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 (50–200mV), 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 its 5ppm/°C max temperature coefficient and ±2mV initial accuracy. Its internal compensation eliminates need for external capacitors, and its supply current varies only 3.2–8.0µA/V across input voltage range.

This series-mode reference operates with input as low as VOUT + 200mV (3.2V min), supports continuous short-circuit to GND, and delivers stable output into 1µF capacitive loads. Its 100–120µA quiescent current and 0.1% turn-on settling in 115µs enable rapid, efficient power-up in battery-powered systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6163AESA 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.), internally unconnected; Pin 2 is IN (input voltage), Pin 4 is GND (ground reference), and Pin 6 is OUT (precision 3.000V output).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADR3430ARJZ-R7 and REF3330AIDBVR, MAX6163AESA provides superior temperature stability (5ppm/°C vs. 10ppm/°C), bidirectional current capability (±2mA), and lower noise-making it preferred for metrology-grade and mixed-signal SoC reference applications despite larger SO-8 footprint.

Availability

MAX6163AESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable battery-powered systems, high-resolution data acquisition, and precision +3V systems requiring stable component supply, long-term calibration integrity, and extended industrial temperature operation.

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 industrial, automotive, communications, and computing 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 compensation 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 for driving multiple ADC references or op-amp bias networks. 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 up to 1µF, and many applications-including space-critical portable designs-operate reliably with no output capacitor. Adding ≥0.1µF improves transient response during step-load events but is optional per design requirements.

What is the minimum input voltage required for MAX6163AESA to regulate at 3.000V?

The minimum input voltage for MAX6163AESA is VOUT + 200mV = 3.2V, as specified in the datasheet. At 1mA load, dropout voltage is guaranteed ≤200mV, meaning the device maintains regulation down to 3.2V input. Below this, output voltage drops linearly with input; operation below 3.2V is not guaranteed to meet accuracy or tempco specifications.

How does the long-term stability of MAX6163AESA impact calibration intervals in precision instruments?

MAX6163AESA exhibits 80ppm drift over 1000 hours at +25°C, equivalent to ±0.24mV at 3.000V. In a precision instrument requiring 0.05% full-scale accuracy (±1.5mV), this drift contributes <17% of the total allowable error over 42 days of continuous operation. Therefore, MAX6163AESA supports calibration intervals of several months in stable environments, reducing maintenance frequency compared to references with >200ppm/1000hr drift.

Can MAX6163AESA be used in applications requiring output short-circuit protection?

Yes, MAX6163AESA provides robust short-circuit protection: it can sustain continuous short-circuit to GND when VIN ≤ 6V, and withstand short-circuit to GND or IN for up to 60 seconds when VIN > 6V. This allows safe use in test fixtures and fault-tolerant power supplies where accidental shorts may occur during probing or connector mating-without requiring external current-limiting circuitry.