Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated LM4041BIX3-1.2

Overview

LM4041BIX3-1.2 from Maxim Integrated is a precision 1.225V two-terminal shunt voltage reference in SC70-3 package, featuring 0.2% initial accuracy, 100ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, 60µA–12mA operating current range, and 20µVRMS wideband noise (10Hz–10kHz). It serves as a stable reference in portable battery-powered systems requiring minimal board space and low quiescent current.

For engineers reviewing the LM4041BIX3-1.2 datasheet, LM4041BIX3-1.2 pinout, LM4041BIX3-1.2 application, or LM4041BIX3-1.2 equivalent, key selection criteria include shunt reference stability under capacitive loads, guaranteed operation across –40°C to +85°C, no external capacitor requirement, and compatibility with micropower analog signal chains in space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The LM4041BIX3-1.2 implements a bandgap-based shunt architecture that maintains a fixed 1.225V reverse breakdown voltage across its terminals when biased with 60µA–12mA cathode-to-anode current. Its BiCMOS process enables low dynamic impedance (≤1.5Ω at 1mA) and stable regulation without output capacitance.

It tolerates any capacitive load and exhibits ±15ppm/°C typical temperature coefficient over –40°C to +85°C. Pin 3 is unconnected (N.C.) or tied to pin 2; the device functions as a precision zener-like element with forward conduction capability up to 10mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM4041BIX3-1.2 is housed in a 3-pin SC70-3 surface-mount package (1.8mm × 1.8mm), 50% smaller than SOT23-3. Pin 3 must be left floating or connected to pin 2 per datasheet specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLVH431ACDBVR and MAX6002EUR+T, the LM4041BIX3-1.2 delivers exact 1.225V output with optimized micropower performance down to 60µA, SC70-3 footprint, and guaranteed stability without external capacitance - making it the most direct fit for space- and current-sensitive shunt reference roles.

Availability

LM4041BIX3-1.2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, notebook computer power monitoring, industrial process transmitters, and smartphone battery fuel gauging requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LM4041BIX3-1.2 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 (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, medical, communications, and consumer applications.

The LM4041 product line delivers improved precision micropower shunt voltage references targeting space-constrained, battery-operated, and high-accuracy measurement systems where stability, low noise, and zero-output-capacitor operation are critical.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the LM4041BIX3-1.2 over temperature?

The LM4041BIX3-1.2 has a guaranteed initial accuracy of ±0.2% at +25°C and a maximum temperature coefficient of 100ppm/°C. Over the full –40°C to +85°C range, its total output voltage tolerance is ±0.85%, calculated as ±0.2% ± (100ppm/°C × 65°C). This value is confirmed in the datasheet's Note 2 and applies specifically to the B-grade LM4041BIX3-1.2.

Can the LM4041BIX3-1.2 operate without an external output capacitor?

Yes, the LM4041BIX3-1.2 is designed to be stable with any capacitive load and does not require an external output capacitor. This is verified in the Applications Information section and Typical Operating Characteristics (Figure LM4041-08), which shows stable impedance vs. frequency behavior from 1Hz to 1MHz with C_OUT = 0 and C_OUT = 1µF. The LM4041BIX3-1.2 achieves this via internal compensation and low dynamic impedance.

What is the function of Pin 3 on the LM4041BIX3-1.2?

Pin 3 of the LM4041BIX3-1.2 is labeled N.C. (No Connect) and must either be left floating or connected directly to Pin 2 (cathode). Per the Pin Description table and top-view diagram, this pin is not internally bonded and serves no active function. Connecting it to Pin 2 avoids potential floating-node noise or ESD susceptibility, while leaving it open is also fully compliant - both configurations are validated in the LM4041BIX3-1.2 datasheet.

How does the LM4041BIX3-1.2 compare to the LM4041AIM3-1.2?

The LM4041BIX3-1.2 and LM4041AIM3-1.2 share identical electrical specifications except for initial accuracy (0.2% vs. 0.1%) and package (SC70-3 vs. SOT23-3). Both operate from –40°C to +85°C with 100ppm/°C tempco and 1.225V output. The LM4041BIX3-1.2 offers 50% smaller footprint than the AIM3 version, making it preferable where board area is constrained - though the AIM3 may be selected when higher accuracy is required and SOT23-3 is acceptable.

What is the minimum operating current for stable regulation of the LM4041BIX3-1.2?

The LM4041BIX3-1.2 requires a minimum shunt current of 60µA to maintain stable 1.225V regulation, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Minimum Operating Current (I_RMIN)" for LM4041B grade. This value is guaranteed over –40°C to +85°C and is validated by the Reverse Characteristics curve (Figure LM4041-01), where regulation is maintained above the 60µA knee point across temperature.