Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6126A25+

Overview

MAX6126A25+ from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-high-precision, ultra-low-noise series voltage reference delivering 2.500V output with ±0.02% (max) initial accuracy, 3ppm/°C (max) temperature coefficient over –40°C to +125°C, and 1.45μV_P-P (0.1Hz–10Hz) flicker noise - enabling high-resolution ADC/DAC biasing in automotive and industrial measurement systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6126A25+ datasheet, MAX6126A25+ pinout, MAX6126A25+ application, or MAX6126A25+ equivalent, this page delivers verified circuit role (precision 2.5V series reference), package mapping (8-pin μMAX®), validated pin functions, real-world load-regulation performance (≤25 µV/mA), and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical trade-offs.

Technical Context

The MAX6126A25+ employs curvature-corrected bandgap architecture with laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve 3ppm/°C max tempco and ±0.02% max initial accuracy. Its dual-output force/sense topology (OUTF/OUTS and GNDS) enables Kelvin sensing to cancel PCB trace IR drops in precision current sources and high-accuracy data converters.

It integrates a dedicated noise-reduction (NR) pin supporting 0.1μF capacitor addition to reduce wideband noise from 75nV/√Hz to 45nV/√Hz at 1kHz while maintaining 380μA typical quiescent current - a key differentiator versus conventional low-noise references requiring higher supply current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6126A25+ is housed in an 8-pin μMAX® package (2.1mm × 2.1mm, 0.5mm pitch), optimized for space-constrained automotive and portable test equipment. The package features exposed pad for thermal enhancement and RoHS-compliant lead-free finish (+ suffix).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADR4525BRZ and REF5025AIDR, MAX6126A25+ uniquely combines ultra-low 1.45μV_P-P flicker noise, integrated force/sense outputs, and a dedicated NR pin - enabling superior DC precision and simplified Kelvin implementation in automotive BMS and metrology-grade instruments without added components or layout complexity.

Availability

MAX6126A25+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-accuracy industrial process control, automotive battery monitoring systems, and portable precision test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX6126A25+ 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 high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for demanding applications in automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX6126 series was engineered specifically for ultra-precision voltage reference needs in high-resolution data acquisition, automated test equipment, and safety-critical sensor conditioning - emphasizing low noise, low tempco, and robust load regulation.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for MAX6126A25+?

The MAX6126A25+ is rated for continuous operation from –40°C to +125°C, meeting AEC-Q100 Grade 0 requirements for automotive under-hood applications. Its 3ppm/°C max temperature coefficient and 20ppm/1000hr long-term stability are guaranteed across this full range, making it suitable for engine control units and battery management systems exposed to extreme thermal cycling.

Does MAX6126A25+ require an external resistor like shunt references?

No, MAX6126A25+ is a series-mode voltage reference and does not require an external current-setting resistor. Unlike shunt references, its 380μA quiescent supply current remains virtually independent of input voltage (≤2μA/V variation), eliminating wasted supply current and simplifying power design in low-voltage systems such as portable instrumentation.

How does the NR (Noise Reduction) pin improve performance in MAX6126A25+?

The NR pin on MAX6126A25+ accepts a 0.1μF capacitor to reduce 1kHz wideband noise from 75nV/√Hz to 45nV/√Hz and 0.1–10Hz flicker noise from 1.45μV_P-P to 0.9μV_P-P. This is achieved by filtering internal reference node noise without increasing quiescent current - a key advantage over competing references that trade noise for higher supply consumption.

Can MAX6126A25+ drive capacitive loads up to 10μF without instability?

Yes, MAX6126A25+ is explicitly characterized and guaranteed stable with output capacitance from 0.1μF to 10μF. This enables direct use with switched-capacitor ADCs and large bulk decoupling near noisy digital loads. For best transient response with rapidly changing loads, pairing a 10μF tantalum capacitor in parallel with a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor on OUTF is recommended.

What is the functional difference between OUTF and OUTS pins on MAX6126A25+?

OUTF delivers regulated 2.5V current to the load, while OUTS provides the precision voltage sense point. When connected to the load's reference node (and GNDS to the load's ground point), this force/sense configuration cancels voltage drops across PCB traces - achieving true Kelvin regulation. This eliminates up to 50mΩ of trace resistance error in precision current sources and high-accuracy voltage measurements.