MAX4172ESA Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX4172ESA is a current sense amplifier integrated circuit manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. This single-circuit current sense amplifier operates across a wide supply voltage range of 3V to 32V and is housed in an 8-SOIC surface mount package. The device is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable equivalent and substitute parts essential for ongoing design support and procurement planning. Current sense amplifiers in this category are used for precision current measurement and monitoring applications across industrial, automotive, and power management systems.

Substiute Parts

MAX4172ESA

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 32507MAX4172ESA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX4172ESA+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2781MAX4172ESA+ Datasheet

DirectRFQ

OP281GSZ-REEL7

Analog Devices Inc.In Stock: 1215OP281GSZ-REEL7 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MAX4172ESA is determined by strict alignment of electrical and mechanical parameters within the current sense amplifier category. The primary substitution criteria are:

Electrical Compatibility Parameters:

• Amplifier type classification (current sense functionality)
• Bandwidth performance (-3dB bandwidth: 800 kHz minimum)
• Supply voltage range (3V to 32V operation required)
• Input bias current (50 µA maximum)
• Input offset voltage (1 mV maximum)
• Output current capability (1.75 mA per channel minimum)
• Operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C)

Mechanical Compatibility Parameters:

• Package type: 8-SOIC surface mount
• Physical dimensions: 0.154" width (3.90mm)

The MAX4172ESA+ is a direct equivalent manufactured by the same supplier (Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated) with identical electrical specifications and package configuration. The primary distinction is product status (active versus obsolete) and packaging format (tube versus original specification).

The OP281GSZ-REEL7 is listed as a manufacturer-recommended substitute. However, this device is classified as a general-purpose amplifier rather than a dedicated current sense amplifier, operates with reduced supply voltage range (2.7V to 12V), and contains two circuits instead of one. This part does not meet the strict electrical parameter requirements for direct substitution in current sense applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Substitution (Recommended):

The MAX4172ESA+ is the appropriate selection for direct replacement of the MAX4172ESA. Both devices are manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated and share identical electrical specifications across all critical parameters: 800 kHz bandwidth, 50 µA input bias current, 1 mV input offset voltage, and 3V to 32V supply range. The MAX4172ESA+ maintains active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. The device is ROHS3 compliant, addressing regulatory requirements that may not apply to the obsolete MAX4172ESA. Both parts are housed in the same 8-SOIC package with identical physical dimensions, requiring no PCB layout modifications.

For Alternative Consideration (Limited Compatibility):

The OP281GSZ-REEL7 is not suitable as a direct substitute for current sense applications. The device operates with a maximum supply voltage of 12V, which is insufficient for the MAX4172ESA's 32V maximum specification. The OP281GSZ-REEL7 is a general-purpose amplifier with dual circuits, whereas the MAX4172ESA is a dedicated single-circuit current sense amplifier. The bandwidth of 105 kHz is substantially lower than the required 800 kHz. Selection of the OP281GSZ-REEL7 would require complete circuit redesign and is not recommended for direct replacement scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MAX4172ESA+ be used as a direct replacement for the MAX4172ESA?

A: Yes. The MAX4172ESA+ is manufactured by the same supplier and provides identical electrical performance across all specified parameters. The primary differences are product status (active versus obsolete) and packaging format (tube). No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the significance of the MAX4172ESA being classified as obsolete?

A: Obsolete status indicates the device is no longer in active production. The MAX4172ESA+ provides continuity for designs requiring current sense amplifier functionality with identical specifications. Existing inventory of the MAX4172ESA remains available, but the MAX4172ESA+ is recommended for new designs and long-term supply assurance.

Q: Why is the OP281GSZ-REEL7 not recommended as a substitute?

A: The OP281GSZ-REEL7 is a general-purpose amplifier, not a current sense amplifier. It operates with a maximum supply voltage of 12V compared to the MAX4172ESA's 32V maximum. The bandwidth is 105 kHz versus 800 kHz. The device contains two circuits instead of one. These differences make it unsuitable for direct substitution in current sense applications.

Q: Are there any compliance differences between the MAX4172ESA and MAX4172ESA+?

A: Yes. The MAX4172ESA is RoHS non-compliant, while the MAX4172ESA+ is ROHS3 compliant. Both devices are REACH unaffected and classified under ECCN EAR99. If RoHS compliance is required for your application, the MAX4172ESA+ is the appropriate selection.

Q: Do the MAX4172ESA and MAX4172ESA+ require different PCB footprints?

A: No. Both devices use the 8-SOIC package with identical physical dimensions (0.154" width, 3.90mm). The PCB footprint and layout remain unchanged.

Q: What is the difference between the packaging formats (tube versus original specification)?

A: The MAX4172ESA+ is supplied in tube packaging, while the original MAX4172ESA specification does not specify packaging format. Tube packaging is standard for surface mount components and does not affect electrical performance or PCB assembly compatibility.

Q: Can the MAX4172ESA operate at supply voltages above 12V?

A: Yes. The MAX4172ESA is rated for supply voltages up to 32V. The OP281GSZ-REEL7, by contrast, is limited to 12V maximum. This is a critical distinction for applications requiring higher supply voltages.