Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX998ESA

Overview

MAX998ESA from Maxim Integrated is a single, high-speed, low-power comparator optimized for +2.7V to +5.5V single-supply operation in space-constrained systems. It delivers 20ns propagation delay, 225µA supply current per comparator, and rail-to-rail output drive without external pull-ups-enabling direct interface with CMOS/TTL logic in battery-powered IR receivers and threshold detection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MAX998ESA datasheet, MAX998ESA pinout, MAX998ESA application, or MAX998ESA equivalent, key selection criteria include shutdown current (1nA), ground-sensing input range (–0.2V to VCC–1.2V), internal hysteresis (0.5–4.0mV), and SOT23-6 package compatibility with tight layout constraints.

Technical Context

The MAX998ESA employs a CMOS input stage with common-mode range extending 200mV below ground and up to VCC–1.2V, enabling true ground-referenced sensing. Its push-pull output supports rail-to-rail swing under 2mA sink/source loads, eliminating need for external pull-up resistors.

Internal hysteresis (0.5–4.0mV input-referred) prevents oscillation on slow-moving or noisy inputs, while the SHDN pin provides deterministic shutdown control-activating high-impedance output and reducing ICC to 1nA. Propagation delay matching (ΔtPD = 1ns) and skew (tSKEW = 2ns) are specified only for multi-channel variants, not applicable to the single-channel MAX998ESA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX998ESA is housed in a RoHS-compliant 6-pin SOT23 package (outline 21-0058), with 1.3mm × 2.2mm footprint and 0.95mm height-optimized for PCB area-constrained designs such as portable medical sensors and wearables.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed, low-power comparator applications.

Compared with MAX998ESA, LMV7215M5X trades shutdown capability and ground-sensing for lower quiescent current, while TLV3501DBVR offers extreme speed at the cost of power efficiency and input range-making MAX998ESA the optimal balance for battery-operated, space-constrained, ground-referenced sensing.

Availability

MAX998ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered systems, IR receivers, and 3V threshold detection requiring stable component supply across industrial, medical, and consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for MAX998ESA 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-performance power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX998ESA belongs to Maxim's high-speed comparator family designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power, space-constrained applications requiring fast response, ground-sensing capability, and deterministic shutdown behavior.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable common-mode input voltage range for MAX998ESA?

The MAX998ESA supports a common-mode input voltage range from –0.2V to (VCC – 1.2V). This means it can accurately compare signals referenced below ground (e.g., photodiode outputs) or up to 1.2V below the positive supply. At VCC = 3.3V, the upper limit is 2.1V; at VCC = 5.5V, it is 4.3V. Operation outside this range may cause unpredictable output states.

Does MAX998ESA require external pull-up resistors on its output?

No, MAX998ESA does not require external pull-up resistors. Its push-pull output stage delivers rail-to-rail VOH (≥ VCC – 0.4V) and VOL (≤ 0.4V) at 2mA load, enabling direct interface with standard CMOS and TTL logic families. This eliminates BOM cost and PCB routing complexity associated with pull-up networks.

How does the shutdown feature of MAX998ESA behave electrically?

When SHDN is driven low, MAX998ESA disables its internal comparator core, places the OUT pin in a high-impedance state, and reduces total supply current to 1nA (typical). The output remains floating-not pulled high or low-so external logic must handle the high-Z condition. SHDN must never be left unconnected due to its high-impedance input nature.

Can MAX998ESA operate from a 2.7V supply while maintaining full 20ns propagation delay performance?

Yes, MAX998ESA maintains 20ns typical propagation delay across its full +2.7V to +5.5V supply range. Electrical Characteristics tables confirm tPD = 20ns (typ) at VCC = 2.7V, 50mV overdrive, and CLOAD = 10pF. Performance degradation is minimal-delay increases only to ~22ns at worst-case temperature and voltage corners.

What is the purpose of internal hysteresis in MAX998ESA, and how wide is it?

MAX998ESA's internal hysteresis (0.5–4.0mV input-referred) prevents output oscillation when input voltages are near the decision threshold-especially critical for slow-moving or noisy signals like those from IR photodiodes or thermistor dividers. This eliminates need for external positive-feedback networks while ensuring clean, chatter-free switching behavior.