Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6161BESA+T

Overview

The MAX6161BESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-dropout, micropower series voltage reference delivering a stable 1.25V output with ±4mV initial accuracy and 15ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over -40°C to +85°C. It operates from (VOUT + 200mV) to 12.6V, sources up to 4mA, sinks 2mA, and draws only 100μA typical quiescent current-ideal for high-accuracy ADC biasing in portable battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6161BESA+T datasheet, MAX6161BESA+T pinout, MAX6161BESA+T application, or MAX6161BESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 200mV max dropout at 1mA, no external capacitor requirement, 1μF load stability, ±4mV initial tolerance, and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained, low-power precision analog designs.

Technical Context

This three-terminal series voltage reference uses proprietary curvature-correction circuitry and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve ultra-low drift and high initial accuracy. Its internal compensation eliminates need for external stabilization capacitors, reducing board area and design complexity.

The device features supply-current independence (≤8μA/V variation), stable operation with 1μF capacitive loads, and robust short-circuit protection-continuous to GND or IN when VIN ≤ 6V, and rated for 60s when VIN > 6V-enabling reliable integration into battery-operated and industrial sensing systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6161BESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad not electrically connected. Pin 1–3, 5, 7, and 8 are No Connect (N.C.), Pin 2 is IN (input voltage), Pin 4 is GND (ground reference), and Pin 6 is OUT (precision reference output).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF191GSZ-REEL and ADR3412ARJZ-R7, the MAX6161BESA+T offers superior dropout performance (200mV vs ≥300mV) and capacitor-free operation-making it optimal for ultra-low-voltage, space-constrained applications where 1.25V output and ±4mV tolerance are acceptable.

Availability

MAX6161BESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable battery-powered systems, precision ADC reference circuits, and notebook computer subsystems requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for MAX6161BESA+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 is a semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, sensing, and communications.

The MAX6161–MAX6168 family was designed for high-accuracy, low-power voltage referencing in portable, industrial, and instrumentation applications where micropower operation and minimal external components are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum load current the MAX6161BESA+T can source?

The MAX6161BESA+T can source up to 4mA while maintaining specified accuracy and regulation. This capability supports driving ADC reference inputs, op-amp bias networks, and small sensor excitation circuits without external buffering. Exceeding 4mA may degrade output voltage accuracy and increase temperature-induced drift beyond the 15ppm/°C specification. The MAX6161BESA+T datasheet confirms this limit under "Electrical Characteristics-MAX6161" with load regulation tested from 0 to 4mA.

Does the MAX6161BESA+T require an external output capacitor?

No, the MAX6161BESA+T does not require an external output capacitor for stability due to its internally compensated architecture. It remains stable with capacitive loads up to 1μF, and many designs operate reliably with no output capacitor-saving PCB area and BOM cost. An optional 0.1μF ceramic capacitor may be added at the output to improve transient response if step-load changes exceed 4mA. This behavior is explicitly stated in the "Applications Information" section of the MAX6161BESA+T datasheet.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX6161BESA+T to regulate properly?

The minimum input voltage for the MAX6161BESA+T is VOUT + 200mV = 1.45V, based on its 200mV max dropout voltage at 1mA load. Below this threshold, regulation degrades and output voltage follows input minus dropout. The device remains functional down to 1.25V but cannot maintain 1.25V output. This specification is confirmed in both the "General Description" and "Electrical Characteristics" tables for MAX6161BESA+T, where dropout is defined at IOUT = 1mA.

How does the MAX6161BESA+T compare to shunt-mode references in terms of supply efficiency?

The MAX6161BESA+T draws only ~100μA quiescent current independent of input voltage, whereas shunt-mode references require a series resistor sized for worst-case load-wasting current continuously. For example, a 5V-supplied shunt reference biased for 4mA load consumes ≥4mA even at zero load, while the MAX6161BESA+T draws just 100μA regardless. This makes the MAX6161BESA+T vastly more efficient in battery-powered applications, directly extending operational life. The datasheet highlights this advantage in the "Applications Information" section on supply current.

Is the MAX6161BESA+T RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX6161BESA+T is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, as indicated by the "+" suffix in the part number per Maxim Integrated's ordering information. The "+" denotes a lead(Pb)-free package conforming to EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. The device uses a standard SO-8 package with matte tin lead finish and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 3. Full compliance documentation, including material declarations, is available through Maxim Integrated's quality portal for the MAX6161BESA+T.