Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX604EPA+

Overview

The MAX604EPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout, low-quiescent-current linear regulator with fixed 3.3V output and adjustable mode capability (1.25V–11V), featuring a 500mA P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, 240mV dropout at 200mA, and 15μA typical quiescent current - designed for battery-powered portable instruments and solar-powered devices.

For engineers reviewing the MAX604EPA+ datasheet, MAX604EPA+ pinout, MAX604EPA+ application, or MAX604EPA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, thermal behavior under load, Dual Mode™ feedback configuration, reverse-current protection threshold (6–20mV), and design-critical package-level thermal management guidance for the 8-pin plastic DIP.

Technical Context

The MAX604EPA+ implements a 1.20V bandgap reference, error amplifier, MOSFET driver, and dual-mode comparator to select between internal fixed-output regulation (3.3V) or external resistor-adjustable output (1.25V–11V). Its P-channel pass transistor eliminates base-drive current, enabling stable 15μA IQ across load and temperature.

Reverse-current protection activates when VIN falls 6–20mV below VOUT, switching substrate bias to limit reverse leakage to ≤0.01μA. Foldback current limiting provides 350mA short-circuit protection below 0.8V output and 1.2A limiting above 0.8V with sufficient VIN–VOUT margin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX604EPA+ uses an 8-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with through-hole mounting and 0.300" wide body. GND pins (2,3,6,7) serve as thermal conduction paths; all must be soldered to large copper areas for reliable 1.8W power dissipation at TA = +70°C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout, low-IQ linear regulator applications.

Compared with TPS76333QDBVRQ1 and MCP1703T-3302E/MB, the MAX604EPA+ uniquely combines 500mA capability, Dual Mode™ adjustability, reverse-current protection, and thermal hysteresis - making it optimal for high-reliability, battery-optimized portable instrumentation where supply fault resilience and flexible output configuration are critical.

Availability

MAX604EPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, solar-powered environmental monitors, and industrial handheld testers requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and full traceability.

Supply support for MAX604EPA+ 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, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX603/MAX604 product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, battery-critical systems - emphasizing minimal quiescent current, reverse-current resilience, and thermal robustness in compact packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current for MAX604EPA+ at 3.3V output?

The MAX604EPA+ delivers up to 300mA continuously at 3.3V output under standard conditions (TA = +70°C, proper PCB thermal layout). At higher ambient temperatures or with limited copper area, derating applies - e.g., 200mA at TA = +85°C with minimal heatsinking. The 500mA rating is absolute maximum and requires strict thermal management per Figure 4 in the datasheet.

Does MAX604EPA+ support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, MAX604EPA+ supports adjustable output from 1.25V to 11V using external resistors on the SET pin. Connect R1 between OUT and SET, R2 between SET and GND. Output follows VOUT = 1.20V × (1 + R1/R2). The SET pin draws only ±10nA, enabling high-value resistors (up to 1.5MΩ for R2) to minimize power loss.

What is the reverse-current protection behavior of MAX604EPA+, and how does it differ from a blocking diode?

MAX604EPA+ activates reverse-current protection when VIN drops 6–20mV below VOUT, switching internal substrate bias to isolate IN from OUT and limiting reverse leakage to ≤0.01μA. Unlike a Schottky diode (300–500mV forward drop), this scheme adds zero voltage loss in normal operation and zero power dissipation during backup switchover.

Can MAX604EPA+ be used with input voltages below 2.7V?

No - the absolute minimum input voltage for MAX604EPA+ is 2.7V (per datasheet Electrical Characteristics table). Operation below this violates Absolute Maximum Ratings and risks improper regulation, increased dropout, or failure to start. For sub-2.7V inputs, consider dedicated ultra-low-VIN regulators like the MAX1725 or TPS7A05.

How does the thermal shutdown hysteresis affect system reliability in MAX604EPA+?

MAX604EPA+ shuts down at +160°C junction temperature and re-enables only after cooling by 10°C (to +150°C), preventing rapid on/off cycling during overload. This hysteresis ensures stable thermal recovery and avoids repeated stress on the pass transistor - critical for field-deployed instruments exposed to transient ambient spikes or intermittent high-load events.