MAX188AEWP+

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Overview

The MAX188AEWP+ is a low-power, 8-channel, serial 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It integrates an 8-channel multiplexer, high-bandwidth track/hold circuitry, and a successive-approximation conversion engine. The device operates on a single +5V or dual ±5V supply and features a software-configurable input range for unipolar or bipolar signals. Unlike the MAX186, this variant requires an external reference voltage applied to the VREF pin. It utilizes a 4-wire serial interface compatible with SPI, QSPI, and MICROWIRE protocols.

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Feature Summary

• 12-bit resolution with 8 single-ended or 4 differential analog inputs
• External reference requirement with integrated reference-buffer amplifier
• Serial interface compatible with SPI, QSPI, MICROWIRE, and TMS320 DSPs
• Ultra-low power consumption: 1.5mA operating current, down to 2µA in full power-down mode

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Applications

• Portable data logging systems
• High-accuracy process control instrumentation
• Automatic testing equipment
• Battery-powered medical instruments

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific application design includes an external precision voltage reference connected to the VREF pin, as the MAX188AEWP+ does not contain an internal reference unlike the MAX186. Confirm the package type matches the 'WP' suffix (20-pin SOIC) and the temperature grade corresponds to the 'E' suffix (-40°C to +85°C). Ensure the system architecture supports the required serial communication timing for the selected clock mode.

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Selection Notes

Select the MAX188AEWP+ when an external reference is preferred or already available in the system design. Choose this part over the MAX186 if the application demands flexibility in reference voltage selection. Ensure the source impedance of the analog inputs is managed to meet the 1.5µs acquisition time requirement, particularly for high-speed sampling rates up to 133ksps.

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Part Context

The MAX188AEWP+ belongs to the MAX186/MAX188 family of low-power data-acquisition systems. It shares the same core architecture, pinout, and performance specifications as the MAX186, with the primary distinction being the absence of an internal voltage reference. This allows designers to utilize higher precision or different voltage level references external to the ADC.

ADCs/DACs - Special Purpose Replacement Considerations

The MAX186AEWP+ is a direct functional substitute if an internal reference is acceptable. Other members of the MAX188 family, such as MAX188BCWP+, offer different accuracy grades but maintain pin compatibility.