Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15011ATJ+

Overview

The MAX15011ATJ+ from Maxim Integrated is a 300mA automotive-grade LDO regulator with integrated switched output, operating from 5V to 40V input and surviving 45V load-dump transients. It delivers fixed 5V or adjustable 1.8V–11V LDO output, features independent EN_LDO/EN_SW enables, μP reset with programmable timeout, and internal 0.28Ω n-channel switch with adjustable current limit (100mA typ) and autoretry delay - used in multimedia power supplies for infotainment head units.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15011ATJ+ datasheet, MAX15011ATJ+ pinout, MAX15011ATJ+ application, or MAX15011ATJ+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range, 67μA quiescent current at light loads, dual enable/hold/reset control logic, 300mA LDO output current capability, and 32-pin TQFN-EP (5mm × 5mm) thermal package with exposed pad.

Technical Context

The MAX15011ATJ+ integrates two independent power paths: a low-quiescent-current LDO regulator with feedback-controlled output voltage (via FB_LDO) and a current-limited switched output driven by an internal n-channel MOSFET. Its control architecture includes separate active-high enable inputs (EN_LDO, EN_SW), a hold latch for persistent regulation during enable removal, and a reset output synchronized to LDO startup with user-adjustable timeout via CT capacitor.

Switch operation relies on accurate ILIM-based current sensing and OC_DELAY-programmable blanking time to avoid false overcurrent trips during load transients. Unlike the MAX15009, the MAX15011ATJ+ omits the OVP controller circuitry - eliminating FB_PROT, GATE, SOURCE, and EN_PROT pins - resulting in a simplified 32-pin TQFN footprint shared with MAX15009 but with distinct pin functionality and internal block diagram.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX15011ATJ+ uses a 32-pin thermally enhanced TQFN-EP package (5mm × 5mm, code T3255-4) with exposed pad connected to SGND for thermal dissipation. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet Rev 2 (11/14); MAX15011 excludes OVP-related pins (FB_PROT, GATE, SOURCE, EN_PROT) present on MAX15009.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO-with-switched-output applications.

Compared with MAX15009ATJ+, the MAX15011ATJ+ removes OVP circuitry to reduce pin count and cost while retaining identical LDO performance, switch capability, and automotive qualification. Versus TPS7B8133QDGNRQ1, MAX15011ATJ+ integrates a current-limited switched output and μP reset - eliminating three external components in typical infotainment power trees.

Availability

MAX15011ATJ+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX15011ATJ+ 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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX15011ATJ+ belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for harsh-environment vehicle subsystems needing integrated LDO regulation, fault-protected switching, and robust sequencing control - not general-purpose power conversion.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage the MAX15011ATJ+ can withstand during load-dump events?

The MAX15011ATJ+ is rated to survive load-dump transients up to 45V, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings. This capability is enabled by internal protection circuitry that clamps input stress without requiring external TVS diodes in many automotive 12V system designs. The device operates continuously from 5V to 40V DC input, making it compatible with both standard and heavy-duty vehicle electrical architectures.

Does the MAX15011ATJ+ support adjustable LDO output voltages, and how is it configured?

Yes, the MAX15011ATJ+ supports adjustable LDO output from 1.8V to 11V using the FB_LDO pin. To configure, connect a resistive voltage divider between OUT_LDO and SGND, with the midpoint fed into FB_LDO. For fixed 5V operation, short FB_LDO directly to SGND. The internal reference is 1.235V ±2%, ensuring tight output accuracy across temperature and load conditions in the MAX15011ATJ+.

How does the HOLD function work in the MAX15011ATJ+, and what design benefit does it provide?

The HOLD input in the MAX15011ATJ+ is an active-low latch that captures the state of EN_LDO when asserted. If EN_LDO is high and HOLD is pulled low, the LDO remains enabled even after EN_LDO is removed - preventing unintended shutdown during brief enable signal interruptions. This feature enhances system robustness in electrically noisy automotive environments, such as during engine cranking or relay switching, where the MAX15011ATJ+ maintains regulated power without external supervision.

Can the switched output of the MAX15011ATJ+ drive loads requiring more than 100mA, and what limits its current capacity?

The MAX15011ATJ+ switched output supports up to 300mA continuous current, limited by package thermal dissipation and internal current-sense thresholds. Its factory-set current limit is 170mA (min), adjustable via ILIM resistor from 30mA to 240mA. At 100mA load, dropout is only 36mV (typ), minimizing power loss. For higher currents, thermal derating applies: the 32-pin TQFN package has θ_JA = 29.0°C/W, so sustained 300mA operation requires adequate PCB copper area and airflow to maintain junction temperature below +150°C.

Is the MAX15011ATJ+ pin-compatible with the MAX15009ATJ+, and what are the key functional differences?

The MAX15011ATJ+ shares the same 32-pin TQFN-EP package and pinout as the MAX15009ATJ+, but omits OVP-specific pins (FB_PROT, GATE, SOURCE, EN_PROT). Internally, MAX15011ATJ+ disables the OVP controller block, reducing quiescent current and simplifying layout. Both devices retain identical LDO, switch, reset, and control logic functionality - allowing drop-in replacement where overvoltage protection is implemented externally or not required, preserving PCB design reuse.