Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6163AESA+

Overview

MAX6163AESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-dropout, micropower series voltage reference delivering a stable 3.000V output with ±2mV initial accuracy and 5ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over -40°C to +85°C. It sources up to 5mA, sinks 2mA, operates from (VOUT + 200mV) to 12.6V, and requires no external compensation capacitor-ideal for high-accuracy ADC biasing in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6163AESA+ datasheet, MAX6163AESA+ pinout, MAX6163AESA+ application, or MAX6163AESA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 1mA (≤200mV), load regulation (0.5–0.9mV/mA sourcing), long-term stability (80ppm/1000hr), noise performance (35µVp-p, 0.1Hz–10Hz), and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX6163AESA+ employs a proprietary curvature-correction circuit and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve ultra-low thermal drift. Its BiCMOS process enables stable operation across input voltages from 3.2V to 12.6V while maintaining supply current variation of only 3.2–8.0µA/V.

This series-mode reference eliminates external biasing resistors and compensation capacitors. Its output remains stable with ≥1µF capacitive loads, and it delivers 0.1% turn-on settling in 115µs (C_OUT = 50pF), supporting fast-sampling data acquisition systems requiring minimal power overhead.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6163AESA+ 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.); Pin 2 is IN (input voltage), Pin 4 is GND (ground), 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 REF3330AIDBVR and ADR3430ARJZ-R7, MAX6163AESA+ delivers superior initial accuracy (±2mV), lower tempco (5ppm/°C), and higher output drive (5mA), making it optimal for metrology-grade systems where reference-induced error must be minimized.

Availability

MAX6163AESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation, industrial transmitters, medical diagnostics, and battery-powered data loggers requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX6163AESA+ 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 space- and energy-constrained systems-emphasizing micropower operation, low dropout, and elimination of external passive components.

FAQ

What is the maximum load current that MAX6163AESA+ can source while maintaining specification?

MAX6163AESA+ 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 3.000V, ensuring reliable operation in multi-channel ADC biasing and precision DAC reference applications. Exceeding 5mA may degrade regulation and increase dropout voltage beyond 200mV.

Does MAX6163AESA+ require an external output capacitor for stability?

No, MAX6163AESA+ does not require an external output capacitor for stability due to its internally compensated architecture. The device remains stable with capacitive loads from 0 to ≥1µF. An optional 0.1µF ceramic capacitor may be added at the output to improve transient response during rapid load steps, but omission saves board space and reduces BOM cost without compromising stability.

What is the minimum input voltage required for MAX6163AESA+ to regulate at full accuracy?

The minimum input voltage for MAX6163AESA+ is VOUT + 200mV = 3.2V. At 1mA load, dropout is guaranteed ≤200mV, so regulation with full ±2mV accuracy and 5ppm/°C tempco is maintained down to 3.2V. Operation below 3.2V results in loss of regulation and increasing output error proportional to the deficit.

How does the supply current of MAX6163AESA+ vary with input voltage?

MAX6163AESA+ exhibits supply current variation of only 3.2–8.0µA/V across its input range (3.2V to 12.6V), resulting in total change of <76µA. This near-constant 100–120µA quiescent current-unlike shunt references whose current scales with VIN-enables predictable power budgeting and extended battery life in variable-supply applications such as USB-powered test gear.

Can MAX6163AESA+ sink current, and what is its rated sink capability?

Yes, MAX6163AESA+ can sink up to 2mA while maintaining specified performance. Its sinking capability supports applications requiring bidirectional reference loading, such as precision current-source calibration circuits or active filter biasing. Load regulation during sinking is 1.8–5.0mV/mA, and short-circuit current to ground is 110mA-ensuring robustness against accidental output shorts.