Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38902DANT18+T

Overview

MAX38902DANT18+T from Analog Devices is a factory-programmed, low-noise 500mA LDO linear regulator delivering a fixed 1.8V output with ±1% DC accuracy over load, line, and temperature. It operates from 1.7V to 5.5V input, maintains only 100mV max dropout at full 500mA load (3.6V_IN), and achieves 10.5µV_RMS output noise (10Hz–100kHz) - optimized for powering noise-sensitive analog circuitry in high-resolution data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38902DANT18+T datasheet, MAX38902DANT18+T pinout, MAX38902DANT18+T application, or MAX38902DANT18+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its WLP package footprint, active discharge capability (800Ω), programmable soft-start via BYP capacitor, and guaranteed stability with ≥2µF ceramic output capacitance.

Technical Context

The MAX38902DANT18+T implements a pMOS pass transistor architecture with internal 0.6V reference and precision feedback amplifier, enabling tight regulation and fast transient response. Its factory-trimmed 1.8V output eliminates external resistor networks and avoids FB node sensitivity to PCB leakage or layout parasitics.

Thermal protection activates at +165°C junction temperature with hysteresis down to +150°C, while reverse-current protection disables the pass device when V_OUT exceeds V_IN by >10mV - critical for multi-rail power sequencing. The 800Ω active discharge path on EN deassertion ensures rapid output voltage collapse without external circuitry.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX38902DANT18+T is housed in a 2 × 3, 0.4mm-pitch wafer-level package (WLP) with 6 solder bumps. The exposed die attach area serves as thermal and electrical ground reference.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX38902DANT18+T, TPS7A2018PDQNR offers smaller footprint but sacrifices 200mA drive capability and critical features like output sensing and active discharge; ADP125ARHZ-1.8-R7 matches current rating but introduces 4× higher noise and no soft-start control - limiting suitability for noise-critical or sequenced power architectures.

Availability

MAX38902DANT18+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution data acquisition systems, RF transceiver biasing, and portable audio CODEC power requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX38902DANT18+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

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

The MAX38902 family targets ultra-low-noise, high-accuracy power regulation for signal chain integrity - specifically engineered for applications where LDO noise, accuracy, and sequencing behavior directly impact system-level performance metrics like SNR, SFDR, and calibration stability.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance and temperature range for MAX38902DANT18+T?

The MAX38902DANT18+T delivers a factory-trimmed 1.8V output with ±1% DC accuracy over load, line, and temperature across the full operating range of -40°C to +125°C. This specification is guaranteed per the Electrical Characteristics table and applies to all conditions including full 500mA load, input voltages from 1.7V to 5.5V, and output voltages from 0.7V to 5.0V - confirming MAX38902DANT18+T meets stringent regulation requirements in thermally demanding environments.

Does MAX38902DANT18+T require an external feedback resistor network?

No, MAX38902DANT18+T does not require external feedback resistors. As a factory-programmed variant of the MAX38902D series, it integrates precision trimming to deliver a fixed 1.8V output. Unlike the MAX38902B/C versions, MAX38902DANT18+T omits the FB pin and uses dedicated OUTS sensing - eliminating resistor tolerance errors, layout sensitivity, and leakage-induced drift that affect adjustable LDOs.

What is the purpose of the OUTS pin on MAX38902DANT18+T?

The OUTS (output sense) pin on MAX38902DANT18+T provides remote voltage sensing at the load to compensate for IR drop across PCB traces or connectors. By routing OUTS directly to the load's power input, the regulator closes its feedback loop at the point of use - maintaining ±1% regulation accuracy even with 100mΩ trace resistance at 500mA. This feature is essential for high-precision applications where local regulation at the IC is insufficient.

Can MAX38902DANT18+T be used with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 4.7µF?

Yes, MAX38902DANT18+T is stable with a minimum 2µF ceramic output capacitor (X5R/X7R dielectric), as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table. While 4.7µF is recommended for optimal transient response and noise suppression, designs using space-constrained 2.2µF or 3.3µF X7R capacitors remain stable - provided DC bias derating maintains ≥2µF effective capacitance at the 1.8V output voltage.

How does the active discharge function work on MAX38902DANT18+T?

When the EN pin is pulled low, MAX38902DANT18+T activates an internal 800Ω resistor between the OUT pin and GND. This provides a controlled discharge path for output capacitors, reducing discharge time significantly compared to passive RC decay. The feature eliminates need for external bleed resistors and ensures deterministic power-down behavior - critical for systems requiring strict sequencing between multiple voltage rails.