Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38902AATA+

Overview

MAX38902AATA+ from Analog Devices is a low-noise, pin-selectable 500mA LDO linear regulator in an 8-pin TDFN package, delivering ±1% DC output accuracy over load, line, and temperature with only 10.5µVRMS noise (10Hz–100kHz) and 100mV max dropout at full load. It supports nine fixed output voltages (1.2V to 5.0V), features active discharge (800Ω), programmable soft-start, and operates across 1.7V–5.5V input for high-resolution data acquisition and audio power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38902AATA+ datasheet, MAX38902AATA+ pinout, MAX38902AATA+ application, or MAX38902AATA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options - all grounded in the official Analog Devices datasheet Rev 10 (7/22).

Technical Context

The MAX38902AATA+ uses a pMOS pass transistor architecture with internal 0.6V reference and voltage-select logic that samples SELA/SELB states at enable startup to configure one of nine output voltages. Its control loop includes integrated soft-start via BYP capacitor timing and reverse-current protection triggered when VIN falls 10mV below VOUT.

Thermal shutdown activates at +165°C junction temperature with hysteresis (re-enable at +150°C), and current limiting holds output at ~700mA during short-circuit events. The 800Ω active discharge path engages only when EN is pulled low, enabling precise power sequencing in multi-rail systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX38902AATA+ is housed in an 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm TDFN package (package code T822+3C) with exposed pad (EP) thermally connected to GND. The pinout is identical to MAX8902 (pin-to-pin compatible), supporting drop-in replacement in existing layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX38902AATA+, MAX8902AATA+ offers identical layout compatibility but trades 10.5µVRMS noise and ±1% accuracy for lower cost, while TPL7407LADGQR provides wider VOUT adjustability at the expense of added components and higher noise - making MAX38902AATA+ optimal for fixed-voltage, ultra-low-noise, and sequenced-power applications.

Availability

MAX38902AATA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution data acquisition, audio systems, and communication circuitry requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation (-40°C to +125°C), and consistent parametric performance across production lots.

Supply support for MAX38902AATA+ 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, industrial automation, communications, and automotive markets.

The MAX38902 family was designed specifically for ultra-low-noise, high-accuracy power regulation in sensitive analog and mixed-signal systems - targeting applications where PSRR, output noise, and thermal robustness are critical design constraints.

FAQ

What output voltages does the MAX38902AATA+ support?

The MAX38902AATA+ supports nine fixed output voltages: 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.0V, 3.1V, 3.3V, 4.0V, and 5.0V. These are selected using the SELA and SELB pins, which are sampled only at power-up or when EN is cycled. The configuration table in the datasheet defines each combination - for example, SELA = IN and SELB = unconnected sets VOUT = 1.5V. No external resistors are required.

Does the MAX38902AATA+ include active discharge, and how does it function?

Yes, the MAX38902AATA+ includes an 800Ω active discharge path from OUT to GND that engages automatically when the EN pin is pulled low. This feature rapidly discharges output capacitors - reducing discharge time for a 4.7µF cap to under 5ms - enabling safe, controlled power-down sequencing in multi-rail systems. The discharge path is disabled when EN is high, preserving output hold-up time.

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability with the MAX38902AATA+?

The MAX38902AATA+ requires a minimum of 2µF total output capacitance (including DC bias derating) for guaranteed stability. A 4.7µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor is recommended, placed close to the OUT and GND pins. The device remains stable with low-ESR caps (<0.03Ω) and does not require series resistance - simplifying layout and improving transient response in noise-sensitive applications.

How does the soft-start function work on the MAX38902AATA+?

The MAX38902AATA+ implements programmable soft-start via the BYP pin: connecting a capacitor (0.001µF–0.1µF) between BYP and OUT sets the output slew rate using the formula StartupSlewRate = (5V/ms) × (0.01µF / CBYP). With the default 0.01µF cap, VOUT ramps at 5V/ms - limiting inrush current to ~50mA during startup. This prevents input rail droop and avoids false triggering of upstream undervoltage lockout circuits.

Is the MAX38902AATA+ pin-compatible with other regulators in its family or from Analog Devices?

Yes, the MAX38902AATA+ is pin-to-pin compatible with the MAX8902AATA+ in the same 8-pin TDFN package, enabling drop-in replacement where enhanced noise performance (10.5µVRMS vs. 10µVRMS), tighter accuracy (±1% vs. ±2%), and active discharge are needed. It is not pin-compatible with MAX38902B/C/D variants due to differing pin functions (e.g., POK, FB, OUTS) and package types (WLP).