Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX984ESE+T

Overview

The MAX984ESE+T 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) or single-supply operation (2.5V to 11V). It features separate GND pin for output transistors, rail-to-rail input range down to V−, and is designed for level translation and bipolar-to-single-ended conversion in battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX984ESE+T datasheet, MAX984ESE+T pinout, MAX984ESE+T application, or MAX984ESE+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 4µA quiescent current at −40°C to +85°C, 16-pin narrow SO package, open-drain outputs with 11V output swing referenced to V−, and absence of internal hysteresis-requiring external feedback for hysteresis implementation.

Technical Context

The MAX984ESE+T integrates four independent comparators sharing a common internal bandgap reference (1.182V ±2% over 0°C to +70°C; ±3% over −40°C to +85°C), with each comparator's inputs operating from V− to (V+ − 1.3V). Its open-drain outputs sink current to GND (pins OUTA–OUTD), enabling wire-OR configurations and level-shifting across voltage domains.

No HYST pin is present-unlike MAX981–MAX983-so hysteresis must be implemented externally via positive feedback. The device lacks internal hysteresis and reference buffering, requiring careful layout to avoid REF pin crosstalk, especially given its 1mVpp reference noise and 300µVpp comparator noise when used together.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 16-pin narrow SO (SOIC-N), 0.150" wide, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX974ESE (±1% reference) and LM339DR (no reference, higher current), the MAX984ESE+T delivers optimal balance of ultra-low power, integrated ±3% reference, and dedicated output GND - making it ideal for space-constrained, battery-operated level translators and multi-threshold detectors where moderate reference accuracy suffices.

Availability

MAX984ESE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, power-good monitoring, level translation, and bipolar signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX984ESE+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, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX971–MAX984 family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power threshold detection and level translation in resource-constrained systems, emphasizing micropower operation, rail-to-rail inputs, and integrated references to reduce external component count.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX984ESE+T?

The MAX984ESE+T is rated for −40°C to +85°C (Extended temperature range). This is confirmed in the Ordering Information table, where "MAX984ESE" denotes the −40°C to +85°C grade in 16-pin narrow SO packaging. All electrical specifications-including 4µA max supply current and ±3% reference accuracy-are guaranteed across this full range.

Does the MAX984ESE+T include internal hysteresis?

No, the MAX984ESE+T does not include internal hysteresis. Unlike MAX981–MAX983 variants, the MAX984ESE+T has no HYST pin and no factory-programmed hysteresis. Hysteresis must be added externally using positive feedback resistors, as shown in Figure 4 of the datasheet. This design choice provides flexibility but requires additional passive components.

What is the purpose of the separate GND pin (Pin 14) on the MAX984ESE+T?

The separate GND pin (Pin 14) on the MAX984ESE+T is dedicated to the output transistor substrate and sink path. It isolates output switching noise from the analog ground (V−) and reference circuitry, preventing ground bounce from corrupting precision threshold detection-especially critical in low-noise, multi-comparator applications like window detectors.

Can the MAX984ESE+T operate from a single 3.3V supply?

Yes, the MAX984ESE+T operates from a single 3.3V supply (V+ = 3.3V, V− = GND). Its specified single-supply range is 2.5V to 11V. At 3.3V, supply current remains ≤4µA over temperature, input common-mode range extends from 0V to 2.0V, and propagation delay increases slightly to ~15µs (per Typical Operating Characteristics curves), remaining fully functional for most monitoring tasks.

How is the reference voltage (REF) referenced on the MAX984ESE+T?

The REF pin on the MAX984ESE+T outputs 1.182V with respect to V−, not GND. When using a single supply (V− = GND), REF = 1.182V. In dual-supply configurations (e.g., V+ = +5V, V− = −5V), REF = −5V + 1.182V = −3.818V. This V−-referenced architecture enables accurate threshold generation across both single- and dual-supply topologies without level-shifting circuitry.