The MAX197 multi-range, 12-bit data-acquisition system (DAS) requires only a single +5V supply for operation, yet accepts signals at its analog inputs that may span both above the power-supply rail and below ground. This system provides 8 analog input channels that are independently software programmable for a variety of ranges: ±10V, ±5V, 0V to +10V, or 0V to +5V. This increases effective dynamic range to 14 bits, and provides the user flexibility to interface 4mA-to-20mA, ±12V, and ±15V powered sensors to a single +5V system. In addition, the converter is overvoltage tolerant to ±16.5V; a fault condition on any channel will not affect the conversion result of the selected channel. Other features include a 5MHz bandwidth track/hold, a 100ksps throughput rate, software-selectable internal or external clock and acquisition, 8+4 parallel interface, and an internal 4.096V or an external reference. A hardware SHDN pin and two programmable powerdown modes (STBYPD, FULLPD) are provided for lowcurrent shutdown between conversions. In STBYPD mode, the reference buffer remains active, eliminating start-up delays. The MAX197 employs a standard microprocessor (μP) interface. A three-state data I/O port is configured to operate with 8-bit data buses, and data-access and bus-release timing specifications are compatible with most popular μPs. All logic inputs and outputs are TTL/CMOS compatible. The MAX197 is available in 28-pin DIP, wide SO, SSOP, and ceramic SB packages. For a different combination of ranges (±4V, ±2V, 0V to 4V, 0V to 2V), see the MAX199 data sheet. For 12-bit bus interface, see the MAX196 and MAX198 data sheets.