Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX988ESA+

Overview

MAX988ESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, micropower, rail-to-rail input/output comparator with open-drain output stage, designed for low-voltage systems operating from +2.5V to +5.5V. It delivers 120ns propagation delay at 100mV overdrive, consumes only 48μA per comparator at +2.7V, and supports common-mode input voltage range extending 250mV beyond both supply rails. It is used in level translation, zero-crossing detection, and threshold sensing in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX988ESA+ datasheet, MAX988ESA+ pinout, MAX988ESA+ application, or MAX988ESA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its open-drain output capable of pulling up to 6V above VEE, ±2.5mV internal hysteresis, rail-to-rail input operation down to 2.5V supply, and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained industrial and battery-powered designs.

Technical Context

The MAX988ESA+ employs an open-drain output architecture that allows output voltage to extend beyond VCC-up to +6V referenced to VEE-enabling robust level translation between disparate logic domains. Its input stage features rail-to-rail common-mode range (VEE − 0.25V to VCC + 0.25V) and ultra-low 1.0pA typical input bias current, minimizing loading on high-impedance sources.

Internal hysteresis of ±2.5mV ensures clean switching with slow-moving signals, while the unique output-stage design limits supply-current surges during transitions-reducing power-supply glitches without requiring large decoupling capacitors. It operates across −40°C to +85°C and is specified with 0.5mV typical input offset voltage and 80dB PSRR.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX988ESA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package (package code S8-2), with exposed pad not present and RoHS-compliant finish. The package measures 4.9mm × 3.9mm × 1.75mm (L × W × H) and is compatible with standard SO-8 PCB footprints and reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV3701IDBVR and LMV7215M5X, MAX988ESA+ uniquely combines 120ns speed, 48μA supply current, rail-to-rail input, and built-in ±2.5mV hysteresis in an SO-8 package-making it optimal for high-accuracy, low-glitch, mixed-voltage sensing where timing and power are co-critical.

Availability

MAX988ESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, industrial level translators, and precision threshold detectors requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX988ESA+ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX987/MAX988 family was engineered for micropower, high-speed, rail-to-rail comparator functions in space- and energy-constrained systems-emphasizing low supply current, fast propagation, and robust input/output voltage handling.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable output voltage for MAX988ESA+ relative to VEE?

The MAX988ESA+ open-drain output can be pulled up to a maximum of +6V above VEE. This specification allows safe interfacing with higher-voltage logic families (e.g., 5V) while powered from a lower VCC (e.g., 3.3V). Exceeding this limit risks permanent damage. The MAX988ESA+ datasheet explicitly states "OUT to VEE: −0.3V to +6V" under Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Does MAX988ESA+ require external hysteresis for stable operation with noisy inputs?

No-MAX988ESA+ includes ±2.5mV internal hysteresis, which suppresses chatter caused by input noise or slow slew rates. This eliminates the need for external positive-feedback resistors in most threshold-detection applications. However, if wider hysteresis is required (e.g., >10mV), the MAX988ESA+ supports external resistor networks as documented in its Applications Information section.

Can MAX988ESA+ operate from a single 2.5V supply?

Yes-MAX988ESA+ is fully specified for operation from +2.5V to +5.5V single supply. At VCC = +2.5V, it maintains rail-to-rail input capability (down to VEE − 0.25V), 120ns propagation delay (at 100mV overdrive), and 48μA typical supply current. This makes MAX988ESA+ suitable for ultra-low-voltage battery-powered systems where headroom is minimal.

What is the function of pins 6, 7, and 8 on the MAX988ESA+ SO-8 package?

Pins 6, 7, and 8 of the MAX988ESA+ are No Connect (N.C.) terminals-physically present but not internally bonded or electrically functional. Per the official Maxim Integrated datasheet Pin Description table and Pin Configurations diagram, these pins must remain unconnected. They may be tied to VEE solely for mechanical reinforcement, but no current path or signal routing should be assigned to them.

How does the output stage of MAX988ESA+ reduce supply-line glitches compared to conventional comparators?

The MAX988ESA+ uses a proprietary output-stage design that minimizes transient supply-current surges during output transitions-reducing supply glitches by orders of magnitude. Unlike standard comparators whose switching current spikes cause significant VCC droop, MAX988ESA+ exhibits only ~2mA peak switching current (per Typical Operating Characteristics plots), enabling stable operation without large bulk decoupling capacitors. This behavior is intrinsic to the MAX988ESA+ silicon architecture and confirmed in its Detailed Description section.