Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38908ANL+T
- Part No.:
- MAX38908ANL+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 15-XFBGA, WLBGA
- Datasheet:
-
MAX38908ANL+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX38908ANL+T from Maxim Integrated is a 4A, high-PSRR nMOS low-dropout linear regulator with adjustable output (0.6V–5.0V), 0.9V–5.5V input range, and separate 2.7V–20V BIAS supply for enhanced efficiency in high-current digital power rails. It delivers ±1% DC accuracy over line/load/temperature and maintains 51mV dropout at 4A load - critical for FPGA core voltage regulation under fast transients.
For engineers reviewing the MAX38908ANL+T datasheet, MAX38908ANL+T pinout, MAX38908ANL+T application, or MAX38908ANL+T equivalent, this page provides verified package mapping (14-pin 3mm×3mm TDFN), confirmed feedback-based voltage programming, thermal shutdown behavior (165°C trip), reverse-current protection threshold (6.5mV IN–OUT differential), and real-world PSRR performance (78dB BIAS PSRR @10kHz).
Technical Context
The MAX38908ANL+T uses an nMOS pass device architecture with independent BIAS rail to decouple gate drive from input voltage, enabling stable operation down to 0.9V VIN while maintaining high PSRR and low dropout. Its feedback loop incorporates a dedicated BYP pin connected to a 1nF–100nF capacitor that sets monotonic soft-start slew rate and reduces reference noise.
Protection circuitry includes programmable inrush limiting via BYP capacitance, output overcurrent limiting (5.6A typ), thermal shutdown (165°C rising / 150°C falling), and active reverse-current blocking triggered when VIN falls 6.5mV below VOUT. The open-drain POK pin monitors FB voltage with 88–94% regulation window and requires external pullup (10kΩ–100kΩ).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 4A maximum continuous - supports high-power FPGA/DSP core rails without derating at +125°C ambient with proper PCB thermal design. |
| Input Voltage Range | 0.9V to 5.5V - enables direct regulation from single-cell Li-ion, 1.2V–3.3V logic rails, or intermediate buck outputs. |
| BIAS Supply Range | 2.7V to 20V - powers gate driver independently, allowing ultra-low VIN operation while preserving PSRR and transient response. |
| Output Accuracy | ±1% over line, load, and temperature - ensures reliable operation of sub-1V ASIC cores without margining overhead. |
| Dropout Voltage | 79mV typ at 4A (VOUT=1.2V, VBIAS=5V, TDFN) - minimizes power loss and heat generation in high-current applications. |
| PSRR Performance | 78dB BIAS PSRR @10kHz; 52dB IN PSRR @10kHz with 300mV headroom - suppresses switching noise from upstream DC/DC converters. |
| Thermal Shutdown | 165°C junction trip with 15°C hysteresis - prevents permanent damage during sustained overload or poor heatsinking. |
Pinout & Package
MAX38908ANL+T is packaged in a 14-pin, 3mm × 3mm TDFN (Package Code T1433+2C) with exposed pad (EP) thermally connected to GND. Pin 1 is top-left corner (marked dot), pin count proceeds counterclockwise.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 3, 4 | IN | Primary input supply (0.9V–5.5V); bypassed with ≥22μF ceramic to GND; multiple pins reduce IR drop and improve current sharing. |
| 5 | BIAS | Dedicated gate-drive supply (2.7V–20V); must exceed VOUT by ≥2V; bypassed with 1μF ceramic to GND. |
| 6, 7 | GND | Power ground return; connects IN/OUT capacitor grounds and EP for optimal noise immunity and thermal conduction. |
| 8 | EN | Active-high enable; VIH = 1.0V min, VIL = 0.9V max; connect to BIAS for always-on operation. |
| 9 | FB | Feedback input for resistor-divider programming (0.6V–5.0V); internal 0.6V reference with ±1% accuracy. |
| 10 | POK | Open-drain Power-OK output; asserts low when VOUT < 88% nominal; requires external pullup (10kΩ–100kΩ). |
| 11, 12, 13, 14 | OUT | Regulated output (4A max); multiple pins reduce trace resistance and inductance; pulled low via 70Ω when disabled. |
| EP | Exposed Pad | Thermal and electrical GND connection; must be soldered to large copper pour for θJA = 41°C/W (4-layer board). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable Soft-Start | Monotonic VOUT ramp controlled by BYP capacitor (1nF–100nF); eliminates inrush current into large output capacitors. |
| Reverse-Current Protection | Active blocking when VIN < VOUT − 6.5mV - prevents discharge of output bulk caps into input rail during power-down. |
| High-Accuracy Power-OK | POK asserts within 88–94% VOUT window with hysteresis; enables precise power sequencing with downstream logic. |
| Stability with Low ESR Caps | Stable with ≥10μF ceramic output capacitance (no series R required); simplifies layout and reduces BOM cost. |
| Robust Thermal Management | Thermal shutdown with 15°C hysteresis (165°C on / 150°C off) and low θJA = 41°C/W (4-layer board) enables compact designs. |
Applications
| FPGA Core Power Delivery | Server Microprocessor VR |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Powers 0.8V–1.2V core rails of Xilinx Kintex/Virtex or Intel Stratix FPGAs with dynamic current demands up to 4A. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LDO delivering tightly regulated, low-noise core voltage with fast transient response (<28mV excursion @4A step). Use Value: Maintains ±1% accuracy across temperature and load, preventing timing violations during burst-mode operation. |
Use Scenario: Supplies core voltage to ARM-based server SoCs (e.g., Ampere Altra) requiring stable 0.7V–1.1V rails with minimal PSRR-sensitive noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-PSRR post-regulator cleaning ripple from primary multiphase buck converter outputs. Use Value: 78dB BIAS PSRR @10kHz suppresses switching artifacts that could disrupt cache coherency or memory interface timing. |
| Medical Imaging Signal Chain | Industrial PLC I/O Module |
|
Use Scenario: Powers precision ADCs, DACs, and op-amps in portable ultrasound or MRI front-ends where EMI immunity is critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ultra-low-noise local regulator for analog signal path components requiring sub-10μVRMS output noise. Use Value: 21.2μVRMS output noise (10Hz–100kHz) and 52dB IN PSRR ensure clean reference and bias voltages for 16-bit+ conversion. |
Use Scenario: Provides isolated 3.3V/5V rails for digital I/O, CAN transceivers, and microcontrollers in DIN-rail mounted PLC modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust, fault-tolerant LDO with reverse-current blocking and thermal protection for harsh industrial environments. Use Value: Active reverse-current protection prevents backfeed during hot-swap events; -40°C to +125°C operation ensures reliability in uncooled enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TI TPS7A8300RGRT | 4A, 0.8V–3.6V output, 1.1V–6.5V input; fixed or resistor-programmable; no separate BIAS rail; higher quiescent current (2.5mA vs. 1.6mA) | Lacks independent BIAS supply → limited PSRR below 1.1V VIN; less suitable for ultra-low-input applications like single-cell battery systems | Select MAX38908ANL+T when VIN can be <1.1V or when BIAS-supplied PSRR >70dB @10kHz is required. |
| Analog Devices ADM7172ACPZ-R7 | 6A, 0.9V–5.5V output, 1.6V–6.5V input; no BIAS rail; 300mV dropout @6A; lower PSRR (45dB @10kHz) | Higher current rating but lower PSRR and no BIAS optimization → inferior noise rejection in mixed-signal systems | Choose MAX38908ANL+T for applications demanding >75dB BIAS PSRR and operation down to 0.9V VIN with full 4A capability. |
Compared with TPS7A8300RGRT and ADM7172ACPZ-R7, the MAX38908ANL+T uniquely combines a dedicated BIAS rail for consistent high PSRR across its full 0.9V–5.5V input range, reverse-current blocking at sub-10mV thresholds, and guaranteed ±1% accuracy - making it optimal for noise-sensitive, wide-input, high-reliability digital power rails.
Availability
MAX38908ANL+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA core power delivery, server microprocessor VR, medical imaging signal chain, and industrial PLC I/O module applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX38908ANL+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 demanding industrial, computing, and medical applications.
The MAX38907/MAX38908 family was designed specifically for high-current, low-noise digital power rails in FPGAs, DSPs, and microprocessors - emphasizing fast transient response, ultra-high PSRR, and robust protection in compact packages.
FAQ
What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability with MAX38908ANL+T?
The MAX38908ANL+T is stable with a minimum 10μF ceramic output capacitor. This value is verified across temperature and load conditions per the datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table. Using ≥22μF (as recommended in typical application circuits) improves transient response and reduces output ripple. Lower-ESR polymer or tantalum caps are not required - standard X5R/X7R ceramics meet all stability criteria without added series resistance.
Does MAX38908ANL+T support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?
Yes, MAX38908ANL+T supports fully adjustable output from 0.6V to 5.0V using an external resistor divider connected to the FB pin. The internal reference is 0.6V ±1%, so VOUT = 0.6V × (1 + R1/R2). Table 2 in the datasheet lists recommended resistor values for common voltages. Unlike the MAX38907 variant, MAX38908ANL+T does not use SEL pins - configuration is exclusively analog via FB.
What is the purpose of the BIAS pin on MAX38908ANL+T, and what happens if it's unconnected?
The BIAS pin supplies gate drive for the nMOS pass transistor independently of the IN rail. It must be connected to a 2.7V–20V supply ≥2V above the target VOUT; if left floating or below specification, the regulator fails to enable or exhibits erratic dropout behavior. Unconnected BIAS prevents normal operation - the device will not regulate, and EN will have no effect. A 1μF ceramic bypass capacitor to GND is mandatory for stability.
How does the reverse-current protection work on MAX38908ANL+T, and what is its trip threshold?
MAX38908ANL+T actively blocks reverse current when VIN drops below VOUT − 6.5mV, opening a switch in series with the pass device's body diode. This prevents >0.7A reverse flow during input collapse or hot-swap events. The threshold is fixed and internally trimmed - no external components are needed. This feature protects upstream supplies and avoids uncontrolled discharge of output bulk capacitors.
Can MAX38908ANL+T be used in parallel to increase current capacity?
No, MAX38908ANL+T is not designed for parallel operation. Its feedback architecture lacks current-sharing control, and mismatched output voltages would cause one device to source most of the load while the other sinks current - potentially triggering reverse-current protection or thermal shutdown. For >4A requirements, select a higher-current LDO or use a multiphase buck regulator instead.
MAX38908ANL+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 15-XFBGA, WLBGA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Programmable
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.6V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5V
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.15V @ 4A
- Current - Output:
- 4A
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 150 µA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- 60dB ~ 42dB (1kHz ~ 100kHz)
- Control Features:
- Enable, Reset Out
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature, Reverse Current, Soft Start
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 15-WLP (2.35x1.29)
MAX38908ANL+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX38908ANL+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX38908ANL+T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX38908ANL+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX38908ANL+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX38908ANL+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX38908ANL+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX38908ANL+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX38908ANL+T?
MAX38908ANL+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX38908ANL+T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX38908ANL+T?
For technical support, including MAX38908ANL+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX38908ANL+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX38908ANL+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX38908ANL+T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX38908ANL+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX38908ANL+T?
All MAX38908ANL+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX38908ANL+T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX38908ANL+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX38908ANL+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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