Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX924ESE

MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator with Integrated Voltage Reference Product Summary

The MAX924ESE+ from Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated is a quad comparator featuring an integrated precision voltage reference, housed in a 16-SOIC package. It is part of the MAX921–MAX924 family, designed to deliver ultra-low power consumption, TTL/CMOS-compatible outputs, and reliable operation across a wide supply voltage range. This product is targeted toward engineers seeking robust, micropower comparators for stringent analog circuit requirements, especially in battery-powered, portable, and low-voltage systems.

Highlights and Specifications of the MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

The MAX924ESE+ stands out in the comparator market due to its combination of features:

Four independent comparator channels, maximizing integration per PCB footprint.

Internal precision 1.182V ±1% bandgap reference that streamlines threshold detection and voltage monitoring applications.

Ultra-low quiescent supply current, minimizing battery drain and thermal stress.

Flexible supply operation from a single +2.5V to +11V, or dual ±1.25V to ±5.5V rails, accommodating a broad spectrum of system designs.

Input voltage range includes negative supply, supporting groundor negative-referenced signals.

TTL/CMOS-compatible outputs capable of both sourcing and sinking current, with continuous sourcing of up to 40mA and sinking over 5mA.

Fast propagation delay (typical 12μs at 10mV overdrive), suitable for responsive detection applications.

Integrated protection features and reliable behavior through minimized output glitches and parasitic feedback.

16-SOIC package, facilitating ease of handling, automated assembly, and reliable thermal performance.

Electrical Parameters and Performance Limits of MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

Designed for guaranteed performance over a full industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C for E-grade parts), the MAX924ESE+ operates reliably at both 5V and 3V nominal supply voltages. Inputs can safely swing from V- up to within about 1.3V of V+, and tolerate excursions above and below supply rails by up to ±300mV without damage. The absolute maximum ratings ensure robust operation in harsh environments, with maximum dissipation levels tailored to package type and ambient temperature.

Detailed Functionality Structure and Built-in Voltage Reference of MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

The core architecture of the MAX924ESE+ integrates four low-power comparator channels and a precision bandgap reference. The comparators feature a unique output stage that eliminates crowbar glitches during logic transitions, combating parasitic supply feedback and enhancing layout immunity—especially critical in high-impedance, analog-centric designs. The voltage reference output (REF) maintains high accuracy over temperature and can source/sink microamp-level currents to support detector thresholds or external loads. All comparators can continuously source up to 40mA, supporting direct-drive of moderate-current loads (e.g., small indicators).

Hysteresis Design in the MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

Precise hysteresis control is crucial for applications like threshold detectors or window comparators, where input noise may otherwise induce false triggering. The MAX924ESE+ implements hysteresis using positive feedback with external resistors. Using this method, designers can tailor the hysteresis band (defined by the difference between the upper and lower thresholds) to application requirements, enhancing the noise immunity and stability of the comparator response. Practical guidance and calculation formulas allow engineers to determine the required resistor values for desired hysteresis voltages, balancing accuracy and power consumption.

Power Supply Requirements and Input Voltage Range for MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

The flexibility of the MAX924ESE+ power rails makes it suitable for both single- and dual-supply systems, supporting industry-standard voltages as well as specialty rail configurations. In single-supply mode (V+ = +2.5V to +11V, V- = GND), the output swing approaches ground, enabling direct TTL interfacing. For dual-supply operation (±1.25V up to ±5.5V), the comparator supports bipolar input signals, crucial for precision analog front ends or industrial monitoring. The input common-mode range from V- to (V+ – 1.3V) ensures robust operation for low-level and reference-based analog signals.

Output Configuration and Operational Performance of MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

Driven by a proprietary output topology, the MAX924ESE+ minimizes supply-induced glitches during logical state transitions, resulting in stable operation even in layouts lacking extensive bypassing. The output source current capability (up to 40mA continuous, 100mA in pulses at 5V) supports applications such as LED driving or logic interfacing. Short propagation delays accelerate response time in dynamic monitoring scenarios, while the quiescent current remains in the microampere range, aligning with long battery life requirements.

PCB Design Recommendations for MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

To maintain optimal performance, engineers should observe best practices in PCB layout: use short signal traces to reduce input-output stray capacitance and minimize instability risk. While supply bypass capacitors (e.g., 100nF) may be unnecessary with low-impedance rails, they are recommended for supplies with long leads or higher impedance. The REF output should not be bypassed to avoid compromising the precision of voltage reference.

Common Application Schematics for MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

The versatility of the MAX924ESE+ quadrature comparator enables its deployment in a range of engineering scenarios:

Auto-off power sources: Leveraging microamp-level quiescent current and high output drive to implement timed power switches with integrated voltage and hysteresis control.

Window detectors: Building undervoltage/overvoltage monitoring in power management or battery supervisory circuits, using multiple comparator channels and resistor networks for precise threshold definition.

Bar-graph level gauges: Driving LEDs directly to create multi-stage analog level indicators, benefitting from the comparator’s output current capability.

Level shifters: Translating bipolar analog signals (e.g., ±5V) to logic-level outputs for microcontroller or digital system interfacing.

Package Details, Pin Assignment, and Layout Information for MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

The MAX924ESE+ is available in a standard 16-pin SOIC package with straightforward pin configuration, facilitating automated assembly and robust thermal performance. Up-to-date footprint and package outline data can be accessed on the manufacturer’s website, assisting engineers in rapid integration with existing or new PCB designs.

Comparable or Substitute Devices for the MAX924ESE+ Quad Comparator

When evaluating alternatives to the MAX924ESE+, engineers may consider other members of the MAX921–MAX924 family (single: MAX921, dual: MAX922, MAX923) for lower channel count needs. Comparable quad comparator solutions include:

Texas Instruments LM339 series quad comparators

ON Semiconductor LM324 family with built-in reference features

STMicroelectronics TS339 comparators for similar voltage and drive characteristics

The choice of replacement should be guided by requirements for voltage reference accuracy, quiescent current, input range, output current capability, package constraints, and supply voltage flexibility.

Conclusion

: Selecting the MAX924ESE+ quad comparator for engineering applications

The MAX924ESE+ from Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated provides an advanced integration of four ultra-low-power comparators and a precision voltage reference, supporting a wide array of analog monitoring, conversion, and interface tasks. With flexible supply options, high accuracy, configurable hysteresis, robust output drive, and straightforward package options, it offers a compelling choice for engineers and procurement specialists seeking reliability and technical excellence in analog signal processing. When performance, integration, and power savings are key selection criteria, the MAX924ESE+ should rank highly on the candidate list for comparator-based system designs.