MAX172BMRG/883B - 12-Bit 100ksps SAR ADC, 883B Military | Maxim
MPN: MAX172BMRG/883B ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $145 | $145.00 |
| 10 | $130 | $1,300.00 |
| 100 | $115 | $11,500.00 |
| 500 | $98 | $49,000.00 |
| 1,000 | $84 | $84,000.00 |
MAX172BMRG/883B Overview
An ADC (analog-to-digital converter) is a data-acquisition IC that samples a continuous analog voltage and converts it into a discrete digital code for processing by a microcontroller, DSP, or FPGA. Successive-approximation (SAR) ADCs, the architecture used in the MAX172 family, use a binary-search algorithm driven by an internal DAC and comparator to resolve one bit per clock cycle, achieving the best balance of speed, resolution, and power for instrumentation-grade measurement. Within the converter hierarchy, the MAX172 sits under SAR -> ADC -> data converter -> mixed-signal IC -> semiconductor.
Key features include 12-bit resolution with no missing codes, 100 ksps throughput, a standard microprocessor bus interface with three-state outputs controlled by RD and CS, 90 ns data-access and 75 ns bus-release times for wait-state-free CPU read cycles, and a complete on-chip track/hold and clock. The 883B MIL-STD screening guarantees operation across the full -55C to +125C military temperature range, with hermetic CERDIP packaging for high-reliability environments.
The MAX172 uses a ratiometric successive-approximation architecture with an internal buried-zap reference ladder and self-calibrating comparator, achieving guaranteed 12-bit linearity over temperature. It accepts a 0V to 5V unipolar analog input scaled to the +5V analog supply, and the parallel data bus simplifies interface to 8-bit and 16-bit microprocessors without external glue logic.
Typical applications include military and aerospace data acquisition systems, process-control instrumentation, portable battery-powered measurement, and industrial sensor signal conditioning. In each case, the combination of low power, fast bus access times, and 883B screening makes the part well-suited to harsh-environment or long-life programs.
When designing with this ADC, the analog input impedance and source-impedance drive requirements must be respected: the MAX172 requires a low-source-impedance (under a few hundred ohms) input buffer or low-pass RC, and the +5V AVdd must be properly decoupled to minimize conversion noise. Designers should also evaluate using the surface-mount / industrial-grade MAX172 family members for cost-sensitive designs not requiring MIL-STD-883B screening.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, MIL-STD drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet, helping engineers evaluate the MAX172BMRG/883B for next-generation military data-acquisition designs.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX172BMRG/883B — 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 MAX172BMRG/883B (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Operating Temperature, Sampling Rate, Screening Level.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MAX172AMRG/883B
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX172CMRG/883B
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX164BMRG/883B
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$118.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX172BMRG/883B Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 12 bits |
| Sampling Rate | 100 ksps |
| Architecture | Successive Approximation (SAR) |
| Input Voltage Range | 0 V to 5 V (unipolar) |
| Data Bus Width | 12-bit parallel |
| Data Access Time | 90 ns |
| Bus Release Time | 75 ns |
| Input Type | Single-ended, unipolar |
| Package Type | CERDIP-24 (RG) |
| Pins | 24 |
| Operating Temperature | -55 C to +125 C (MIL-STD-883B) |
| Screening Level | Military (MIL-STD-883B) |
| Mounting Type | Through-Hole |
MAX172BMRG/883B Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VSS — Digital ground |
| Pin 2 | AIN — Analog input |
| Pin 3 | AVSS — Analog ground |
| Pin 4 | AVDD — Analog +5V supply |
| Pin 5 | VREF — Reference voltage (internal buried-zap) |
| Pin 6 | MODE — Mode selection input |
| Pin 7 | STATUS — Conversion status output |
| Pin 8 | RD — Read input (active low) |
| Pin 9 | CS — Chip select (active low) |
| Pin 10 | WR — Write / start conversion (active low) |
| Pin 11 | D0 — Data bit 0 (LSB) |
| Pin 12 | D1 — Data bit 1 |
| Pin 13 | D2 — Data bit 2 |
| Pin 14 | D3 — Data bit 3 |
| Pin 15 | D4 — Data bit 4 |
| Pin 16 | D5 — Data bit 5 |
| Pin 17 | D6 — Data bit 6 |
| Pin 18 | D7 — Data bit 7 |
| Pin 19 | D8 — Data bit 8 |
| Pin 20 | D9 — Data bit 9 |
| Pin 21 | D10 — Data bit 10 |
| Pin 22 | D11 (MSB) — Data bit 11 (MSB) |
| Pin 23 | DVDD — Digital +5V supply |
| Pin 24 | [DATA_NEEDED: specific pin name] — [DATA_NEEDED: pin 24 designation - verify against datasheet] |
Typical Applications
MAX172BMRG/883B is suitable for 6 applications: Military Data Acquisition Systems, Aerospace Telemetry & Avionics, Process-Control Instrumentation, Portable Battery-Powered Measurement, Sensor Signal Conditioning for Harsh Environment, Test & Measurement Instrumentation.
Military Data Acquisition Systems
The MAX172BMRG/883B's MIL-STD-883B screening, -55C to +125C operating range, and hermetic CERDIP-24 package make it a primary choice for military data-acquisition front ends. Its 12-bit 100 ksps SAR architecture delivers the throughput needed for multi-channel sensor multiplexed telemetry, while the 90 ns / 75 ns parallel bus access and release times let the ADC sit directly on a 16-bit data bus without wait states. Why this part fits: only /883B screened 12-bit 100 ksps ADCs in a military-grade ceramic DIP are common, and the MAX172 is the long-running benchmark for that role. Circuit role: the MAX172 sits between the analog signal-conditioning chain and the CPU/DSP, with the analog input buffered and the digital bus tied to CS/RD.
Recommended
Aerospace Telemetry & Avionics
In aerospace telemetry pods and avionics line-replaceable units (LRUs), the MAX172BMRG/883B provides 12-bit at 100 ksps conversion of vibration, pressure, and temperature channels into the main flight computer. The /883B screening and ceramic CERDIP-24 package handle the thermal-cycling, shock, and long-life requirements of DO-160 / MIL-HDBK-454. Why it fits: 883B screening, single +5V supply, and a directly bus-mappable interface eliminate the need for glue logic. Compared to a switching ADC, the SAR architecture avoids clock-noise coupling into sensitive RF/MW sections; the analog supply decoupling network recommended by the datasheet is critical in mixed-signal avionic boards.
Recommended
Process-Control Instrumentation
Industrial process-control racks and remote sensor-interface units (SIUs) used in hazardous-area plants use MIL-grade ADCs to survive temperature extremes and long service intervals. The MAX172BMRG/883B's parallel bus interfaces to legacy 8051/68k processor cards used in legacy process controllers, while its 12-bit resolution covers most 4-20 mA loop reconstruction needs. Why it fits: parallel-bus compatibility reduces design risk in plants with constrained processor options; /883B screening extends mean-time-between-failure well beyond commercial-grade parts. The ADCs typically feed 4-20 mA output stages using front-end op-amps and back-end isolation barriers.
Recommended
Portable Battery-Powered Measurement
Handheld military radios, fielded test sets, and battery-powered standoff instrumentation benefit from the MAX172's low-power CMOS SAR core combined with /883B screening. A 12-bit 100 ksps SAR ADC running on a few milliamps from a +5V rail extends mission time on field radios and soldier-carried sensors. Why it fits: the SAR core's power scales with throughput so unused bandwidth becomes off-time, lowering average drain; the part powers up cleanly on battery hot-swap thanks to the on-chip calibration. Designers commonly pair the MAX172 with a low-power MCU and ruggedized front end.
Recommended
Sensor Signal Conditioning for Harsh Environment
Pressure, strain-gauge, and accelerometer front ends in MIL-spec environments use the MAX172BMRG/883B for digitizing bridge outputs, RTD voltages, and accelerometer signals. Its single-ended 0-5V input accepts the common industrial sensor signal levels directly with a low-offset op-amp front end, and its /883B screening certifies that calibration holds at the temperature extremes. Why it fits: ratiometric operation combined with the on-chip buried-zap reference eliminates the need for an external precision reference, saving PCB area and BOM cost; the parallel bus simplifies snapshot reads at deterministic intervals.
Recommended
Test & Measurement Instrumentation
Bench instruments, data loggers, and laboratory DAQs that must operate over extended temperature ranges or ship into MIL programs use the MAX172BMRG/883B as their primary 12-bit / 100 ksps channel. The fast bus access time (90 ns) allows the host processor to stream samples into memory without DMA overhead, while the 883B screening keeps the design reusable across commercial and military variants of the same instrument family. Why it fits: pin-compatibility with non-883B members of the MAX172 family (MAX172ACNG+, MAX172BCNG+) lets designers fit the same PCB for both Mil-spec and commercial SKUs, reducing inventory variants.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX172BMRG/883B — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX172AMRG/883B | MAX164BMRG/883B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package | CERDIP-24 (RG) | CERDIP-24 (RG) - same | CERDIP-24 (RG) - same |
| Brand | Maxim Integrated (Analog Devices) | Maxim Integrated (Analog Devices) | Maxim Integrated (Analog Devices) |
| Resolution | 12 bits | 12 bits | 12 bits |
| Sampling Rate | 100 ksps | 100 ksps | 125 ksps |
| Input Range | 0 V to 5 V | 0 V to 5 V | 0 V to 5 V |
| Operating Temperature | -55 C to +125 C (MIL) | -55 C to +125 C (MIL) | -55 C to +125 C (MIL) |
| Screening Level | MIL-STD-883B | MIL-STD-883B | MIL-STD-883B |
| Bus Interface | Parallel 12-bit, 90/75 ns access | Parallel 12-bit | Parallel 12-bit |
Key Differentiators
- MIL-STD-883B screening in a hermetic ceramic DIP (vs MAX172BCNG+ (plastic PDIP-24 industrial grade))
- Wait-state-free parallel bus interface (vs AD7572JN12 (12-bit 200 ns ADC))
- Internal buried-zap reference - no external reference required (vs MAX162BCNG+)
Design Notes
Decouple AVDD (analog +5V) and DVDD (digital +5V) separately with 10uF tantalum + 0.1uF ceramic caps placed within 5 mm of the package pins to prevent digital switching noise from corrupting conversion results. [DATA_NEEDED: datasheet's exact bypass recommendation] In mixed-signal military boards, route star-ground returns separately for AVSS and DVSS back to the regulator.
Buffer the analog input with a low-offset, low-noise op-amp (e.g., MAX150AEWP+) since the SAR input sampling transients demand a low-impedance source. Place the input RC low-pass filter within 10 mm of the AIN pin to suppress out-of-band interference common in fielded MIL environments.
MIL-STD-883B ceramic DIPs are hermetic and should be handled at grounded workstations to avoid ESD damage prior to soldering. Verify the lot date code and traceability certificate with each shipment; counterfeit /883B parts are a documented risk in long-lifecycle Mil-Aero programs. For initial prototypes, request a factory-traceable Certified Test Report (CTR).
Compliance Information
MIL-STD-883B screened CERDIP parts are typically non-RoHS due to ceramic/metal construction; verify RoHS/lead-free status with the manufacturer for specific date codes. AEC-Q100 does not apply - this is a military/aerospace qualified part, not automotive. Conflict-mineral compliance assumed per Maxim Integrated supplier declarations.
