Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1792EUA18/V+T

Overview

MAX1792EUA18/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 500mA low-dropout linear regulator with preset 1.8V output, operating from +2.5V to +5.5V input, featuring 130mV dropout at full load, ±1% output voltage accuracy over temperature, and integrated active-low open-drain reset with 4ms timeout. It delivers stable power to core logic rails in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1792EUA18/V+T datasheet, MAX1792EUA18/V+T pinout, MAX1792EUA18/V+T application, or MAX1792EUA18/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 500mA output under 130mV dropout, automotive-grade qualification (-40°C to +85°C), low 80µA ground current independent of load, and dual-mode operation (preset or adjustable output) via the SET pin.

Technical Context

The MAX1792EUA18/V+T employs an internal PMOS pass transistor with 0.25Ω R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout and eliminating base-drive current draw typical of PNP regulators. Its error amplifier compares a 1.25V reference against feedback from either internal resistors (for preset 1.8V mode) or an external divider connected to the SET pin.

Dual Mode™ logic selects regulation path based on SET voltage: below 50mV enables factory-trimmed 1.8V output; above 100mV enables adjustable mode (1.25V–5.0V). The device integrates thermal shutdown at +170°C with 20°C hysteresis, short-circuit protection, and in-regulation current limiting up to 1.6A.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX1792EUA18/V+T is housed in an 8-pin Power-µMAX package (U8E+2 outline) with exposed thermal pad (EP) on underside, rated for 1.3W continuous dissipation at +70°C ambient. Soldering EP and GND to PCB ground plane is mandatory for thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout linear regulator applications.

Compared with TPS79918DRVR and MCP1826T-1802E/DB, the MAX1792EUA18/V+T uniquely combines automotive qualification, integrated reset with programmable timeout, and ultra-low dropout in a thermally enhanced Power-µMAX package - making it the only option among the three qualified for safety-critical automotive subsystems requiring guaranteed 500mA delivery down to 1.93V input.

Availability

MAX1792EUA18/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, industrial handheld terminals, and medical portable monitors requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q100 compliance, extended temperature operation, and low-noise 1.8V regulation.

Supply support for MAX1792EUA18/V+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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX1792 belongs to Maxim's low-dropout linear regulator product line, designed specifically for battery-powered and space-constrained applications demanding high accuracy, low quiescent current, and robust protection features in miniature packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for the MAX1792EUA18/V+T?

The MAX1792EUA18/V+T supports an absolute maximum input voltage of +6V on the IN pin, but its specified operating range is +2.5V to +5.5V. Operation beyond +5.5V risks violating absolute maximum ratings and may cause permanent damage. For reliable 1.8V output, VIN must remain ≥1.93V (1.8V + 130mV dropout) across all load and temperature conditions.

Does the MAX1792EUA18/V+T require external components to operate in preset 1.8V mode?

Yes, the MAX1792EUA18/V+T requires two external capacitors for stable operation in preset 1.8V mode: a 1µF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND, and a 3.3µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor between OUT and GND. The SET pin must be connected directly to GND to enable factory-trimmed 1.8V regulation - no resistors are needed for this configuration.

How does the reset output (RST) function on the MAX1792EUA18/V+T?

The RST pin on the MAX1792EUA18/V+T is an open-drain, active-low output that asserts low when VOUT drops below 93% of 1.8V (i.e., 1.674V) and remains low for a minimum of 4ms after VOUT recovers above threshold. To generate a logic-high signal, a pullup resistor (e.g., 100kΩ to OUT) is required. During shutdown, RST is forced low regardless of VOUT level.

Is the MAX1792EUA18/V+T pin-compatible with other MAX1792 variants?

Yes, all MAX1792 variants including MAX1792EUA18/V+T share identical Power-µMAX-8 (U8E+2) packaging and pinout. The /V+T suffix denotes automotive qualification and tape-and-reel packaging, but electrical connections, thermal pad layout, and footprint are fully interchangeable with non-automotive versions like MAX1792EUA18+.

What thermal design considerations apply to the MAX1792EUA18/V+T?

The MAX1792EUA18/V+T requires soldering both the GND pin and the exposed thermal pad (EP) to a large PCB copper area or internal ground plane to achieve safe junction temperatures. Without proper thermal coupling, power dissipation is limited to ~0.5W. With adequate heatsinking, the device sustains 1.3W at +70°C ambient - critical for 500mA loads with >2.5V input-output differential.