MAX163BCWG+T - 12-Bit ADC w/ Track-and-Hold, 24-SOIC | Maxim
MPN: MAX163BCWG+T ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $12.45 | $12.45 |
| 10 | $11.18 | $111.80 |
| 100 | $9.92 | $992.00 |
| 500 | $8.78 | $4,390.00 |
| 1,000 | $7.95 | $7,950.00 |
MAX163BCWG+T Overview
What is a SAR (Successive Approximation Register) ADC? A SAR ADC is a type of analog-to-digital converter that uses a binary-search algorithm against an internal precision DAC to resolve an input voltage in N conversion cycles, producing N-bit output. SAR ADCs sit in the broader taxonomy: ADC -> data converter -> mixed-signal IC -> semiconductor. They are valued for medium resolution (8 to 16 bits), deterministic latency, low power, and ease of use compared to delta-sigma or pipeline architectures. The track-and-hold front-end allows accurate conversion of fast-changing signals by holding the input constant during the conversion cycle.
Key features of the MAX163BCWG+T include 12-bit resolution, integrated track-and-hold, single +5V analog supply operation, low power CMOS construction, and a standard SO-24 wide surface-mount footprint. The +T suffix indicates factory tape-and-reel packaging for high-volume automated assembly.
The device uses a capacitive-charge redistribution DAC core with auto-calibration logic, providing excellent DC accuracy and low integral nonlinearity. Its parallel microprocessor interface simplifies connection to microcontrollers and DSPs without requiring a serial clock generator.
Typical applications include process control and instrumentation, data loggers, pen-trace plotters, patient monitoring, panel meters, and embedded industrial controllers. Designers choose the MAX163 family for its low power, simple parallel interface, and DIP/SO legacy compatibility for new and replacement designs.
When designing with this device, ensure the analog input does not exceed the supply rails; add anti-alias filtering at the input; and provide adequate decoupling (typically 10uF bulk + 0.1uF ceramic) close to the supply pin to ensure low-noise conversions.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in same-family alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX163BCWG+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 MAX163BCWG+T (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Resolution.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MAX163CCWG+
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX163CEWG+
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX163BCWG+
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$4.8 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX163CCWG+T
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX163BCWG+T Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 12 bits |
| ADC Architecture | Successive Approximation (SAR) |
| Track-and-Hold | Integrated |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 C to +70 C (Commercial) |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial |
| Package Type | SOP (Small Outline Package), SO-24 wide body |
| Number of Terminals | 24 |
| Terminal Form | Gull Wing |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel (+T) |
MAX163BCWG+T Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | AIN — Analog input |
| Pin 2 | REF — Reference voltage input |
| Pin 3 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 4 | VDD — +5V analog supply |
| Pin 5 | DGND — Digital ground |
| Pin 6 | VLOGIC — Logic supply (per datasheet) |
| Pin 7 | CS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 8 | RD — Read strobe (active low) |
| Pin 9 | WR — Write/conversion start |
| Pin 10 | D0 — Data bit 0 (LSB) |
| Pin 11 | D1 — Data bit 1 |
| Pin 12 | D2 — Data bit 2 |
| Pin 13 | D3 — Data bit 3 |
| Pin 14 | D4 — Data bit 4 |
| Pin 15 | D5 — Data bit 5 |
| Pin 16 | D6 — Data bit 6 |
| Pin 17 | D7 — Data bit 7 |
| Pin 18 | D8 — Data bit 8 |
| Pin 19 | D9 — Data bit 9 |
| Pin 20 | D10 — Data bit 10 |
| Pin 21 | D11 — Data bit 11 (MSB) |
| Pin 22 | HBEN — High-byte enable (per datasheet) |
| Pin 23 | INT — Conversion complete interrupt (active low) |
| Pin 24 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
MAX163BCWG+T is suitable for 6 applications: Process Control & Industrial Instrumentation, Data Loggers & Pen/Trace Recorders, Patient Monitoring & Medical Instrumentation, Digital Panel Meters & Test Equipment, Embedded Industrial Controllers, Legacy Replacement & Maintenance Designs.
Process Control & Industrial Instrumentation
The MAX163BCWG+T fits process-control front ends because its 12-bit SAR resolution and integrated track-and-hold deliver deterministic per-sample latency suitable for closed-loop control. With single +5V operation and a commercial 0C to 70C temperature grade, the part simplifies power-tree design in PLC analog input modules where multiple sensor channels must be digitized at moderate rates. Per the Maxim datasheet, the parallel microprocessor interface connects directly to 8051-class microcontrollers without glue logic, reducing BOM cost in distributed I/O systems.
Recommended
Data Loggers & Pen/Trace Recorders
Data loggers and pen-trace plotters need accurate, low-power ADCs that hold the input constant during conversion to avoid motion-induced artifacts. The MAX163BCWG+T's integrated track-and-hold captures fast-changing transducer signals (thermocouples, strain gauges, flow sensors) at up to 200 kSPS, ensuring channel-to-channel integrity during multiplexed scanning. Per Maxim's MAX163 datasheet, the CMOS construction reduces supply current for battery-backed portable loggers.
Recommended
Patient Monitoring & Medical Instrumentation
Patient monitoring equipment such as bedside monitors and portable ECG recorders requires 12-bit resolution at low power with deterministic sampling. The MAX163BCWG+T's parallel interface and commercial temperature range suit compact medical front ends where deterministic latency simplifies FDA documentation of measurement timing. Per the Maxim MAX163 datasheet, the integrated track-and-hold ensures accurate conversion of pulsatile biomedical signals without external sample-and-hold circuitry.
Recommended
Digital Panel Meters & Test Equipment
Digital panel meters (DPMs) and bench-top test equipment rely on 12-bit ADCs to drive 3.5- or 4.5-digit displays with sufficient resolution. The MAX163BCWG+T's parallel interface simplifies connection to LCD/LED display drivers and microcontrollers, while the SOIC-24 wide-body package supports hand-soldered prototypes and automated production. Per Maxim's datasheet, the device's CMOS low-power design benefits portable handheld DMMs.
Recommended
Embedded Industrial Controllers
Embedded industrial controllers with analog sensor inputs (pressure, temperature, level) require simple parallel-interface ADCs to avoid burdening the main MCU with serial-protocol overhead. The MAX163BCWG+T's parallel bus connects directly to 8-bit/16-bit microcontrollers, freeing CPU cycles for control-loop computation. Per the Maxim datasheet, the device's wide supply tolerance and industrial-pin-compatible SOIC-24 footprint suit harsh factory-floor environments.
Recommended
Legacy Replacement & Maintenance Designs
The MAX163 family has been in production for over 25 years, making the MAX163BCWG+T a primary candidate for maintaining legacy industrial systems that must remain in service for decades. With SOIC-24 wide-body drop-in compatibility with MAX163CCWG+, MAX163CEWG+, and MAX163BCWG+, the part supports field replacements and design refreshes without PCB rework. Per Maxim's product longevity program, the MAX163 series is committed to long-term availability for industrial customers.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX163BCWG+T — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX163CCWG+ | MAX163CEWG+ | MAX163BCWG+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Maxim Integrated | Maxim Integrated | Maxim Integrated | Maxim Integrated |
| Package | SOIC-24 (wide body) | SOIC-24 (wide body) - same | SOIC-24 (wide body) - same | SOIC-24 (wide body) - same |
| Resolution | 12 bits | 12 bits | 12 bits | 12 bits |
| Architecture | SAR with Track-and-Hold | SAR with Track-and-Hold | SAR with Track-and-Hold | SAR with Track-and-Hold |
| Temperature Grade | Commercial (0C to 70C) | Commercial (0C to 70C) | Commercial (0C to 70C) | Commercial (0C to 70C) |
| Packaging Format | Tape & Reel (+T) | Tube | Tube | Tube |
| Supply Voltage | +5V single supply | +5V single supply | +5V single supply | +5V single supply |
| Conversion Time (typ) | ~5 microseconds | ~5 microseconds | ~5 microseconds | ~5 microseconds |
| Drop-in Compatibility | Reference | Yes (per FindIC) | Yes (per FindIC) | Yes (identical die) |
Key Differentiators
- Commercial-grade option in tape-and-reel for automated assembly (vs MAX163BCWG+)
- Pin-compatible with the entire MAX163 SOIC-24 family (vs MAX163CCWG+)
- Integrated track-and-hold eliminates external SHA cost (vs Discrete ADC + external sample-and-hold)
Design Notes
Decouple the +5V analog supply (VDD pin) with a 10uF tantalum or ceramic bulk capacitor in parallel with a 0.1uF ceramic placed as close as physically possible to the supply pin. Separate analog and digital grounds with a single-point star connection at the AGND pin to prevent digital switching noise from coupling into the analog conversion path. Per Maxim's MAX163 datasheet, the VLOGIC pin may require its own decoupling depending on the interface logic level.
Route analog input traces away from digital clock and data bus lines. Use a ground plane under the ADC to provide low-impedance return paths and to shield the analog input from digital noise. Keep the analog input trace short and add a small RC anti-alias filter (typically 1kohm + 1nF) at the AIN pin when measuring signals with content above the Nyquist frequency of the sampling rate.
Do not apply analog input voltages exceeding VDD or below AGND - this will forward-bias the input ESD diodes and corrupt the conversion or damage the part. Per the Maxim MAX163 datasheet, ensure the reference voltage (REF pin) is stable and decoupled with a 10uF + 0.1uF combination to maintain ADC accuracy. Driving the WR/RD/CS lines without observing setup/hold times relative to the parallel-interface timing diagram will produce erroneous data.
Compliance Information
Compliance status not explicitly stated in the verified web data. MAX163 family predates some modern directives; check Analog Devices product page (Maxim was acquired in 2023) for current RoHS/lead-free declarations.
