Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX984EPE

Overview

MAX984EPE from Maxim Integrated is a quad ultra-low-power open-drain comparator with internal 1.182V ±2% voltage reference, 4µA max supply current over temperature, and dual-supply operation (±1.25V to ±5.5V). It features separate GND pin for output transistors, enabling bipolar-to-single-ended conversion and level translation in battery-powered threshold detection systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX984EPE datasheet, MAX984EPE pinout, MAX984EPE application, or MAX984EPE equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, package mapping, functional pin roles, real-world use cases, and two confirmed alternative parts - all grounded in Maxim's official documentation for the MAX984EPE variant.

Technical Context

The MAX984EPE integrates four independent comparators with open-drain outputs sinking to GND, each supporting input common-mode range from V− to (V+ − 1.3V). Its internal bandgap reference is referenced to V−, not GND, and provides 1.182V ±2% accuracy over −40°C to +85°C.

No internal hysteresis is included (per Ordering Information table), distinguishing it from MAX981–MAX983 variants. The 16-pin DIP package supports wire-ORed configurations and level-shifting applications where output voltage swing up to 11V above V− is required without active V+ supply.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX984EPE is supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), pin-compatible with MAX974CPE/EPE and MAX984CPE/ESE variants. Pin numbering follows standard DIP convention with notch-left orientation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX974EPE, MAX984EPE trades ±1% reference accuracy for lower cost and broader commercial acceptance, while LM339N offers ruggedness at the expense of micropower operation - making MAX984EPE the optimal balance for portable, long-life, reference-integrated quad comparison.

Availability

MAX984EPE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, threshold detectors, window comparators, and level translators requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX984EPE 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.

The MAX971–MAX984 family targets ultra-low-power sensing and monitoring, with MAX984EPE specifically engineered for quad-channel, reference-integrated voltage comparison in space- and energy-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of the MAX984EPE over its full operating temperature range?

The MAX984EPE features an internal 1.182V bandgap reference with ±2% accuracy over the extended temperature range of −40°C to +85°C, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table for MAX981–MAX984 under "Reference Voltage" with E temp range. This tolerance applies directly to the MAX984EPE variant and is referenced to V−, not GND.

Does the MAX984EPE include internal hysteresis, and how is hysteresis implemented if needed?

No, the MAX984EPE does not include internal hysteresis - the Ordering Information table explicitly lists "No" for internal hysteresis in the MAX984 row. Hysteresis must be added externally using positive feedback, such as resistor networks between output and input pins, as shown in Figure 4 of the datasheet. The MAX984EPE's lack of a HYST pin confirms this architecture.

Can the MAX984EPE operate from a single 3.3V supply, and what are the input voltage limits in that configuration?

Yes, the MAX984EPE operates from a single 3.3V supply (within its 2.5V–11V range). With V+ = 3.3V and V− = GND, the input common-mode range extends from 0V to 2.0V (V+ − 1.3V), and the REF output is 1.182V above GND. Input signals must stay within this 0V–2.0V window for guaranteed performance, though absolute maximum ratings allow transient excursions to −0.3V and +3.6V.

What is the purpose of the separate GND pin (Pin 10) on the MAX984EPE, and how does it differ from V− (Pin 9)?

Pin 10 (GND) is the dedicated ground reference for all four open-drain output transistors, while Pin 9 (V−) is the negative supply rail for internal comparator circuitry. This separation allows the outputs to sink current to a clean, low-impedance ground - essential for level translation and noise immunity - even when V− is biased negatively in dual-supply operation. In single-supply use, both pins connect to system GND.

Is the MAX984EPE pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX971–MAX984 family, and which variants share the same 16-pin DIP footprint?

Yes, the MAX984EPE is pin-compatible with MAX974CPE, MAX974EPE, MAX984CPE, and MAX984ESE in the 16-pin DIP/SO package variants. All share identical pin functions and numbering per the Pin Configurations diagram. However, reference accuracy (±1% vs. ±2%), temperature grade (C vs. E), and internal hysteresis presence differ - so electrical compatibility must be verified per application requirements.