What this comparator does on the board
The MAX961ESA+T is a single, high-speed comparator from Maxim Integrated's Beyond-the-Rails™ family. It compares two analog inputs and delivers a CMOS-, TTL-, or complementary-logic-level output with a maximum propagation delay of 7 ns. Built-in 3.5 mV hysteresis prevents output oscillation on slowly changing or noisy input signals without external feedback components. The device operates from a single 2.7 V to 5.5 V supply and is specified over the -40°C to 85°C industrial temperature range.
7 ns propagation delay — timing margin for high-speed threshold detection
The 7 ns maximum propagation delay places this part in the fast-comparator tier, suitable for overcurrent detection, zero-crossing detectors, and clock-recovery circuits where the decision must settle within one or two clock cycles at tens of megahertz. The 3.5 mV built-in hysteresis eliminates the need for external positive-feedback resistors to clean up the switching threshold, saving two passives and one feedback-loop stability calculation.
Supply range and output compatibility
Rated for 2.7 V to 5.5 V single supply, the MAX961ESA+T runs directly from a 5 V rail without a separate analog supply. The output stage drives CMOS, TTL, or complementary logic levels, so it interfaces with most digital inputs without a level shifter. Quiescent current maxes at 11 mA, and input bias current is 15 µA max at 5 V. Input offset voltage is trimmed to 1.5 mV max at 5 V.
Industrial temperature grade and package
The -40°C to 85°C operating range covers factory-floor automation, outdoor telecom cabinets, and engine-bay-adjacent electronics that see thermal cycling but not the full under-hood temperature. The 8-SOIC package is a standard footprint shared by many general-purpose comparators, easing board layout and second-sourcing.
Lifecycle and sourcing
The MAX961ESA+T carries an Active lifecycle status and is ROHS3 compliant.