Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1792EUA50+T

Overview

MAX1792EUA50+T from Maxim Integrated is a 500mA, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 5.0V output, ±1% accuracy over temperature and load, 130mV dropout at full load, and integrated active-low open-drain reset with 4ms timeout - designed for power rail regulation in portable battery-powered systems such as notebook computers 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, 0.1µA shutdown current, thermal/short-circuit protection, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors (3.3µF).

Technical Context

The MAX1792EUA50+T uses an internal PMOS pass transistor (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.25Ω) to achieve low dropout and load-independent 80–130µA ground current. Its Dual Mode™ architecture selects between factory-trimmed 5.0V output (SET tied to GND) and adjustable mode via external resistor divider.

It integrates a 1.25V reference, error amplifier, thermal shutdown (170°C trip, 20°C hysteresis), current limiting (0.55–1.8A), and open-drain RST output that asserts low when V_OUT falls below 93% of nominal and releases after 4ms delay upon recovery.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1792EUA50+T is housed in an 8-pin Power-µMAX package (U8E+2 outline) with exposed thermal pad (EP) on underside. The package delivers 1.3W continuous power dissipation at +70°C ambient and requires soldering of EP and GND pins to PCB ground plane for optimal thermal performance.

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, MAX1792EUA50+T uniquely combines 500mA delivery, 130mV dropout, integrated 4ms reset, and 0.1µA shutdown - making it the only option among the three qualified for battery-critical, protected 5.0V rail generation in portable computing.

Availability

MAX1792EUA50+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, USB hubs, and cellular telephones requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, 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 (now part of Analog Devices) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX1792 series was designed specifically for portable battery-operated equipment demanding low dropout, ultra-low quiescent current, and integrated protection - targeting PDAs, cellular phones, and notebook computers.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for MAX1792EUA50+T?

The absolute maximum input voltage for MAX1792EUA50+T is +6V on the IN pin, but the recommended operating range is +2.5V to +5.5V. Exceeding +5.5V may trigger undervoltage lockout or degrade reliability. Operation within the specified 2.5V–5.5V window ensures guaranteed 500mA output, ±1% accuracy, and proper reset functionality across temperature.

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

Yes - MAX1792EUA50+T requires only two external capacitors: a 1µF ceramic capacitor from IN to GND and a 3.3µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor from OUT to GND. The SET pin must be connected to GND to select the factory-trimmed 5.0V output; no resistors are needed for fixed-mode operation. The RST pin requires a 100kΩ pullup to OUT if reset signaling is used.

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

During shutdown (SHDN = GND), the RST pin of MAX1792EUA50+T is actively held low regardless of output voltage level. This differs from normal operation, where RST asserts low only when V_OUT drops below 93% of nominal (4.65V) and releases after 4ms. Holding RST low in shutdown provides unambiguous power-fault indication to host controllers during intentional system sleep.

Can MAX1792EUA50+T sustain 500mA output continuously at 5.0V with VIN = 5.2V?

Yes - with VIN = 5.2V and VOUT = 5.0V, the dropout is 200mV, which is above the guaranteed 130mV spec but still within safe operating limits. Power dissipation is (5.2V − 5.0V) × 0.5A = 100mW. Given the 1.3W package rating and proper PCB thermal design (EP and GND soldered to ground plane), continuous 500mA operation is fully supported at this differential.

Is the exposed thermal pad (EP) of MAX1792EUA50+T electrically connected internally?

No - the exposed thermal pad (EP) on the underside of MAX1792EUA50+T is not electrically connected to any internal node. It serves solely as a thermal conduction path. To maximize heat transfer and meet the 1.3W power dissipation rating, EP must be soldered directly to the PCB ground plane using multiple thermal vias, and must be electrically tied to the GND net through the PCB layout - not via the IC's GND pin alone.