Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated LM4040AEM3-3.0

Overview

LM4040AEM3-3.0 from Maxim Integrated is a precision 3.000V two-terminal shunt voltage reference in SC70-3 package, featuring 0.1% initial accuracy, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and guaranteed operation from –40°C to +125°C. It delivers stable reverse breakdown voltage with 60μA to 15mA shunt current capability and requires no external capacitor for stability-ideal for space-constrained battery-powered instrumentation and industrial sensor front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the LM4040AEM3-3.0 datasheet, LM4040AEM3-3.0 pinout, LM4040AEM3-3.0 application, or LM4040AEM3-3.0 equivalent, key selection criteria include its ultra-small SC70 footprint, tight tolerance over extended temperature range, low dynamic impedance (≤0.8Ω), wideband noise of 45µVRMS (10Hz–10kHz), and compatibility with capacitive loads without oscillation risk.

Technical Context

The LM4040AEM3-3.0 uses bandgap-based shunt regulation to maintain a precise 3.000V reverse breakdown voltage across its cathode-anode terminals. Its laser-trimmed internal resistor network ensures 0.1% initial accuracy at +25°C, with temperature drift bounded by ±100ppm/°C over –40°C to +125°C.

It operates as a two-terminal device requiring only a series current-setting resistor; no forward biasing or external compensation is needed. Dynamic impedance remains ≤0.8Ω at 1mA, enabling stable regulation under load transients up to 15mA while maintaining <1.0mV voltage shift across the full operating current range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM4040AEM3-3.0 is housed in a 3-pin SC70 surface-mount package (1.8mm × 1.8mm), 50% smaller than SOT23. Pin 3 is NC and must be left unconnected or tied to pin 2.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar shunt voltage reference applications.

Compared with TLVH431ACDBVR and MAX6003EUR+T, the LM4040AEM3-3.0 offers the tightest initial accuracy (0.1%) in a fixed 3.0V SC70 solution, with guaranteed performance across –40°C to +125°C-making it optimal for calibrated instrumentation where reference stability dominates design margin.

Availability

LM4040AEM3-3.0 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, industrial process transmitters, and automotive cabin control units requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for LM4040AEM3-3.0 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated is a semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer applications.

The LM4040 product line delivers precision shunt voltage references optimized for space-constrained, high-accuracy systems requiring minimal external components and guaranteed operation across extended temperature ranges.

FAQ

What is the exact output voltage tolerance of LM4040AEM3-3.0 at +25°C?

The LM4040AEM3-3.0 has a nominal output voltage of 3.000V with a guaranteed tolerance of ±3.0mV (±0.1%) at +25°C, corresponding to a range of 2.997V to 3.003V. This specification is laser-trimmed and tested during production, and applies specifically to the 'A' grade variant in the LM4040AEM3-3.0 part number.

Does LM4040AEM3-3.0 require an external capacitor for stability?

No, the LM4040AEM3-3.0 does not require an external output capacitor for stability. Its internal design ensures unconditional stability with any capacitive load, including direct connection to ADC reference inputs or large bypass caps. This eliminates layout sensitivity and reduces BOM count compared to many competing shunt references.

What is the minimum operating current for LM4040AEM3-3.0, and how does it affect low-power designs?

The LM4040AEM3-3.0 specifies a minimum operating current (IRMIN) of 67μA maximum at –40°C to +125°C. In practice, stable regulation begins at ≥60μA. This enables use in ultra-low-power applications such as battery-operated IoT sensors, where the device contributes negligible load while maintaining 3.000V reference integrity without wake-up delay or settling issues.

How is pin 3 used on LM4040AEM3-3.0, and what happens if it's left floating?

Pin 3 of the LM4040AEM3-3.0 is designated N.C. (No Connection) and must either be left unconnected or tied directly to pin 2 (anode). Leaving it floating is acceptable per the datasheet, but connecting it to pin 2 improves mechanical robustness and avoids potential ESD coupling. The internal node is unconnected, so no electrical function is affected either way.

What is the long-term stability specification for LM4040AEM3-3.0, and how is it measured?

The LM4040AEM3-3.0 exhibits 120ppm long-term stability after 1000 hours of operation at elevated temperature (typically +125°C). This value represents the maximum expected change in reverse breakdown voltage over time under accelerated stress conditions and is verified during qualification testing-not a statistical mean. It translates to <0.012% drift over 10 years in typical field use.