Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1976EZT250-T

Overview

The MAX1976EZT250-T from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator delivering 300mA continuous output current with ±0.5% output voltage accuracy at 2.50V, 100mV dropout at full load, and a 70ms active-low open-drain RESET flag-designed for power management in space-constrained portable electronics such as notebook computers and digital cameras.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1976EZT250-T datasheet, MAX1976EZT250-T pinout, MAX1976EZT250-T application, or MAX1976EZT250-T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 300mA output under 1.62V–3.6V input, thermal-overload protection, logic-controlled shutdown, and compatibility with 4.7µF low-ESR ceramic output capacitors in thin SOT23-6 packaging.

Technical Context

The MAX1976EZT250-T uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) = 0.33Ω) to achieve load-independent quiescent current (90µA typ), enabling stable operation down to 1.62V input while maintaining 100mV dropout at 300mA. Its reset circuit asserts low for ≥70ms after V_OUT reaches regulation and deasserts immediately upon V_OUT falling below 82.5% of nominal.

It integrates undervoltage lockout (1.30V–1.60V threshold), short-circuit protection, and thermal shutdown at +165°C with 15°C hysteresis. The device operates across –40°C to +85°C and requires only 1µF input and 4.7µF output ceramic capacitors for stability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX1976EZT250-T is housed in a 6-pin thin SOT23 package (Z6-1), 2.9mm × 2.8mm × 1.1mm, with exposed die pad not present (SOT23 variant). Pin 5 (I.C.) is internally connected and must be left floating or tied to GND per design guidance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS79525DBVR and NCP1117ST25T3G, the MAX1976EZT250-T uniquely combines 300mA capability, 1.62V minimum input, 100mV dropout, and integrated 70ms RESET in a 2.9mm × 2.8mm SOT23 package-making it optimal for battery-powered portable designs requiring tight voltage accuracy and power-good signaling.

Availability

MAX1976EZT250-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, digital cameras, and smartphone baseband power supplies requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX1976EZT250-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 MAX1963/MAX1976 product line was engineered for ultra-low-input-voltage, high-accuracy LDO regulation in space-constrained portable electronics-prioritizing minimal dropout, precise output voltage, and integrated power-good signaling.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX1976EZT250-T over temperature and load?

The MAX1976EZT250-T guarantees ±0.5% output voltage accuracy over the full –40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and across 1mA to 300mA load current, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Output Voltage Accuracy" with VIN = (VOUT + 0.5V) or 1.8V, whichever is greater. This specification applies directly to the MAX1976EZT250-T and is factory-trimmed.

Does the MAX1976EZT250-T require external components for stable operation?

Yes, the MAX1976EZT250-T requires a 1µF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND, and a 4.7µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor between OUT and GND for stable operation across temperature and load. These values are specified in the Applications Information section and validated in Typical Operating Characteristics. No additional compensation components are needed for the MAX1976EZT250-T.

How does the RESET function behave during input voltage ramp-up on the MAX1976EZT250-T?

On the MAX1976EZT250-T, the open-drain RESET output remains asserted low until the output voltage reaches regulation and stays within tolerance, then remains low for a guaranteed minimum of 70ms before releasing high. It reasserts low immediately if VOUT falls below 82.5% of nominal (2.0625V), including during input voltage ramp-down or brownout events.

Can the MAX1976EZT250-T be used with a 1.8V input to deliver 2.50V output?

No-the MAX1976EZT250-T cannot regulate 2.50V output from a 1.8V input because its minimum input voltage requirement is VOUT + dropout voltage. With 100mV dropout at full load, the absolute minimum input is 2.60V. At 1.8V input, the MAX1976EZT250-T will be in dropout and unable to maintain 2.50V output; operation is only valid for VIN ≥ 2.60V.

What is the thermal shutdown behavior of the MAX1976EZT250-T under continuous overload?

The MAX1976EZT250-T activates thermal shutdown at +165°C junction temperature and remains off until the die cools by 15°C (to +150°C), resulting in pulsed output during sustained overload. This hysteresis prevents oscillation. The device is rated for continuous operation up to +150°C junction temperature, and the SOT23 package's thermal resistance requires adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.