Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1792EUA50-T

Overview

MAX1792EUA50-T from Maxim Integrated is a 500mA low-dropout linear regulator with ±1% output voltage accuracy, preset to 5.0V, operating from +2.5V to +5.5V input and featuring 130mV dropout at full load. It integrates an active-low open-drain reset output with 4ms timeout, 0.1µA shutdown current, and thermal/short-circuit protection - deployed in portable battery-powered systems including cellular phones and USB hubs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1792EUA50-T datasheet, MAX1792EUA50-T pinout, MAX1792EUA50-T application, or MAX1792EUA50-T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 500mA output under 130mV dropout, 5.0V fixed output with ±1% accuracy over temperature, reset timing behavior, thermal shutdown threshold at +170°C, and compatibility with 3.3µF low-ESR output capacitors for stable operation.

Technical Context

The MAX1792EUA50-T uses an internal PMOS pass transistor (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.25Ω) enabling low ground current (80µA typ. at light load, 110µA at 500mA) independent of output load - critical for battery runtime. Its Dual Mode™ architecture selects between factory-trimmed 5.0V output (SET tied to GND) and adjustable mode via external resistor divider, with V_SET threshold at 1.25V ±1.5%.

Reset functionality monitors V_OUT against 93% of nominal (4.65V), asserting RST low until V_OUT stabilizes and holds high-impedance for ≥4ms post-regulation. Thermal protection activates at +170°C with 20°C hysteresis, cycling output during sustained overload without damage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX1792EUA50-T is housed in an 8-pin Power-µMAX package (U8E+2 outline) with exposed thermal pad (EP) on underside - requires soldering EP and GND pins to PCB ground plane for thermal performance and 1.3W continuous dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS76350DBVR and MCP1703T-5002E/MB, the MAX1792EUA50-T uniquely combines 500mA capability, 130mV dropout, integrated 4ms-reset, and thermal cycling - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-powered systems needing both precision regulation and autonomous fault handling.

Availability

MAX1792EUA50-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, cellular telephones, and USB hubs requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX1792EUA50-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 is a semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, sensing, and communications - acquired by Analog Devices in 2021 but maintaining distinct product branding and technical support infrastructure.

The MAX1792 series was designed specifically for portable battery-operated equipment demanding high accuracy, ultra-low quiescent current, and integrated protection - targeting PDA, smartphone, and notebook subsystem power rails.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for the MAX1792EUA50-T?

The MAX1792EUA50-T supports an absolute maximum input voltage of +6V applied to IN or SHDN pins, but its specified operational range is +2.5V to +5.5V. Exceeding +5.5V may trigger undervoltage lockout or degrade long-term reliability. For continuous operation, VIN must remain ≥ VOUT + dropout (≥5.13V for 500mA load) to maintain regulation.

Does the MAX1792EUA50-T require external components to operate in fixed 5.0V mode?

No, the MAX1792EUA50-T operates in fixed 5.0V mode with only two mandatory external components: a 1µF ceramic capacitor from IN to GND and a 3.3µF low-ESR capacitor from OUT to GND. The SET pin must be connected to GND - no resistors or additional circuitry are needed, as the 5.0V reference is factory-trimmed and internally connected.

How does the reset output (RST) behave during shutdown of the MAX1792EUA50-T?

When SHDN is pulled low, the MAX1792EUA50-T enters shutdown mode and forces RST to a hard logic-low state - independent of VOUT level. This differs from normal operation, where RST asserts low only when VOUT falls below 93% of nominal (4.65V). During shutdown, RST remains low until SHDN returns high and VOUT re-stabilizes above threshold for ≥4ms.

Can the MAX1792EUA50-T sustain 500mA output continuously without thermal shutdown?

Yes, the MAX1792EUA50-T can sustain 500mA continuously if thermal design limits junction temperature to ≤+150°C. With proper PCB layout - including soldered EP pad and GND connected to ≥1 in² copper area - the device achieves ~65°C/W thermal resistance. At VIN = 5.5V and VOUT = 5.0V (0.5V differential), power dissipation is 250mW, well below the 1.3W package limit.

What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad (EP) on the MAX1792EUA50-T package?

The exposed thermal pad (EP) on the MAX1792EUA50-T is a non-electrical thermal interface that must be soldered to the PCB ground plane to conduct heat away from the die. It reduces thermal resistance significantly - enabling the 1.3W power dissipation rating. Leaving EP unconnected or floating degrades thermal performance and risks premature thermal shutdown even at moderate loads.