Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38912ATA+
- Part No.:
- MAX38912ATA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 8-WFDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX38912ATA+.pdf
- Description:
- 500MA LDO WITH LOW POWER MODE
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX38912ATA+ from Analog Devices is an adjustable-output, low-noise 500mA PMOS LDO linear regulator in a 2mm × 2mm TDFN-8 package. It delivers 11µVRMS output noise (10Hz–100kHz), 70dB PSRR at 10kHz, ±1% DC accuracy over line/load/temperature, and supports 0.8V–5.0V output via external feedback resistors. It powers high-performance sensors and portable imaging systems requiring ultra-low noise and dual-mode operation.
For engineers reviewing the MAX38912ATA+ datasheet, MAX38912ATA+ pinout, MAX38912ATA+ application, or MAX38912ATA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 19.2µA low-power mode quiescent current, 800Ω active discharge, programmable soft-start via BYP capacitor, Power-OK (POK) output for sequencing, and thermal/overcurrent/reverse-current protection - all critical for battery-powered and signal-chain-sensitive designs.
Technical Context
The MAX38912ATA+ implements a PMOS pass transistor architecture with dual operating modes controlled by the MODE pin: high-power mode (332µA IQ, 500mA max load) and low-power mode (19.2µA IQ, 20mA max load). Its internal 0.6V reference and feedback amplifier enable precise output regulation across 0.8V–5.0V using external RFBTOP/RRFBBOT.
It integrates active discharge (800Ω pull-down to GND when EN = LOW), open-drain POK with 88–94% VOUT thresholds, and UVLO with 1.5–1.7V hysteresis. Protection includes thermal shutdown (165°C trip, 150°C release), reverse-current blocking, and current limiting (700mA typ during short-circuit).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 500mA max in high-power mode; enables powering of moderate-load analog/digital subsystems without external boost. |
| Output Noise | 11µVRMS (10Hz–100kHz); preserves SNR in ADCs, RF receivers, and precision sensor front-ends. |
| PSRR | 70dB at 10kHz (250mA, 300mV VIN–VOUT sep); suppresses switching noise from adjacent DC/DC converters. | Quiescent Current | 19.2µA in low-power mode; extends battery life in always-on sensor nodes and IoT endpoints. |
| Dropout Voltage | 50mV typ at 500mA (VIN = 3.6V); supports operation down to 1.7V input while regulating 1.8V outputs. |
| Accuracy | ±1% over line, load, and temperature; eliminates need for post-regulation trimming in production. |
| Active Discharge | 800Ω internal resistor from OUT to GND when disabled; ensures fast, controlled power-down for safe sequencing. |
Pinout & Package
MAX38912ATA+ is housed in an 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm TDFN package with exposed pad (EP) connected internally to GND. The package supports high thermal performance (θJA = 85.3°C/W on 4-layer board) and compact PCB layout for space-constrained portable designs.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 OUT | Regulated output node | Sources up to 500mA; requires ≥2µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor to GND for stability and transient response. |
| 2 IN | Main supply input | Accepts 1.7V–5.5V; bypassed with 4.7µF capacitor to GND; includes UVLO and reverse-current protection. |
| 3 GND | Power and signal reference | Common return for IN/OUT capacitors; EP must be soldered to ground plane for thermal and EMI performance. |
| 4 EN | Active-high enable control | Pull HIGH to activate regulator; pull LOW to disable output and engage 800Ω active discharge. |
| 5 BYP | Noise filtering & soft-start control | Connects 0.001–0.1µF capacitor to OUT to reduce reference noise and set startup slew rate (e.g., 0.01µF = 5V/ms). |
| 6 FB/OUTS | Feedback input (MAX38912) | Voltage divider midpoint sets VOUT = 0.6V × (1 + RFBTOP/RRFBBOT); enables precise adjustable output from 0.8V to 5.0V. |
| 7 MODE | Operating mode selector | HIGH = high-power mode (500mA, 332µA IQ); LOW = low-power mode (20mA, 19.2µA IQ); transition timing affects output transient. |
| 8 POK | Open-drain Power-OK indicator | Drives LOW when VOUT < 88% nominal; releases HIGH when VOUT > 91%; requires external pullup (10kΩ–200kΩ) for sequencing. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Output Voltage | 0.8V–5.0V via two external resistors - eliminates inventory of fixed-voltage variants and supports multi-rail system design. |
| Dual-Mode Operation | Switch between 500mA/332µA (normal) and 20mA/19.2µA (low-power) using MODE pin - optimizes efficiency across dynamic load profiles. |
| Ultra-Low Output Noise | 11µVRMS (10Hz–100kHz) with integrated BYP capacitor filtering - meets stringent noise requirements for high-resolution ADCs and RF signal chains. |
| Integrated Active Discharge | 800Ω internal pull-down from OUT to GND upon disable - ensures rapid, predictable discharge of output capacitance for safe power sequencing. |
| Power-OK (POK) Output | Open-drain status flag with 88–94% VOUT thresholds - enables reliable power-rail monitoring and inter-device startup/shutdown coordination. |
Applications
| Mobile Imaging Sensors | IoT Edge Node Power |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering CMOS image sensors and ISP processors in compact smartphones and AR glasses where EMI and thermal headroom are constrained. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary low-noise bias supply for analog pixel arrays and clock distribution buffers, replacing noisier switching regulators. Use Value: 11µVRMS noise prevents fixed-pattern noise in raw image data; 2mm × 2mm TDFN fits under camera modules; POK synchronizes sensor initialization. | Use Scenario: Supplying ultra-low-power microcontrollers, BLE radios, and environmental sensors in battery-operated smart meters and asset trackers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: System-level LDO managing both active (500mA burst) and sleep (19.2µA) states via MODE pin, coordinated with MCU wake/sleep commands. Use Value: 19.2µA quiescent current extends 10-year battery life; active discharge prevents backfeed during deep-sleep transitions; -40°C to +125°C rating supports outdoor deployment. |
| Portable Audio DACs | High-Frequency Sensor Front-Ends |
Use Scenario: Providing clean analog supply to stereo DACs and headphone amplifiers in wireless earbuds and portable audio players. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise post-regulator for DAC reference and analog output stages, decoupling from noisy SoC supplies. Use Value: 70dB PSRR at 10kHz suppresses Class-D amplifier switching artifacts; ±1% accuracy maintains THD+N spec across temperature; BYP capacitor tunes startup to avoid pop/click. | Use Scenario: Biasing MEMS accelerometers, gyroscopes, and ultrasonic transceivers in handheld medical and industrial test equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision voltage source for sensor excitation and signal conditioning circuitry, with fast transient response to handle pulsed measurement cycles. Use Value: 48mV load transient excursion (50mA↔500mA) ensures stable sensor bias during acquisition; thermal protection prevents drift during extended calibration runs; 0.8V min output supports next-gen low-voltage sensors. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torex XC6216D182MR-G | Fixed 1.8V output; no MODE pin or POK; 25µVRMS noise; 300mA max output. | Lacks dual-mode operation and sequencing capability; suitable only for static, low-current loads. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs noise, flexibility, and protection requirements. |
| Analog Devices ADM7172ACPZ-R7 | Fixed or adjustable output; 3.5µVRMS noise; 2A output; no low-power mode; larger 3mm × 3mm LFCSP. | Higher performance but higher IQ (1.3mA) and cost; over-specified for sub-500mA portable use cases. | Select when ultra-low noise (<4µVRMS) and higher current are mandatory, and board area permits larger package. |
Compared with XC6216D182MR-G, MAX38912ATA+ offers 2× lower noise, 67% higher current, and full sequencing features; compared with ADM7172ACPZ-R7, it provides 3.7× lower quiescent current in low-power mode and 44% smaller footprint - making it optimal for compact, battery-sensitive, noise-critical applications.
Availability
MAX38912ATA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile imaging sensors, IoT edge nodes, portable audio DACs, and high-frequency sensor front-ends requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for MAX38912ATA+ 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 industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.
The MAX38911/MAX38912 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-noise, dual-mode power management in portable and battery-powered systems where signal integrity, energy efficiency, and compact size are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the maximum output voltage range supported by the MAX38912ATA+?
The MAX38912ATA+ supports an adjustable output voltage range of 0.8V to 5.0V, set precisely using two external feedback resistors connected to the FB/OUTS pin. This is achieved via the internal 0.6V reference, where VOUT = 0.6V × (1 + RFBTOP/RRFBBOT). The specification is guaranteed across temperature, load, and line variations, and applies directly to the MAX38912ATA+ in its TDFN-8 package.
How does the MODE pin affect the performance of the MAX38912ATA+?
The MODE pin on the MAX38912ATA+ selects between two distinct operating modes: HIGH enables high-power mode (500mA max output, 332µA quiescent current), while LOW activates low-power mode (20mA max output, 19.2µA quiescent current). Transitions between modes cause controlled output transients (≤20.5mV), with 50µs settling time required before applying full high-power load. This dual-mode capability is intrinsic to the MAX38912ATA+ design and enables dynamic power optimization in battery-constrained systems.
Does the MAX38912ATA+ include reverse-current protection?
Yes, the MAX38912ATA+ includes integrated reverse-current protection. When the output voltage exceeds the input voltage (e.g., during shutdown or backup-battery scenarios), an internal reverse-voltage detector disables the pass element and blocks conduction through the body diode. This prevents unwanted current flow from OUT to IN, protecting upstream sources and maintaining system reliability - a confirmed feature documented in the MAX38912ATA+ electrical characteristics and protection sections.
What is the purpose of the BYP pin on the MAX38912ATA+?
The BYP pin on the MAX38912ATA+ connects to a small capacitor (0.001µF–0.1µF) between BYP and OUT to filter reference noise and control soft-start slew rate. A 0.01µF capacitor yields a 5V/ms startup ramp, reducing inrush current and preventing output overshoot. This function is explicitly defined for the MAX38912ATA+ in its pin description and application circuits, and directly contributes to its 11µVRMS noise performance and robust turn-on behavior.
Can the MAX38912ATA+ be used without the POK pin in a simple application?
Yes, the MAX38912ATA+ can operate fully without connecting the POK pin - it is optional for power sequencing. Leaving POK unconnected (or floating) does not affect regulation, protection, or basic functionality. However, omitting the external pullup resistor means losing the regulated-rail status indication. All core functions - including EN control, MODE switching, active discharge, and thermal protection - remain fully operational in the MAX38912ATA+ regardless of POK connection state.
MAX38912ATA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-WFDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Strip
- Product Status:
- Active
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5V
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.165V @ 500mA
- Current - Output:
- 500mA
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 750 µA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- 80dB ~ 44dB (1kHz ~ 1MHz)
- Control Features:
- Enable, Soft Start
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature, Reverse Polarity
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-TDFN-EP (2x2)
MAX38912ATA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX38912ATA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX38912ATA+ 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 MAX38912ATA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX38912ATA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX38912ATA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX38912ATA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX38912ATA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX38912ATA+?
MAX38912ATA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX38912ATA+ 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 MAX38912ATA+?
For technical support, including MAX38912ATA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX38912ATA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX38912ATA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX38912ATA+ 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 MAX38912ATA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX38912ATA+?
All MAX38912ATA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX38912ATA+, 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 MAX38912ATA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX38912ATA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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