Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX978ESE+
- Part No.:
- MAX978ESE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Comparators
- Package:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX978ESE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC COMPARATOR 4 GEN PUR 16SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,844
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Product details
Overview
MAX978ESE+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad, high-speed, low-power comparator optimized for single-supply +3V/+5V operation in space-constrained systems. It delivers 20ns propagation delay, 225µA supply current per comparator, rail-to-rail output swing, and ground-sensing inputs (–0.2V to VCC–1.2V), enabling direct interface with CMOS/TTL logic in battery-powered threshold detection and IR receiver circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MAX978ESE+ datasheet, MAX978ESE+ pinout, MAX978ESE+ application, or MAX978ESE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 20ns propagation delay at 2.7V–5.5V supply, internal hysteresis for noise immunity, shutdown capability (via external control on MAX998 only), and QSOP-16 package compatibility for high-density PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The MAX978ESE+ implements four independent comparators in a single monolithic CMOS die, each featuring push-pull rail-to-rail outputs that eliminate need for external pull-up resistors. Its input stage supports common-mode voltages down to –0.2V, allowing direct sensing of signals referenced below ground-critical for battery voltage monitoring and analog signal discrimination.
Each comparator includes built-in 0.5mV to 4.0mV input-referred hysteresis (typ. 1.5mV), ensuring stable switching against slow-moving or noisy inputs without external feedback components. The device operates across –40°C to +85°C and is fully specified for 2.7V–5.5V supply range, with PSRR of 63dB (min) and CMRR of 66dB (min) ensuring robust performance under supply and common-mode variation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Propagation Delay | 20ns typical at 50mV overdrive - enables timing-critical edge detection in digital line receivers and fast threshold triggering. |
| Supply Current per Comparator | 225µA typical at +5.5V - supports ultra-low-power operation in always-on sensor monitoring and portable equipment. |
| Input Common-Mode Range | –0.2V to (VCC – 1.2V) - allows ground-referenced input signals and direct connection to battery terminals without level-shifting. |
| Output Type | Rail-to-rail push-pull - drives CMOS/TTL loads directly without pull-up resistors, reducing BOM count and board area. |
| Input Offset Voltage | ±2mV max at +25°C - ensures accurate trip-point stability for precision voltage window detection and reference comparison. |
| Hysteresis (Input-Referred) | 0.5mV to 4.0mV - suppresses chatter on slow or noisy inputs; eliminates need for external positive-feedback network in most applications. |
| Power-Supply Rejection Ratio | 63dB min - maintains consistent switching thresholds despite supply ripple, critical in shared-rail mixed-signal systems. |
Pinout & Package
MAX978ESE+ is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package, RoHS-compliant, with 1.27mm lead pitch and standard JEDEC MS-013AC outline. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot; thermal pad is not present.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 3, 5, 7 | IN+ (Noninverting Input) | Positive input terminal for comparators A–D; accepts common-mode voltage down to –0.2V. |
| 2, 4, 6, 8 | IN– (Inverting Input) | Negative input terminal for comparators A–D; same common-mode range as IN+. |
| 9, 13 | GND | Analog ground reference for all comparators; must connect to low-impedance system ground plane. |
| 10, 11, 14, 15 | OUT (Output) | Push-pull rail-to-rail output for comparators A–D; sinks/sours ≥2mA; no external pull-up required. |
| 12, 16 | VCC | Single supply input (2.7V–5.5V); requires local 0.1µF ceramic decoupling capacitor per VCC pin. |
| 1, 5 | N.C. | No internal connection; left unconnected per datasheet; no routing or termination required. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single-supply operation | 2.7V–5.5V range enables direct use with Li-ion, 3.3V, and 5V rails-no dual supplies or charge pumps needed. |
| 20ns propagation delay | Guaranteed speed supports >25MHz digital line reception and real-time fault detection in motor control feedback loops. |
| Rail-to-rail push-pull outputs | Eliminates external pull-up resistors and associated power loss, simplifying layout and improving rise/fall time consistency. |
| Ground-sensing inputs | –0.2V lower common-mode limit allows direct monitoring of battery voltage, sensor outputs, or current-sense shunts referenced to system ground. |
| Internal hysteresis | 1.5mV typical input-referred hysteresis prevents oscillation on slow edges or noisy signals-no external components required. |
Applications
| Battery Voltage Monitoring | IR Receiver Front-End |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Detecting low-battery condition (<3.0V) and overvoltage (>4.3V) in handheld medical devices using a resistor divider network. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Quad comparator configured as dual-threshold window detector (undervoltage/overvoltage), with two channels driving status LEDs and two reserved for future expansion. Use Value: Enables precise, low-power battery health assessment without microcontroller intervention-reducing active duty cycle and extending runtime. |
Use Scenario: Converting modulated infrared photodiode current into clean digital pulses for remote-control signal decoding in consumer electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single comparator channel (e.g., OUTA) compares photodiode voltage against adjustable reference; remaining channels unused or configured for ambient light rejection. Use Value: 20ns response time captures high-frequency IR carrier bursts (e.g., 38kHz) with minimal jitter, ensuring reliable command recognition. |
| Digital Line Receiver | Threshold Discriminator in Sensor Interface |
Use Scenario: Recovering degraded RS-232 or proprietary serial data lines in industrial PLC backplanes where signal integrity is compromised by long traces and EMI. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Comparator acts as high-speed line receiver with hysteresis to reject noise-induced false transitions; output directly drives FPGA I/O bank. Use Value: 225µA per channel allows integration of multiple receivers on same 3.3V rail without excessive thermal load or regulator derating. |
Use Scenario: Converting analog output from a temperature sensor (e.g., TMP36) into binary alert signals for fan control and thermal shutdown in embedded computing modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: One comparator channel compares sensor voltage to fixed 1.25V reference; second channel compares to 1.8V for dual-zone thermal management. Use Value: Ground-sensing inputs accept sensor's ground-referenced output directly-no level-shifter IC or op-amp buffer required. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed, low-power comparator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM339DR | Slower (1.3µs propagation delay), higher supply current (500µA/comparator), open-collector outputs requiring pull-ups. | Suitable for non-critical, cost-sensitive industrial controls where speed and power are secondary. | Select LM339DR only when 20ns timing is unnecessary and board space allows pull-up resistors. |
| TLV3501CDR | Faster (4.5ns), higher supply current (5.3mA/comparator), rail-to-rail inputs (not ground-sensing), no internal hysteresis. | Better for high-frequency analog-to-digital conversion sampling clocks but requires external hysteresis for noisy environments. | Choose TLV3501CDR only when sub-10ns response is mandatory and system-level noise filtering is already implemented. |
Compared with LM339DR and TLV3501CDR, the MAX978ESE+ uniquely balances nanosecond-speed response, micropower consumption, rail-to-rail drive, and ground-sensing capability-making it optimal for compact, battery-aware systems needing reliable, self-contained threshold detection without external support components.
Availability
MAX978ESE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, IR receivers, digital line receivers, and 3V threshold discriminators requiring stable component supply across industrial and consumer production cycles.
Supply support for MAX978ESE+ 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.
The MAX976/MAX978/MAX998 family was engineered specifically for single-supply, high-speed comparator applications in portable and space-constrained systems-emphasizing low power, fast response, and robust input/output interface capability.
FAQ
What is the operating supply voltage range for MAX978ESE+?
The MAX978ESE+ operates from a single supply of +2.7V to +5.5V. This range supports direct interfacing with common battery chemistries (Li-ion, alkaline) and standard logic rails (3.3V, 5V). Operation outside this range may cause permanent damage, as absolute maximum supply voltage is +6V.
Does MAX978ESE+ include internal hysteresis, and what is its typical value?
Yes, the MAX978ESE+ features internal input-referred hysteresis, typically 1.5mV, with a guaranteed range of 0.5mV to 4.0mV. This hysteresis prevents output oscillation during slow or noisy input transitions, eliminating the need for external positive-feedback networks in most threshold-detection applications.
Can MAX978ESE+ inputs sense below ground, and how far?
Yes, the MAX978ESE+ inputs support a common-mode voltage range extending 200mV below ground (–0.2V minimum), while the upper limit is VCC – 1.2V. This ground-sensing capability enables direct connection to battery terminals, current-sense amplifiers, or sensors with ground-referenced outputs-without level-shifting circuitry.
What is the propagation delay specification for MAX978ESE+, and under what conditions is it measured?
The MAX978ESE+ has a typical propagation delay of 20ns, measured at VCC = +5.5V, with 50mV input overdrive and CLOAD = 10pF. This delay is guaranteed by design across the full temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and supply range (2.7V–5.5V), making it suitable for high-speed digital line reception and real-time fault detection.
Is MAX978ESE+ pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX976/MAX978/MAX998 family?
No-MAX978ESE+ is a quad comparator in 16-pin narrow SO package, while MAX976EUA+ is dual in 8-pin µMAX and MAX998EUT+T is single in 6-pin SOT23. Pinouts differ significantly across the family; each variant has unique pin assignments and package footprints. Interchangeability requires redesign of PCB layout and schematic connections.
MAX978ESE+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package/Case:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- General Purpose
- Number of Elements:
- 4
- Output Type:
- Push-Pull, Rail-to-Rail
- Voltage - Supply, Single/Dual (±):
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- :
- 2mV @ 5V
- Voltage - Input Offset (Max):
- 0.075µA @ 5.5V
- Current - Input Bias (Max):
- -
- Current - Output (Typ):
- 650µA
- Current - Quiescent (Max):
- 95dB CMRR, 100dB PSRR
- CMRR, PSRR (Typ):
- 28ns
- Propagation Delay (Max):
- 4mV
- Hysteresis:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- Surface Mount
- :
- 16-SOIC
MAX978ESE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX978ESE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX978ESE+ 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 MAX978ESE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX978ESE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX978ESE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX978ESE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX978ESE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX978ESE+?
MAX978ESE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX978ESE+ 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 MAX978ESE+?
For technical support, including MAX978ESE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX978ESE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX978ESE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX978ESE+ 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 MAX978ESE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX978ESE+?
All MAX978ESE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX978ESE+, 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 MAX978ESE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX978ESE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX978ESE+ Tags

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LM2903DR
Texas Instruments
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LM339DR
Texas Instruments

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LM339PWR
Texas Instruments

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LM393DT
STMicroelectronics

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LM2901PWR
Texas Instruments

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LM2903DT
STMicroelectronics

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LM393DR
Texas Instruments
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LM239DR
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LM339APWR
Texas Instruments

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LM2903P
Texas Instruments

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LM393ADR
Texas Instruments

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NCX2200GMAZ
NXP USA Inc.
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