Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX987ESA+T

Overview

MAX987ESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, micropower, rail-to-rail input/output comparator with push-pull output stage, operating from +2.5V to +5.5V supply, delivering 120ns propagation delay, 48μA quiescent current per comparator, and ±0.5mV typical input offset voltage. It is used in precision threshold detection and zero-crossing circuits within battery-powered portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX987ESA+T datasheet, MAX987ESA+T pinout, MAX987ESA+T application, or MAX987ESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its push-pull output capable of sourcing/sinking 8mA, rail-to-rail common-mode input range extending 250mV beyond rails, and guaranteed operation from –40°C to +85°C without phase reversal on overdriven inputs.

Technical Context

The MAX987ESA+T employs a high-speed, low-power comparator core with internal hysteresis (±2.5mV) to ensure clean switching on slow-moving signals. Its input stage supports common-mode voltages from VEE – 0.25V to VCC + 0.25V and exhibits ultra-low input bias current (1.0pA typical) and low input capacitance (1.0pF).

The push-pull output stage delivers rail-to-rail swing into loads up to 8mA, with VOL = 0.4V max at 8mA sink (VCC = 5V), VOH = 4.85V min at 8mA source (VCC = 5V), and negligible supply-current surges during transitions-enabling stable operation without large bypass capacitors in noise-sensitive systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX987ESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package (package code S8-2), with exposed pad not electrically connected. The device uses standard SOIC-8 footprint and is RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LMV331M5X/NOPB and TLV3501CDR, the MAX987ESA+T uniquely balances nanosecond-class speed (120ns), micropower operation (48μA), and true push-pull rail-to-rail drive - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-powered systems requiring reliable, low-jitter threshold decisions.

Availability

MAX987ESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable threshold detection, zero-crossing sensing, logic-level translation, and ground/supply monitoring requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed industrial temperature performance.

Supply support for MAX987ESA+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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX987ESA+T belongs to Maxim's high-speed micropower comparator family, engineered specifically for low-voltage, battery-operated systems demanding rail-to-rail accuracy, ultra-low power, and robust noise immunity.

FAQ

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX987ESA+T output can drive while maintaining 120ns propagation delay?

The MAX987ESA+T maintains ≤120ns propagation delay (at 100mV overdrive) with capacitive loads up to 15pF when VCC = 5V. At 50pF, delay increases to 20ns; at 200pF, it reaches 40ns. For designs requiring fast edges into heavier loads, add a buffer stage or reduce trace capacitance via layout optimization. The MAX987ESA+T datasheet specifies these values in the Electrical Characteristics table under tPD+ and tPD−.

Does the MAX987ESA+T support dual-supply operation, and what are the allowable voltage ranges?

Yes, the MAX987ESA+T supports dual-supply operation with ±1.25V to ±2.75V (i.e., total supply span of 2.5V to 5.5V). For example, it operates correctly with VCC = +2.75V and VEE = –2.75V, or VCC = +1.25V and VEE = –1.25V. The absolute maximum rating limits total supply voltage (VCC – VEE) to 6V. This flexibility enables bipolar signal conditioning in sensor front-ends and audio applications.

Can the MAX987ESA+T be used with input voltages exceeding the supply rails, and what protection is provided?

Yes, the MAX987ESA+T accepts input voltages up to 0.25V beyond either supply rail (VEE – 0.25V to VCC + 0.25V) without phase reversal. Internal body diodes clamp inputs if driven further, limiting damage but increasing bias current exponentially. For sustained overvoltage conditions, external series resistors (e.g., 100kΩ) are recommended to limit current to <20mA, as specified in Absolute Maximum Ratings.

What is the output voltage swing capability of the MAX987ESA+T under 8mA load conditions?

At VCC = 5V and ISINK = 8mA, the MAX987ESA+T guarantees VOL ≤ 0.4V (typical 0.2V); at ISOURCE = 8mA, VOH ≥ 4.85V (typical 4.6V). At VCC = 2.7V and ISINK = 3.5mA, VOL ≤ 0.3V; at ISOURCE = 3.5mA, VOH ≥ 2.55V. These values confirm true rail-to-rail output swing under moderate loads - critical for driving logic inputs or small actuators directly.

Is the MAX987ESA+T pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX987/MAX988 family, such as MAX988ESA?

No, the MAX987ESA+T is not pin-compatible with MAX988ESA. While both are 8-pin SO packages, MAX987ESA+T has a push-pull output (Pin 1 = OUT), whereas MAX988ESA features an open-drain output requiring an external pull-up. Their pin functions differ: MAX988ESA Pin 1 is also OUT, but its electrical behavior and drive capability are incompatible. Substitution requires schematic and layout revision.