Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6126A21+T

Overview

MAX6126A21+T from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-high-precision, ultra-low-noise series voltage reference delivering 2.048V output with ±0.06% initial accuracy, 3ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over –40°C to +125°C, and 1.3μV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) flicker noise. It operates from 2.7V to 12.6V supply, supports ±10mA load current, and features force/sense outputs for remote sensing in high-resolution ADC/DAC biasing and precision current sources.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6126A21+T datasheet, MAX6126A21+T pinout, MAX6126A21+T application, or MAX6126A21+T equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, package mapping, real-world use cases, and validated alternative options - all aligned to the exact µMAX-8 variant with 2.048V output and A-grade tempco.

Technical Context

The MAX6126A21+T employs curvature-correction circuitry and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve 3ppm/°C max TCV_OUT across –40°C to +125°C. Its proprietary low-noise architecture separates wideband and flicker noise paths, enabling 60nV/√Hz (1kHz, no NR cap) and 35nV/√Hz (1kHz, 0.1μF NR cap) without increased quiescent current.

It implements true Kelvin force/sense topology: OUTF supplies load current while OUTS and GNDS form a high-impedance feedback path to regulate voltage at the load point, eliminating IR drop errors in long traces or PCB routing. Dropout is as low as 60mV at 5mA load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6126A21+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3.0mm × 3.0mm, 0.8mm height), optimized for space-constrained industrial and automotive PCBs. Pin 1 is NR (Noise Reduction), Pin 2 is IN, Pin 3 is GND, Pin 4 is GNDS, Pins 5 and 8 are internally connected (NC), Pin 6 is OUTS, and Pin 7 is OUTF.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar voltage reference applications.

Compared with ADR4520BRZ and REF5020AIDR, the MAX6126A21+T offers lower quiescent current (380μA vs. >950μA), integrated noise reduction, and true force/sense outputs - making it optimal for portable, high-accuracy, and long-cable applications where power, noise, and layout-induced errors must be minimized.

Availability

MAX6126A21+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution data acquisition, precision industrial current loops, digital voltmeter front-ends, and ATE reference standard modules requiring stable component supply across automotive and industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX6126A21+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX6126 series targets ultra-high-accuracy, ultra-low-noise voltage references for metrology, test equipment, and high-end data converters - emphasizing stability, low drift, and noise performance over cost or integration density.

FAQ

What is the maximum dropout voltage specification for MAX6126A21+T at 10mA load current?

The MAX6126A21+T has a maximum dropout voltage of 400mV at 10mA load current, defined as the minimum (VIN – VOUT) required to maintain output regulation within 0.1% of nominal 2.048V. Typical dropout is 120mV under the same conditions, enabling efficient operation in low-headroom systems.

Can MAX6126A21+T drive a 10μF output capacitor without instability?

Yes, the MAX6126A21+T is explicitly specified to be stable with output capacitance from 0.1μF to 10μF. This includes ceramic, tantalum, and aluminum electrolytic types. No external compensation is needed, and phase margin remains sufficient across temperature and load conditions.

How does the NR (noise reduction) pin function in MAX6126A21+T?

The NR pin on MAX6126A21+T accepts an external 0.1μF capacitor to shunt high-frequency noise from the internal reference core. With this capacitor, wideband noise drops from 60nV/√Hz to 35nV/√Hz at 1kHz, and 0.1Hz–10Hz flicker noise improves from 1.3μV_P-P to 0.9μV_P-P. Leaving NR unconnected retains baseline noise performance.

What is the purpose of separate GNDS and GND pins on MAX6126A21+T?

The GNDS pin provides a dedicated low-impedance sense path for the ground reference used by the internal error amplifier, while GND serves as the power return for internal circuitry. Connecting GNDS directly to the load's ground point cancels voltage drop in the ground return path - essential for achieving sub-0.01% accuracy in precision current sources and remote-sensing applications.

Is MAX6126A21+T qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, MAX6126A21+T is rated for the automotive temperature range of –40°C to +125°C and is offered in a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant µMAX package. Its 3ppm/°C max tempco, 80ppm thermal hysteresis, and 100ppm/1000hr long-term stability meet AEC-Q200 stress-test expectations for reference-grade components in engine control and ADAS subsystems.