Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated LM4041CIX3-1.2-T

Overview

LM4041CIX3-1.2-T from Maxim Integrated is a precision 1.225V two-terminal shunt voltage reference in SC70-3 package, with 0.5% initial accuracy, 100ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, and 60µA–12mA operating current range. It serves as a stable voltage reference in portable battery-powered systems where space and low quiescent current are critical.

For engineers reviewing the LM4041CIX3-1.2-T datasheet, LM4041CIX3-1.2-T pinout, LM4041CIX3-1.2-T application, or LM4041CIX3-1.2-T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed -40°C to +85°C operation, no external capacitor requirement, 20µVRMS noise (10Hz–10kHz), and N.C. pin handling per datasheet top-view layout.

Technical Context

The LM4041CIX3-1.2-T implements a bandgap-based shunt reference 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 precise laser-trimmed resistor matching for 0.5% initial accuracy at +25°C.

It exhibits ±15ppm/°C typical temperature coefficient over -40°C to +85°C, with guaranteed 100ppm/°C max drift, and achieves low 20µVRMS wideband noise without output capacitance-stability is maintained across any capacitive load due to inherent dynamic impedance control.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM4041CIX3-1.2-T uses the 3-pin SC70-3 surface-mount package (1.8mm × 1.8mm), 50% smaller than SOT23-3. Pin 3 is unconnected (N.C.) and must be left floating or tied to Pin 2 per datasheet directive.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLVH431ACDBVR and ADR3412ARJZ-R7, LM4041CIX3-1.2-T delivers exact 1.225V output with lowest minimum current (60µA) and smallest SC70-3 footprint-ideal for space- and power-constrained 1.225V reference applications where pin-compatible alternatives do not exist.

Availability

LM4041CIX3-1.2-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, notebook computer power monitoring, and industrial process transmitters requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for LM4041CIX3-1.2-T 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, automotive, communications, and computing markets.

The LM4041 product line delivers micropower shunt voltage references optimized for space-constrained, battery-operated systems requiring stable 1.225V references with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed operating temperature range for LM4041CIX3-1.2-T?

The LM4041CIX3-1.2-T is specified for operation from -40°C to +85°C. This range is confirmed in the Ordering Information table and Absolute Maximum Ratings section of the official datasheet. The "I" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes the industrial temperature grade, distinguishing it from the extended-grade "E" variants rated to +125°C. LM4041CIX3-1.2-T maintains its 0.5% initial accuracy and 100ppm/°C tempco specifications across this full range.

Does LM4041CIX3-1.2-T require an external output capacitor for stability?

No, LM4041CIX3-1.2-T does not require an external output capacitor. Its internal design ensures stability with any capacitive load, including values up to 10µF, as verified in the Typical Operating Characteristics (Figure LM4041-08). This eliminates BOM cost and layout complexity. LM4041CIX3-1.2-T achieves this via low dynamic impedance (0.5–1.5Ω) and inherent frequency compensation-no external capacitor is needed for regulation or transient response.

What is the function of Pin 3 on LM4041CIX3-1.2-T, and how should it be connected?

Pin 3 of LM4041CIX3-1.2-T is labeled N.C. (No Connection) and is not internally bonded. Per the Pin Description and Top View diagram in the datasheet, it must be left floating or connected directly to Pin 2 (cathode). Connecting Pin 3 to Pin 2 is electrically identical to leaving it unconnected and avoids potential noise coupling. LM4041CIX3-1.2-T will not function correctly if Pin 3 is connected to any other node, including supply rails or signal lines.

How does the 0.5% initial accuracy of LM4041CIX3-1.2-T translate to voltage tolerance at +25°C?

At +25°C, the 0.5% initial accuracy of LM4041CIX3-1.2-T corresponds to a ±6.125mV tolerance around its nominal 1.225V output, resulting in a guaranteed range of 1.2189V to 1.2311V. This value is explicitly listed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Reverse Breakdown Voltage" for the LM4041C grade. LM4041CIX3-1.2-T's tolerance is tighter than the D grade (±1.0%) but looser than A (±0.1%) and B (±0.2%) grades, balancing cost and precision for mid-tier applications.

Can LM4041CIX3-1.2-T be used in place of LM4041AIX3-1.2-T or LM4041BIX3-1.2-T?

LM4041CIX3-1.2-T can be substituted for LM4041AIX3-1.2-T or LM4041BIX3-1.2-T only if the application tolerates reduced initial accuracy (0.5% vs. 0.1% or 0.2%). All three share identical SC70-3 package, pinout, temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), and electrical behavior outside initial tolerance. However, LM4041CIX3-1.2-T is not a drop-in replacement where 0.1% or 0.2% accuracy is required for calibration or metrology functions. LM4041CIX3-1.2-T offers cost savings where moderate precision suffices.