to QSOP-16, confirmed pin functions, real-world use cases, and two validated alternative comparators with documented functional and application differences.

Technical Context

The MAX978EEE+T implements four independent high-speed comparators in a single monolithic CMOS IC, each featuring internal hysteresis (0.5–4.0mV input-referred) to suppress noise-induced oscillation during slow input transitions. Its push-pull output stage eliminates need for external pull-up resistors and supports direct interfacing with CMOS/TTL logic.

All inputs tolerate continuous short-circuit faults to either rail, and the common-mode range extends 200mV below ground-enabling accurate detection of signals near or slightly below GND. The device operates across full industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) with guaranteed performance at VCC = 2.7V to 5.5V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX978EEE+T is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (package code E16M+1), with 0.15mm lead thickness, 5.3mm body width, and 1.0mm height - compatible with standard surface-mount reflow profiles and automated assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed, low-power comparator applications.

Compared with LM339DR and TLV3501CDR, the MAX978EEE+T uniquely combines 20ns speed, ground-sensing inputs, rail-to-rail push-pull outputs, and built-in hysteresis - making it the only option among the three that supports robust, low-component-count IR reception and battery-threshold detection in compact 3V systems.

Availability

MAX978EEE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, IR receivers, digital line receivers, and 3V industrial sensor interfaces requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX978EEE+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) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX976/MAX978/MAX998 family was designed specifically for space-constrained, single-supply systems demanding high speed, low power, and robust input/output behavior - targeting portable instrumentation, optical receivers, and smart sensor nodes.

FAQ

What is the operating supply voltage range for MAX978EEE+T?

The MAX978EEE+T operates from a single supply of +2.7V to +5.5V. This range supports both 3V and 5V system rails without level-shifting. Operation below 2.7V is not specified and may result in degraded propagation delay, increased offset voltage, or failure to meet hysteresis guarantees. All electrical characteristics in the datasheet are validated across this full range at temperatures from –40°C to +85°C.

Does MAX978EEE+T include shutdown functionality like MAX998?

No, MAX978EEE+T does not include a shutdown pin or low-power shutdown mode. Unlike the single-channel MAX998EUT+T (which features SHDN pin and 1nA shutdown current), the MAX978EEE+T is a quad comparator without integrated shutdown control. Power reduction must be achieved externally via supply gating or system-level sleep modes. This distinction is clearly reflected in the pinout: MAX978EEE+T has no SHDN pin, while MAX998EUT+T dedicates pin 2 to shutdown control.

Can MAX978EEE+T inputs safely operate below ground?

Yes, MAX978EEE+T inputs are rated for a common-mode voltage range extending to –0.2V relative to GND. This ground-sensing capability allows direct interface with signals referenced slightly below system ground - such as photodiode current-to-voltage converters or current-sense amplifiers with negative output offsets. However, absolute minimum input voltage is –0.3V (per Absolute Maximum Ratings), so sustained operation below –0.2V risks violating specifications and may cause unpredictable output behavior.

What is the meaning of "rail-to-rail output" in MAX978EEE+T?

"Rail-to-rail output" means the MAX978EEE+T's push-pull output stage can drive its output voltage within 0.4V of both supply rails under 2mA load: VOH ≥ VCC – 0.4V and VOL ≤ 0.4V. This eliminates the need for external pull-up resistors and ensures full logic-level compatibility with 3.3V and 5V CMOS/TTL families. It also provides stronger drive capability than open-collector comparators, especially in high-capacitance or fast-switching applications like digital line receivers.

How does internal hysteresis improve performance in MAX978EEE+T?

The MAX978EEE+T incorporates 0.5–4.0mV of input-referred hysteresis to prevent output oscillation when input signals transition slowly or contain noise near the trip point. This eliminates the need for external positive-feedback resistor networks in most threshold-detection applications. For example, in an IR receiver, internal hysteresis ensures clean pulse edges even with low-SNR photodiode signals - directly improving bit-error rate without adding components or layout complexity.