Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6162BESA+T

Overview

The MAX6162BESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-dropout, micropower series voltage reference delivering a stable 2.048V output with ±5mV initial accuracy and 4–10ppm/°C temperature coefficient over -40°C to +85°C. It sources up to 5mA, sinks 2mA, operates from (V_OUT + 200mV) to 12.6V, and draws only 100–120μA quiescent current - ideal for high-accuracy ADC biasing in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6162BESA+T datasheet, MAX6162BESA+T pinout, MAX6162BESA+T application, or MAX6162BESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.048V output (optimized for 12-bit DAC/ADC full-scale), ultra-low 200mV dropout at 1mA, no external capacitor requirement, and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This three-terminal series voltage reference uses curvature-correction circuitry and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve tight initial accuracy and low thermal drift. Its internal compensation eliminates need for external stability capacitors, and supply current varies by only 3.4–8.0μA/V across input voltage range.

Designed for precision analog signal chains, it supports sourcing and sinking load currents without performance degradation, maintains stability with ≥1μF capacitive loads, and delivers low noise (22μV_p-p, 0.1Hz–10Hz) and high PSRR (78dB at 120Hz) - critical for metrology-grade data acquisition systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6162BESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad (RoHS-compliant, lead-free). Pins 1, 3, 5, 7, and 8 are No Connect (N.C.), internally unconnected.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF5020IDR and ADR441ARMZ, the MAX6162BESA+T offers the best balance of industrial-grade accuracy (±5mV), ultra-low dropout (200mV), and micropower operation (100μA) in a standard SO-8 package - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-operated instrumentation where 0.25% total error is acceptable.

Availability

MAX6162BESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable digital multimeters, industrial data acquisition modules, and medical patient monitors requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.

Supply support for MAX6162BESA+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 and mixed-signal ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX6161–MAX6168 family was engineered specifically for high-accuracy, low-power voltage referencing in portable and space-constrained systems - emphasizing micropower operation, low dropout, and elimination of external compensation components.

FAQ

What is the maximum load current the MAX6162BESA+T can source while maintaining specification?

The MAX6162BESA+T can source up to 5mA while maintaining its specified load regulation of 0.5–0.9mV/mA and output voltage accuracy. At 5mA, the output voltage change remains within ±4.5mV of nominal 2.048V, ensuring reliable operation when driving multiple ADC reference inputs or op-amp bias networks directly. Exceeding 5mA may cause deviation beyond guaranteed specifications.

Does the MAX6162BESA+T require an external output capacitor for stability?

No, the MAX6162BESA+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 applications operate reliably with zero external capacitance - a key advantage for space-constrained PCBs. Adding ≥0.1μF improves transient response during step-load changes but is optional.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX6162BESA+T to regulate properly?

The MAX6162BESA+T requires a minimum input voltage of V_OUT + 200mV = 2.248V to maintain regulation. This 200mV dropout is guaranteed up to 1mA load; at higher loads, dropout increases to a maximum of 200mV. Below 2.248V input, the device enters dropout mode and output voltage drops linearly with input - critical for brown-out detection in battery-powered systems using this reference.

How does the MAX6162BESA+T compare to shunt voltage references in terms of supply current efficiency?

Unlike shunt references that waste current through a series resistor, the MAX6162BESA+T draws only 100–120μA quiescent current independent of input voltage (ΔI_IN/ΔV_IN ≤ 8.0μA/V). This eliminates wasted bias current, maximizes battery life, and avoids the need to size resistors for worst-case load - making it significantly more efficient than shunt alternatives like TL431 in portable applications.

Is the MAX6162BESA+T compatible with standard SO-8 footprints and reflow profiles?

Yes, the MAX6162BESA+T uses a standard 8-pin SO package (package code S8+2, outline 21-0041) with RoHS-compliant lead-free finish. It is compatible with IPC-7351B SOIC-8 land patterns and withstands JEDEC J-STD-020D reflow profiles, including peak temperatures up to +260°C for 30 seconds. The exposed pad variant enhances thermal performance but does not require solder connection for basic operation.