16 I/O lines for pin-constrained designs
The MAX7311AUG+ is a 16-bit I²C/SMBus GPIO expander from Analog Devices, designed to add digital I/O to systems where the host MCU or SoC has run out of pins. It communicates over a 400 kHz I²C or SMBus interface, allowing two wires to control up to 16 independent push-pull I/O lines. Each I/O pin can source 31 mA or sink 43 mA, enough to drive indicator LEDs directly without a transistor buffer — the sink current is higher because LEDs are typically cathode-driven. The push-pull output stage eliminates the external pull-up resistors that open-drain expanders require.
The tube packaging is typical for prototype and low-volume builds; high-volume orders often switch to tape-and-reel, so confirm the packing option at RFQ.
POR and interrupt — two features that simplify firmware
The built-in Power-On Reset (POR) forces all I/O pins to a known state (high-impedance inputs) when the supply crosses the threshold, preventing output glitches during power-up. This matters for systems where an uncontrolled output could energize a relay or motor driver prematurely. The interrupt output (INT) asserts when any input pin changes state, allowing the host MCU to sleep between events instead of polling the I²C bus. In battery-powered sensor nodes, this can cut the average current draw from hundreds of microamps to single-digit microamps.
Active lifecycle and compliance
ROHS3 compliant, with no exempt substances, so it clears global RoHS requirements without a compliance gap. Sourced through authorized and independent distribution channels.