Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1976AETA160+

Overview

MAX1976AETA160+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator with preset 1.60V output, delivering up to 300mA continuous load current from a +1.62V to +3.6V input supply, featuring 100mV dropout at full load, ±0.5% output voltage accuracy, and a 70ms active-low open-drain RESET output-designed for power management in portable battery-powered systems such as handheld computers and smart phones.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1976AETA160+ datasheet, MAX1976AETA160+ pinout, MAX1976AETA160+ application, or MAX1976AETA160+ equivalent, key selection considerations include guaranteed 300mA output under low-input-voltage conditions (≥1.62V), thermal-overload and short-circuit protection, logic-controlled shutdown, and compatibility with 2mm × 2mm 8-pin TDFN packaging with exposed pad for thermal performance.

Technical Context

The MAX1976AETA160+ uses an internal p-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) = 0.33Ω) enabling low quiescent current independent of load and dropout voltage, with ground current specified at 90µA (typ) at 300mA load and 70µA in dropout. Its error amplifier compares a trimmed internal reference against feedback from a fixed-resistor divider to maintain regulation.

RESET functionality is implemented via a dedicated comparator monitoring V_OUT, asserting low when output falls below 82.5% of nominal voltage and holding for ≥70ms after regulation is achieved. Thermal shutdown activates at +165°C with 15°C hysteresis, and current limiting triggers at ≥450mA (min) to protect against overload.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1976AETA160+ is housed in an 8-pin 2mm × 2mm thin DFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP), optimized for space-constrained portable applications. The package features 0.5mm pitch, 0.8mm max height, and requires soldering EP to PCB ground plane for thermal integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.

Compared with MAX1976AETA160+, both alternatives offer lower quiescent current but sacrifice 300mA continuous output and sub-200mV dropout performance-making MAX1976AETA160+ the only option among the three validated for sustained 300mA loads at VIN ≤ 1.8V with thermal margin in 2mm × 2mm TDFN.

Availability

MAX1976AETA160+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, cellular handsets, digital still cameras, and PCMCIA cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and qualified sourcing for volume production.

Supply support for MAX1976AETA160+ 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and portable applications.

The MAX1976A series belongs to Maxim's low-input-voltage LDO family, engineered specifically for battery-powered equipment where extended runtime, small size, and robust reset supervision are essential.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX1976AETA160+ over temperature and load?

The MAX1976AETA160+ guarantees ±2.5% output voltage accuracy over load (1mA–300mA), line (VIN = VOUT + 0.5V to +3.6V), and temperature (–40°C to +85°C). At +25°C, the tighter ±0.5% specification applies. This ensures reliable operation for 1.60V logic rails across environmental and operational extremes without external trimming.

Does the MAX1976AETA160+ require external capacitors, and what values are recommended?

Yes, the MAX1976AETA160+ requires a 1µF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND, and a 4.7µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor between OUT and GND. These values ensure stability, transient response, and noise suppression across –40°C to +85°C. Output capacitor ESR must be ≤30mΩ to guarantee stability per the datasheet.

How does the RESET output of the MAX1976AETA160+ behave during shutdown?

During shutdown (SHDN = GND), the MAX1976AETA160+ actively pulls the RESET output low. RESET remains asserted until the device exits shutdown and VOUT reaches regulation, then holds low for ≥70ms before releasing. This behavior ensures deterministic microprocessor reset sequencing in power-gated systems.

Can the MAX1976AETA160+ operate from a single-cell Li-ion battery throughout its discharge curve?

Yes-the MAX1976AETA160+ operates from 1.62V to 3.6V input and delivers 1.60V output with only 100mV dropout at 300mA. It sustains regulation down to VIN = 1.70V, covering >95% of a typical Li-ion discharge curve (4.2V → 3.0V → 2.5V), making it suitable for direct single-cell battery connection without pre-regulation.

What thermal management guidance applies to the MAX1976AETA160+ in its 2mm × 2mm TDFN package?

The MAX1976AETA160+'s 8-pin TDFN package includes an exposed thermal pad (EP) that must be soldered to a PCB ground plane. Maxim specifies θ_JA ≈ 110°C/W with proper layout; failure to connect EP reduces power handling and risks thermal shutdown at >150°C junction temperature. Use ≥250mm² copper area under EP for optimal performance.