Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1976AEZT300+T

Overview

MAX1976AEZT300+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator with preset 3.0V output, delivering guaranteed 300mA continuous current at ≤100mV dropout (at 300mA), ±0.5% output voltage accuracy, and active-low open-drain RESET with 70ms delay. It operates from 1.62V to 3.6V input and targets power management in space-constrained portable systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1976AEZT300+T datasheet, MAX1976AEZT300+T pinout, MAX1976AEZT300+T application, or MAX1976AEZT300+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its thin SOT23-6 package, 70ms RESET assertion time, 90µA typical ground current under full load, thermal-overload protection, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors for stable 3.0V rail generation.

Technical Context

The MAX1976AEZT300+T integrates a p-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) = 0.33Ω) enabling load-independent quiescent current and low dropout performance. Its internal error amplifier compares feedback against a precision reference to regulate output, while a dedicated power-good comparator drives the open-drain RESET output.

RESET assertion is triggered when V_OUT falls below 82.5% of nominal (±2.5% threshold accuracy) and remains asserted for ≥70ms after regulation is achieved. Shutdown is logic-controlled via active-low SHDN, reducing supply current to <1µA and actively pulling OUT to GND through a 1.5kΩ resistor.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1976AEZT300+T is housed in a 6-pin thin SOT23-6 package (1.6mm × 2.9mm × 1.1mm), optimized for high-density portable PCB layouts. Thermal performance is enhanced by direct GND connection to the die substrate.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX1976AEZT300+T, the XC6219B302MR-G offers lower unit cost but adds design complexity due to missing RESET, while the ADP125ARHZ-3.0-R7 provides greater current headroom and lower quiescent current but eliminates the integrated power-good signal essential for microprocessor boot reliability.

Availability

MAX1976AEZT300+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, cellular handsets, portable media players, and PCMCIA cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX1976AEZT300+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX1963A/MAX1976A product line delivers low-input-voltage, high-accuracy LDOs with integrated RESET for battery-powered portable electronics where size, efficiency, and power sequencing integrity are critical.

FAQ

What is the exact output voltage of MAX1976AEZT300+T?

The MAX1976AEZT300+T has a factory-trimmed fixed output voltage of 3.0V, confirmed by the "300" suffix in the part number and the Selector Guide table. This value is guaranteed within ±0.5% over load, line, and temperature (–40°C to +85°C), making it suitable for powering 3.0V I/O standards and precision analog circuitry without external feedback components.

Does MAX1976AEZT300+T require external capacitors, and what values are recommended?

Yes, MAX1976AEZT300+T requires two external ceramic capacitors: a minimum 1µF capacitor between IN and GND, and a 4.7µF low-ESR (≤30mΩ) capacitor between OUT and GND. These values are specified in the Applications Information section and ensure stability, low noise, and adequate load-transient response across the full –40°C to +85°C temperature range.

How does the RESET function behave during power-up and brownout events for MAX1976AEZT300+T?

During power-up, the RESET output of MAX1976AEZT300+T remains low until the output reaches regulation and stays low for ≥70ms thereafter. During brownout, RESET asserts immediately if VOUT drops below 82.5% of 3.0V (i.e., 2.475V), providing reliable microprocessor reset signaling even as input voltage collapses - a behavior verified in the Electrical Characteristics table and Typical Operating Characteristics plots.

What thermal protection features are built into MAX1976AEZT300+T?

MAX1976AEZT300+T incorporates thermal-overload protection that disables the pass transistor when junction temperature exceeds +165°C. After shutdown, the device remains off until temperature falls by 15°C (to +150°C), then resumes regulation. This hysteresis prevents thermal cycling and protects against sustained overload or poor heatsinking - a feature documented in the Detailed Description and Absolute Maximum Ratings sections.

Can MAX1976AEZT300+T be used with input voltages below 1.8V?

Yes, MAX1976AEZT300+T is fully specified to operate with input voltages as low as 1.62V, enabling use with partially discharged single-cell lithium batteries or low-voltage energy harvesting sources. Its p-channel MOSFET architecture maintains regulation down to VIN = VOUT + dropout (e.g., 3.1V for 3.0V output), and ground current remains stable even near dropout - all confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics and Typical Operating Characteristics data.