Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4832ETT33C+

Overview

MAX4832ETT33C+ from Maxim Integrated is a 3.3V, 100mA low-dropout linear regulator with integrated current-limiting switch and open-drain FLAG output for overcurrent detection. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V input, delivers 130mV dropout at full load, features 90µA quiescent current, and includes reverse-current protection and thermal shutdown. It is used in USB port power management where precise current limiting and fault flagging are required.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4832ETT33C+ datasheet, MAX4832ETT33C+ pinout, MAX4832ETT33C+ application, or MAX4832ETT33C+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3.3V fixed output, FLAG-based overload notification, TDFN-6 package thermal performance, and compatibility with SDIO/USB power rail sequencing requirements.

Technical Context

The MAX4832ETT33C+ implements a BiCMOS-based LDO architecture with an internal PMOS pass transistor, precision bandgap reference, and current-sense circuitry that triggers FLAG after sustained overload exceeding 115mA for >5ms (blanking time). Its soft-start is externally programmable via SS pin capacitor, enabling controlled ramp-up without inrush-induced system resets.

Unlike the RESET variant (MAX4833), this device uses an open-drain FLAG output latched off during overcurrent events-requiring IN or SHDN toggle to recover-and provides no shutdown discharge path. Reverse-current protection ensures <0.1µA leakage when VOUT > VIN, critical for battery-backed or multi-rail systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4832ETT33C+ is housed in a 3mm × 3mm, 6-pin TDFN package with exposed paddle thermally and electrically connected to GND. The package supports high thermal efficiency (1951.2mW at +70°C) and requires PCB land pattern per MO229/WEEA standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator with current-limiting applications.

Compared with MAX4832EUT33C+, the TDFN package of MAX4832ETT33C+ delivers 2.7× higher power dissipation capability, while MAX4834ETT33C+ offers 2.5× higher current capacity without changing PCB layout-enabling scalable power design with minimal redesign effort.

Availability

MAX4832ETT33C+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB port protection, SDIO interface power, and notebook standby rail applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX4832ETT33C+ 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, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX4832/MAX4833 family was designed specifically for portable and battery-powered systems needing accurate current-limited 3.3V/2.5V/1.8V rails with fault reporting-targeting USB, SDIO, and cellular baseband power domains.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for MAX4832ETT33C+?

The absolute maximum input voltage for MAX4832ETT33C+ is +6V referenced to GND. However, the recommended operating range is 2.5V to 5.5V. Exceeding 5.5V may trigger undervoltage lockout hysteresis or stress internal protection circuits, so system design must ensure VIN stays within specification during transients. MAX4832ETT33C+ includes input undervoltage lockout with 2.25V threshold and 50mV hysteresis.

Does MAX4832ETT33C+ provide output discharge during shutdown?

No, MAX4832ETT33C+ does not include output discharge functionality. That feature is exclusive to the MAX4833 RESET variants (e.g., MAX4833ETT33B+), which integrate a 900Ω internal discharge path from OUT to GND in shutdown mode. MAX4832ETT33C+ relies on external circuitry or system-level discharge paths, making it suitable for applications where controlled discharge timing is managed elsewhere. This distinction is confirmed in the Selector Guide and Pin Description sections of the datasheet.

How is the FLAG output of MAX4832ETT33C+ configured and used?

The FLAG output of MAX4832ETT33C+ is an open-drain, active-low signal that asserts when load current exceeds 115–135mA for longer than the blanking time (5–17ms). It remains latched low until IN or SHDN is toggled high→low→high. An external pull-up resistor (typically 10kΩ to VCC) is required. This behavior enables reliable fault detection in microcontroller systems where software-controlled recovery is preferred over automatic reset. MAX4832ETT33C+'s FLAG differs from RESET variants by providing persistent fault indication rather than timed assertion.

What capacitor values are required for stable operation of MAX4832ETT33C+?

MAX4832ETT33C+ requires a minimum 3.3µF ceramic output capacitor (X7R or better) with ESR <0.2Ω for stability across -40°C to +85°C and up to 100mA load. A 0.1µF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND is also mandatory for input filtering. For improved noise suppression and transient response, 10µF output capacitance is recommended. These values are validated in the Applications Information section and Typical Operating Characteristics plots (toc06, toc07).

Can MAX4832ETT33C+ be used in place of MAX4833ETT33B+?

No, MAX4832ETT33C+ cannot directly replace MAX4833ETT33B+ because they implement fundamentally different fault-reporting mechanisms: MAX4832ETT33C+ uses latched open-drain FLAG for overcurrent, while MAX4833ETT33B+ uses push-pull RESET for output undervoltage. Their pin 4 functions differ (FLAG vs. RESET), and MAX4833 includes shutdown discharge and reset timeout logic absent in MAX4832ETT33C+. Substitution would require firmware and schematic changes. Always verify functional alignment before interchange.