MAX1274BETC+T - 12-Bit 1.8Msps Diff ADC | Analog Devices
MPN: MAX1274BETC+T ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $7.85 | $7.85 |
| 10 | $7.1 | $71.00 |
| 100 | $5.95 | $595.00 |
| 500 | $5.05 | $2,525.00 |
| 1,000 | $4.45 | $4,450.00 |
MAX1274BETC+T Overview
An SAR (Successive Approximation Register) ADC is a type of analog-to-digital converter that performs conversion by binary-searching the input voltage against an internal DAC using a comparator, one bit per step, completing in N clock cycles per conversion. SAR ADCs are valued for low latency, deterministic conversion time, and excellent DC accuracy - making them the standard choice for multiplexed data-acquisition systems, industrial process control loops, and precision sensor readouts. The MAX1274 belongs to the data converter IC family, which sits within the broader signal-chain and mixed-signal semiconductor hierarchy.
Key specifications include 1.8Msps maximum sampling rate, true-differential input architecture for improved common-mode noise rejection, 12-bit resolution (DNL of each measurement input), SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial output, and low power consumption of typically 15mW at full speed. The device operates from a single +5V analog supply with a separate +3V to +5V digital I/O supply for easy microcontroller interfacing.
The MAX1274/MAX1275 family shares a common BiCMOS process technology, achieving low power dissipation without sacrificing speed. Internal options include software-configurable input ranges (unipolar) and an internal or external reference, simplifying board layout. The MAX1274 (MAX1274B suffix) features a -B internal reference voltage configuration distinguishing it from the MAX1274A variant.
Typical applications include portable instrumentation, multi-channel data-acquisition systems, process control loops, battery-powered medical devices, and industrial sensor readouts. True-differential inputs make it well-suited for bridge sensors and thermocouple front-ends. Single-supply operation simplifies power tree design in compact embedded systems.
When designing, place the input RC filter components within 5mm of the analog input pins and keep digital traces away from analog traces. The internal reference output requires an external bypass capacitor of 0.1uF plus 10uF for noise filtering - omitting this capacitor degrades SNR performance.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives from web cross-reference data, and practical design guidance beyond the manufacturer datasheet to support rapid design-in and sourcing decisions.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX1274BETC+T — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MAX1274BETC+T (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Sampling Rate, Operating Temperature, RoHS Status, Analog Supply Voltage.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MAX1274BETC+
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.55 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX1275BETC+T
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX1274AETC+
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.42 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX1202ACAP
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$7.17 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX1224CTC+T
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
LTC2360ITS8
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$2.78 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX1274BETC+T Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 12 bits |
| Sampling Rate | 1.8 Msps maximum |
| Number of Channels | 1 input, 1 SAR ADC |
| Architecture | SAR (Successive Approximation Register) |
| Input Configuration | True-differential |
| Analog Supply Voltage | 5 V (single supply) |
| Maximum Analog Input Voltage | 5.25 V |
| Digital I/O Supply | 3 V to 5 V |
| Reference | Internal 4.096 V (MAX1274B variant) |
| Data Interface | SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial |
| Input Range | Unipolar, software-configurable |
| Power Consumption | 15 mW at 1.8 Msps typical |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 C to +85 C |
| Package | 12-TQFN (4x4 mm), 0.8 mm height |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Technology | BiCMOS |
MAX1274BETC+T Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | AVDD — Analog +5V supply |
| Pin 2 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 3 | REF — Reference voltage input/output (internal) |
| Pin 4 | REF_CAP — Reference bypass capacitor node |
| Pin 5 | IN+ — Positive differential analog input |
| Pin 6 | IN- — Negative differential analog input |
| Pin 7 | DGND — Digital ground |
| Pin 8 | DVDD — Digital I/O supply (3-5V) |
| Pin 9 | CS — Chip select input (active low) |
| Pin 10 | SCLK — Serial clock input |
| Pin 11 | DOUT — Serial data output |
| Pin 12 | SSTRB — Serial start-of-conversion strobe output |
Typical Applications
MAX1274BETC+T is suitable for 6 applications: Portable Instrumentation and Data Acquisition, Industrial Process Control and Sensor Readout, Medical and Patient Monitoring Devices, Automotive Sensor and Telematics Modules, Power Metering and Energy Monitoring, Communications and Baseband Signal Capture.
Portable Instrumentation and Data Acquisition
The MAX1274BETC+T suits portable instrumentation thanks to its 1.8Msps throughput, true-differential inputs that reject common-mode noise from long sensor cables, and 15mW typical power dissipation at full speed. In a handheld oscilloscope or DMM, the converter digitizes analog sensor signals while SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE-compatible serial output interfaces directly to a low-power microcontroller. The -40C to +85C industrial range and 4x4 TQFN package enable compact handheld form factors. Battery-powered designs benefit from the single 5V analog supply rail; pair the device with a low-quiescent current-mode LDO to extend runtime while maintaining 12-bit DC accuracy for measurement integrity.
Recommended
Industrial Process Control and Sensor Readout
For industrial process control the MAX1274BETC+T offers 1.8Msps, true-differential 12-bit SAR conversion ideal for strain-gauge and bridge-sensor signal chains. In a weight-scale or pressure transmitter, the converter digitizes a strain-gauge differential bridge output, while its -40C to +85C range and 4.096V internal reference support factory-floor environments. The 5.25V max analog input handles over-range transients from industrial actuators. Place 100-ohm series resistors and 10nF capacitors at the inputs as close to the IC as possible to filter RF noise; decouple the AVDD pin with 10uF plus 0.1uF ceramic capacitors to keep digital switching ripple out of the analog front end.
Recommended
Medical and Patient Monitoring Devices
The MAX1274BETC+T fits medical patient-monitoring applications where battery-powered medical product designs require low-noise, low-latency SAR sampling. In a portable ECG or pulse-oximeter, the true-differential inputs digitize low-amplitude biopotential signals while rejecting common-mode mains-frequency interference from electrodes. Its 12-bit resolution (4096 codes, 0.024% FS) is sufficient for heart-rate trending and SpO2 calculations, while the 1.8Msps throughput enables oversampling to improve SNR beyond the datasheet rating. The BiCMOS process keeps power dissipation at 15mW, extending battery life in body-worn monitors. Single +5V analog supply simplifies the medical safety isolation barrier; add a digital isolator between the converter and any patient-applied circuitry.
Recommended
Automotive Sensor and Telematics Modules
In automotive sensor and telematics modules, the MAX1274BETC+T supports 1.8Msps SAR conversion for fast-response sensor readout, though it is not AEC-Q100 qualified (the standard MAX1274BETC family is industrial grade). In a battery-monitoring or chassis-control module, the converter samples voltage, current, or wheel-speed transducer signals with 12-bit accuracy. True-differential inputs reject common-mode ground-shift noise from long automotive harnesses, and the -40C to +85C range covers engine-bay and cabin environments. Note that AEC-Q100 applications should pair this part with the MAX1274B automotive-grade variant if available; the B-suffix indicates industrial temperature. The compact 4x4 TQFN package supports tight under-hood layouts where PCB area is constrained.
Recommended
Power Metering and Energy Monitoring
The MAX1274BETC+T works in power-metering systems for voltage and current channel digitization in single-phase electricity meters. In a residential smart meter, the 1.8Msps sampling per channel allows synchronous sampling of line voltage and current waveforms, supporting accurate active harmonic detection per 0.5-4% class metering accuracy requirements. The 5.25V max analog input range handles 5V scaled-down mains-voltage signals directly, while the true-differential input rejects common-mode voltage transients from the mains side. Pair the device with an isolated SPI digital interface to provide reinforced isolation for safe mains-side metering; the 12-bit resolution over 4.096V reference gives 1mV LSB resolution sufficient for class-1 metering.
Recommended
Communications and Baseband Signal Capture
In communications baseband signal-capture applications the MAX1274BETC+T supports 1.8Msps SAR conversion with true-differential inputs that simplify coupling to baseband signal chains. In a small-cell base station or RF receiver, the converter digitizes low-IF baseband I/Q signals with 12-bit resolution, providing 0.024% FS accuracy for downstream digital demodulation. The 5.25V max analog input and 4.096V internal reference support the typical 1-4Vpp baseband signal range from direct-conversion transceivers. Use 100-ohm differential source resistors and a band-pass anti-alias filter to limit broadband noise folding back into the signal band. The TQFN-12 footprint fits small-cell RF cards where PCB real estate is constrained.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX1274BETC+T — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX1274BETC+ | MAX1275BETC+T | MAX1274AETC+ | MAX1202ACAP | MAX1224CTC+T | LTC2360ITS8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices (same) | Analog Devices (same) | Analog Devices (same) | Analog Devices (same) | Analog Devices (same) | Analog Devices / Linear Technology |
| Package | TQFN-12 (4x4 mm) | TQFN-12 (4x4 mm) - same | TQFN-12 (4x4 mm) - same | TQFN-12 (4x4 mm) - same | TQFN-12 - same | TQFN-12 - same | TSOT-23-8 - compact alternate |
| Resolution | 12 bits | 12 bits - same | 12 bits - same | 12 bits - same | 12 bits - same | 12 bits - same | 12 bits - same |
| Sampling Rate | 1.8 Msps | 1.8 Msps - same | 225 ksps (-87%) | 1.8 Msps - same | 50 ksps (-97%) | 225 ksps (-87%) | 500 ksps (-72%) |
| Input Configuration | True-differential | True-differential - same | True-differential - same | True-differential - same | Pseudo-differential | True-differential - same | Pseudo-differential |
| Supply Voltage | +5 V analog | +5 V - same | +5 V - same | +5 V - same | +3 V to +5 V | +5 V - same | +2.5 V to +5 V |
Key Differentiators
- True-differential 1.8Msps sampling with single +5V rail (vs MAX1275BETC+T)
- Internal 4.096V reference (B variant) eliminates external reference cost (vs MAX1274AETC+)
- 12-TQFN (4x4 mm) industrial-grade footprint (vs LTC2360ITS8)
- Wide analog input range up to 5.25V (vs MAX1202ACAP)
Design Notes
Estimated: at 1.8Msps with 5V supply, the MAX1274BETC+T dissipates approximately 15 mW, so power-supply decoupling matters. Use a 10uF X5R ceramic in parallel with a 0.1uF X7R ceramic placed within 3mm of the AVDD pin to suppress switching-converter ripple from upstream rails. The DVDD pin (3-5V digital supply) can be driven from the same 5V source through a ferrite bead to provide digital-analog isolation, or from the host MCU's 3.3V rail if the MCU operates at 3.3V logic levels. Always place the bypass caps as close to the IC as possible - per datasheet - to minimize the inductance of the high-frequency return path.
The MAX1274BETC+T pinout groups analog pins (AVDD, AGND, REF, IN+, IN-) on one side and digital pins (CS, SCLK, DOUT, SSTRB, DVDD, DGND) on the other side of the TQFN-12 package. Route analog signal traces first, keeping them on a separate analog ground plane if possible. Avoid routing digital SPI traces across or parallel to the analog input traces; cross them at right angles if they must meet. Place the REF_CAP capacitor within 1mm of the REF and REF_CAP pins - this capacitor is critical to filter reference-bias noise and directly impacts SNR. Use a 4-layer PCB with a dedicated ground plane for best noise immunity.
For the true-differential inputs IN+ and IN-, place a matched RC anti-alias filter (typically 100-ohm series + 1nF differential capacitor) within 5mm of the IC pins. The matched resistors and common-mode capacitor reduce RF common-mode pickup before the ADC's input sampling capacitor. Differential input traces should be routed as a 50-ohm differential pair with matched trace lengths to maintain same impedance (for good common-mode rejection). If using a single-ended sensor source, drive IN+ with the signal and IN- with a quiet mid-supply reference; however, this configuration forfeits some common-mode rejection. The internal reference provides 4.096V for the B variant; for demanding AC applications, an external low-noise reference is recommended.
Common mistakes when designing with the MAX1274BETC+T: (1) Omitting the REF_CAP bypass capacitor - this degrades SNR by 3-6 dB. (2) Driving the analog inputs above 5.25V - even brief transients can permanently damage the ESD diodes. (3) Using long digital traces that pick up switching-current spikes near AREF noise input - keep digital traces short and away from REF. (4) Selecting the wrong SPI clock polarity/phase - the MAX1274BETC+T uses SPI Mode 0 (CPOL=0, CPHA=0) per the datasheet. (5) Forgetting to provide a logic-stable clock per IEC 61010 - a floating SCLK pin can cause spurious conversions. Always verify with the manufacturer datasheet before finalizing the design.
Compliance Information
RoHS and REACH compliant per Analog Devices (formerly Maxim Integrated) MAX1274 datasheet. Industrial temperature range -40C to +85C; not AEC-Q100 qualified. Lead-free and halogen-free per Maxim Integrated product declarations.
