MAX4173FESA Current Sense Amplifier Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX4173FESA is a current sense amplifier integrated circuit manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. This linear amplifier operates as a single-circuit current sense device in an 8-SOIC surface mount package. The device is classified as obsolete product status, which necessitates identification of equivalent substitute components for ongoing design support and procurement continuity. Current sense amplifiers are critical components in power management, battery monitoring, and load measurement applications where precise current detection is required across supply voltage ranges of 3V to 28V.

Substiute Parts

MAX4173FESA

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 4655MAX4173FESA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX4173FESA+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1512MAX4173FESA+ Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MAX4173FESA is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Electrical Equivalence Criteria:

• Amplifier type classification: Current Sense
• Number of circuits: 1
• Bandwidth specification: 1.4 MHz
• Input bias current: 700 µA
• Input offset voltage: 300 µV
• Supply current: 420 µA
• Supply voltage range: 3V to 28V minimum and maximum
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to 85°C

Mechanical Equivalence Criteria:

• Package type: 8-SOIC
• Physical dimensions: 0.154" width (3.90mm)
• Mounting technology: Surface Mount

The MAX4173FESA+ is identified as a direct substitute based on identical electrical specifications and mechanical packaging. The primary distinction between these parts is product status and compliance certification, not functional or physical characteristics.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Obsolete Part Replacement: The MAX4173FESA is designated as obsolete product status. The MAX4173FESA+ is the active equivalent from the same manufacturer with identical electrical and mechanical specifications. Selection of MAX4173FESA+ is appropriate for new designs, redesigns, and procurement of replacement inventory.

For Compliance Requirements: The MAX4173FESA is RoHS non-compliant. The MAX4173FESA+ is ROHS3 compliant. Applications subject to RoHS directives or customer specifications requiring RoHS compliance must use MAX4173FESA+.

For Supply Chain Continuity: The MAX4173FESA has 4566 pieces in stock (obsolete status). The MAX4173FESA+ has 1501 pieces in stock (active status). For long-term availability and supply assurance, MAX4173FESA+ is the recommended selection.

For Packaging and Handling: The MAX4173FESA+ is supplied in tube packaging, which is standard for active production components. Both parts share identical moisture sensitivity level (MSL 1 - Unlimited), indicating no special storage or handling requirements beyond standard ESD precautions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX4173FESA+ be used as a direct replacement for MAX4173FESA in existing designs?

A: Yes. The MAX4173FESA+ is electrically and mechanically identical to MAX4173FESA across all specified parameters including bandwidth, bias current, offset voltage, supply current, supply voltage range, temperature range, and package dimensions. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the difference between MAX4173FESA and MAX4173FESA+?

A: The primary differences are product status (obsolete vs. active), RoHS compliance (non-compliant vs. ROHS3 compliant), and packaging format (unspecified vs. tube). All electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Why should I select MAX4173FESA+ over MAX4173FESA?

A: MAX4173FESA+ is the active production part with current availability, RoHS3 compliance certification, and ongoing manufacturer support. MAX4173FESA is obsolete and should not be selected for new designs or long-term applications.

Q: Are there any thermal or performance differences between these parts?

A: No. Both parts operate across the identical temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) and have identical supply current specifications (420 µA). Thermal performance and power dissipation characteristics are equivalent.

Q: What is the significance of the "+" suffix in MAX4173FESA+?

A: The "+" suffix indicates the active production variant with current RoHS compliance certification. This is standard Analog Devices nomenclature for distinguishing compliant versions of legacy part numbers.

Q: Can I mix MAX4173FESA and MAX4173FESA+ in the same production batch?

A: Both parts are functionally equivalent and can be used interchangeably in circuit applications. However, for consistency in compliance documentation and supply chain management, using a single part number (MAX4173FESA+) is recommended for production designs.

Q: What are the key electrical parameters that define substitution compatibility?

A: Substitution compatibility is determined by: 1.4 MHz bandwidth, 700 µA input bias current, 300 µV input offset voltage, 420 µA supply current, 3V to 28V supply voltage range, and -40°C to 85°C operating temperature. Any deviation in these parameters disqualifies a part as a direct substitute.

Q: Is the 8-SOIC package pinout identical between these parts?

A: Yes. Both parts use the 8-SOIC package with 0.154" width (3.90mm). The package designation and physical dimensions are identical, ensuring PCB footprint compatibility without layout modifications.