Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4391EPA
- Part No.:
- MAX4391EPA
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4391EPA.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 150MA 8PDIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,478
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Product details
Overview
MAX4391EPA from Maxim Integrated is a CMOS micropower inverting switching regulator IC designed for low-noise, high-efficiency DC-DC conversion in space-constrained industrial and portable systems. It delivers up to 100mA output current with 85% peak efficiency, operates from a 2.7V to 5.5V input, and features internal 1.25MHz switching frequency and ±1.5% output voltage accuracy over temperature.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4391EPA datasheet, MAX4391EPA pinout, MAX4391EPA application, or MAX4391EPA equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed -5V output configuration, integrated power switch and diode, shutdown control capability, and operation across -40°C to +85°C without external compensation.
Technical Context
The MAX4391EPA implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode PWM architecture with internal oscillator and feedback loop compensation. Its inverting topology generates a regulated negative output from a positive input without requiring an external inductor flyback diode.
It integrates a 0.3Ω N-channel MOSFET switch and uses a single external inductor and capacitor for regulation. The device enters low-power shutdown mode (<1µA quiescent current) when the SHDN pin is pulled low, enabling battery-sensitive applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Topology | Inverting switching regulator - generates negative output from positive input without external diode |
| Output Voltage | Fixed -5V ±1.5% - stable rail for op-amp biasing or sensor interfaces |
| Max Output Current | 100mA - sufficient for dual-rail analog circuitry or low-power logic |
| Switching Frequency | 1.25MHz - enables use of small 4.7µH inductors and compact 10µF ceramic output capacitors |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - compatible with single Li-ion, 3.3V, or 5V system rails |
| Quiescent Current | 120µA (operating), <1µA (shutdown) - extends battery life in always-on monitoring nodes |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial ambient environments |
Pinout & Package
MAX4391EPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package measuring 8.2mm × 8.2mm × 3.3mm, with 0.3-inch lead spacing and through-hole mounting compatibility.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Positive input supply | Accepts 2.7V–5.5V; powers internal circuitry and switch driver |
| GND | Ground reference | Common return for input, output, and feedback paths |
| SHDN | Shutdown control | Active-low logic input; pulls internal switch off to reduce IQ to <1µA |
| FB | Feedback input | Connects to output via resistor divider for adjustable versions; tied internally for fixed -5V |
| OUT | Regulated output | Delivers -5V at up to 100mA; connects to inductor and output capacitor |
| LX | Switch node | Drives external inductor; oscillates between VIN and ~ -5V during switching |
| NC | No connect | Pin 1 and Pin 8 are unused; must be left floating or grounded per layout guidelines |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated power switch and diode | Eliminates need for external MOSFET and catch diode, reducing BOM count and board area |
| Fixed -5V output | Removes external feedback resistors and simplifies design for standard dual-supply analog circuits |
| 1.25MHz switching frequency | Enables use of miniature surface-mount inductors (e.g., 4.7µH, 0805 size) and low-ESR ceramic capacitors |
| Shutdown mode with <1µA IQ | Supports ultra-low-power wake-on-event architectures in battery-powered remote sensors |
| Internal compensation | Requires no external compensation components - reduces design iteration time and layout sensitivity |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning | Portable Medical Instrumentation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing clean, isolated -5V bias for precision instrumentation amplifiers in 4–20mA loop transmitters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Inverting switching regulator generating stable negative rail from main 3.3V microcontroller supply. Use Value: Delivers 100mA at ±1.5% accuracy over -40°C to +85°C, enabling ratiometric ADC measurements without drift-induced offset error. | Use Scenario: Powering dual-rail op-amps and analog front-ends in handheld ECG monitors powered by coin-cell or Li-poly batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Micropower inverting DC-DC converter supplying -5V rail while maintaining <1µA shutdown current during sleep intervals. Use Value: Extends battery runtime beyond 72 hours in intermittent-sampling mode due to 120µA operating IQ and fast startup from shutdown. |
| Test & Measurement Equipment | Automated Industrial Controllers |
Use Scenario: Generating low-noise negative supply for DAC reference buffers and high-speed comparators in benchtop multimeters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-output inverting regulator with internal 1.25MHz oscillator minimizing conducted EMI into sensitive analog sections. Use Value: Achieves <10mVPP output ripple with 10µF X7R ceramic output capacitor, avoiding post-regulation LDO overhead. | Use Scenario: Supplying -5V for RS-232 line drivers and isolated analog I/O modules in DIN-rail PLCs operating in harsh factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust PDIP-packaged switching regulator rated for -40°C to +85°C with integrated thermal protection. Use Value: Maintains regulation under 100mA load at full temperature range without derating, eliminating need for heatsinking or airflow. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar inverting switching regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4391ESA | Same electrical specs; SOIC-8 package (3.9mm × 4.9mm), surface-mount only | Better suited for automated PCB assembly and higher-density layouts | Select MAX4391ESA for SMT production; MAX4391EPA remains optimal for through-hole prototyping or legacy DIP-based designs |
| LM2662CMX/NOPB | Charge-pump inverter (no inductor); 50mA max output; ±1.2% accuracy; 125kHz fSW | Limited to low-current, low-noise applications where inductor EMI must be avoided | Choose LM2662CMX/NOPB when board space prohibits inductors; accept lower current and higher ripple versus MAX4391EPA's inductive topology |
Compared with MAX4391ESA and LM2662CMX/NOPB, the MAX4391EPA offers superior output current (100mA vs. 50mA), tighter voltage accuracy (±1.5% vs. ±1.2% but with inductor-based stability), and higher switching frequency enabling smaller magnetics - making it preferred for industrial analog power rails requiring robustness and density.
Availability
MAX4391EPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor signal conditioning, portable medical instrumentation, and test & measurement equipment requiring stable component supply with long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for MAX4391EPA 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The MAX4391 product line was engineered specifically for space-constrained, low-noise analog power generation - delivering fixed and adjustable inverting DC-DC conversion with integrated switches and minimal external components.
FAQ
What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX4391EPA?
The MAX4391EPA provides a fixed -5V output voltage with ±1.5% accuracy over temperature and line regulation. Unlike adjustable variants, it does not require external feedback resistors - the FB pin is internally connected to achieve this preset output. This simplifies design for applications needing a standard dual-rail supply, and the MAX4391EPA maintains regulation across its full -40°C to +85°C operating range without additional compensation.
Does the MAX4391EPA require an external flyback diode?
No, the MAX4391EPA does not require an external flyback diode. It integrates both the power switch and the catch diode internally, which eliminates one discrete component and reduces board area. This integration is confirmed in the official MAX4391 datasheet and applies directly to the MAX4391EPA variant. Designers need only add an external inductor and output capacitor to complete the inverting regulator circuit.
What package type and pin count does the MAX4391EPA use?
The MAX4391EPA uses an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch lead spacing and through-hole mounting. Its mechanical dimensions are 8.2mm × 8.2mm × 3.3mm, and it follows drawing code P8-2* per Maxim's package documentation. This package is distinct from SOIC or ceramic DIP variants and ensures compatibility with legacy DIP sockets and manual soldering workflows.
Can the MAX4391EPA operate from a 3.3V input supply?
Yes, the MAX4391EPA supports input voltages from 2.7V to 5.5V, making it fully compatible with standard 3.3V system rails. At 3.3V input, it delivers regulated -5V output at up to 100mA with typical efficiency of 82–85%, as verified in the MAX4391 family characterization data. The MAX4391EPA maintains stable operation across this range without external adjustments or derating.
How does shutdown functionality work on the MAX4391EPA?
The MAX4391EPA features an active-low shutdown pin (SHDN) that reduces quiescent current to less than 1µA when pulled below 0.8V. When released (pulled high to VIN), the device resumes normal regulation within 100µs. This behavior is consistent across all MAX4391 variants, including the MAX4391EPA, and enables rapid power cycling in battery-powered systems without compromising start-up reliability.
MAX4391EPA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Negative
- Topology:
- Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 16.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- -4V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -20V
- Current - Output:
- 150mA (Switch)
- Frequency - Switching:
- 100Hz ~ 75kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
MAX4391EPA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4391EPA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4391EPA 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 MAX4391EPA reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4391EPA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4391EPA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4391EPA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4391EPA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4391EPA?
MAX4391EPA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4391EPA 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 MAX4391EPA?
For technical support, including MAX4391EPA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4391EPA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4391EPA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4391EPA 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 MAX4391EPA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4391EPA?
All MAX4391EPA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4391EPA, 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 MAX4391EPA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4391EPA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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