Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1976EZT160+

Overview

MAX1976EZT160+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator (LDO) with integrated active-low reset output, designed for battery-powered portable electronics. It operates from 1.62V to 3.6V input, delivers guaranteed 300mA continuous output current, features ±0.5% output voltage accuracy at 1.60V, and provides 70ms reset delay after power-up - used in notebook computers, cellular handsets, and PDAs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1976EZT160+ datasheet, MAX1976EZT160+ pinout, MAX1976EZT160+ application, or MAX1976EZT160+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 100mV dropout at 300mA, logic-controlled shutdown, thermal/short-circuit protection, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic capacitors (1µF IN / 4.7µF OUT).

Technical Context

The MAX1976EZT160+ employs an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) = 0.33Ω), enabling supply current independence from load and dropout voltage - critical for ultra-low-power operation across battery discharge cycles. Its error amplifier compares a precision reference against feedback from an internal voltage divider to regulate 1.60V output.

Reset functionality is implemented via a dedicated comparator monitoring V_OUT; RESET asserts when output falls below 82.5% of nominal voltage and remains asserted for ≥70ms after regulation is achieved. Shutdown is controlled by an active-low SHDN input with <1µA off-state current and 90µs turn-on delay.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1976EZT160+ uses the 6-pin thin SOT23-6 package (Z6-1), height <1.1mm, footprint 2.9mm × 2.8mm - optimized for space-constrained portable PCBs. Pin 5 (I.C.) is internally connected and must be left floating or tied to GND per layout guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS73116DBVR and MCP1825-1602E/DB, MAX1976EZT160+ uniquely combines 300mA delivery, 100mV dropout, ±0.5% accuracy, and integrated 70ms reset - reducing component count and improving power-rail reliability in space- and battery-limited designs.

Availability

MAX1976EZT160+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, cellular telephones, and personal digital assistants requiring stable component supply with RoHS-compliant, lead-free packaging.

Supply support for MAX1976EZT160+ 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 MAX1963/MAX1976 product line was engineered for ultra-low-voltage, high-accuracy regulation in portable battery-powered systems - prioritizing minimal dropout, low quiescent current, and integrated power-good signaling.

FAQ

What output voltage does the MAX1976EZT160+ provide?

The MAX1976EZT160+ provides a factory-preset, non-adjustable output voltage of 1.60V. This value is trimmed during production and guaranteed within ±0.5% over temperature, load, and line conditions. The "160" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes the 1.60V output - no external resistors or configuration pins are required to set or adjust this voltage.

How does the RESET function behave on the MAX1976EZT160+?

The MAX1976EZT160+ features an open-drain, active-low RESET output that asserts low during power-up until the output reaches regulation, then remains asserted for ≥70ms before releasing. It reasserts immediately if V_OUT drops below 82.5% of nominal (1.32V) or during shutdown. An external pull-up resistor is required for proper µP interface.

Can the MAX1976EZT160+ operate from a single Li-ion cell?

Yes - the MAX1976EZT160+ supports input voltages from 1.62V to 3.6V, making it compatible with discharged single-cell Li-ion (2.7V–4.2V) and Li-polymer batteries. Its 100mV dropout at 300mA allows regulation down to ~1.7V input, extending usable runtime beyond many competing LDOs.

What are the capacitor requirements for stable operation of the MAX1976EZT160+?

The MAX1976EZT160+ requires a 1µF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND, and a 4.7µF low-ESR (≤30mΩ) ceramic capacitor between OUT and GND. These must be placed as close as possible to their respective pins. Larger or additional capacitance improves transient response and noise suppression but is not required for basic stability.

Does the MAX1976EZT160+ include protection features?

Yes - the MAX1976EZT160+ integrates short-circuit protection, thermal-overload protection with +165°C trip and 15°C hysteresis, and undervoltage lockout (1.30V–1.60V). These functions operate autonomously without external components, safeguarding both the IC and downstream circuitry during fault conditions.