Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6164AESA+T

Overview

MAX6164AESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-dropout, micropower series voltage reference delivering a stable 4.096V 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 MAX6164AESA+T datasheet, MAX6164AESA+T pinout, MAX6164AESA+T application, or MAX6164AESA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include output stability under load transients, ultra-low supply current variation (<8μA/V), dropout voltage ≤200mV at 1mA, noise performance (50µV_p-p, 0.1Hz–10Hz), and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX6164AESA+T employs a proprietary curvature-correction circuit and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve its 5ppm/°C max TCV_OUT and ±2mV initial accuracy. Its internal compensation eliminates need for external capacitors, enabling stable operation with 1µF capacitive loads while maintaining 72dB ripple rejection at 120Hz.

As a three-terminal series-mode reference, it draws only 100–120µA quiescent current-virtually independent of input voltage-and supports sourcing/sinking without external biasing. Dropout voltage is specified at 50–200mV (I_OUT = 1mA), enabling use in low-voltage systems where headroom is constrained.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6164AESA+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. Pin 2 is IN (input voltage), Pin 4 is GND (ground reference), and Pin 6 is OUT (precision 4.096V output).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADR4540BRZ and REF5040AIDR, the MAX6164AESA+T trades minor initial accuracy (±2mV vs. ±0.5–1.5mV) and slightly higher TCV_OUT (5ppm/°C vs. 3ppm/°C) for dramatically lower quiescent current (100µA vs. 950µA), enabling multi-year operation in energy-harvested or coin-cell-powered devices where efficiency is paramount.

Availability

MAX6164AESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable DMMs, industrial data loggers, and medical patient monitors requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX6164AESA+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 high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for precision, power, and interface applications.

The MAX6161–MAX6168 family was engineered specifically for battery-operated, high-accuracy measurement systems requiring micropower consumption, low dropout, and uncompromised voltage stability-targeting portable instrumentation, sensor interfaces, and precision data acquisition.

FAQ

What is the maximum load current the MAX6164AESA+T can source while maintaining specification?

The MAX6164AESA+T can source up to 5mA while maintaining its specified load regulation of 0.6–0.9mV/mA and output voltage accuracy. At 5mA, the total output voltage shift remains within ±4.5mV of nominal 4.096V, ensuring compatibility with 12-bit ADCs and precision analog circuits. Exceeding 5mA may degrade regulation and increase dropout voltage beyond 200mV.

Does the MAX6164AESA+T require an external output capacitor for stability?

No, the MAX6164AESA+T does not require an external output capacitor for frequency stability due to internal compensation. It remains stable with capacitive loads up to 1µF. An optional 0.1µF ceramic capacitor at the OUT pin improves transient response during step-load changes, but omission saves board space in size-constrained applications without compromising stability.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX6164AESA+T to regulate at full 4.096V output?

The MAX6164AESA+T requires a minimum input voltage of V_OUT + 200mV = 4.296V to maintain regulation at full 4.096V output under 1mA load, per datasheet dropout specification. At higher loads or elevated temperatures, the dropout voltage may approach 200mV, so a 4.35V minimum supply is recommended for robust margin across process and temperature extremes.

How does the MAX6164AESA+T compare to shunt voltage references in terms of power efficiency?

The MAX6164AESA+T draws only 100–120µA quiescent current-nearly independent of input voltage-whereas shunt references require a series resistor sized for worst-case load, wasting current continuously. This makes the MAX6164AESA+T significantly more efficient, especially in battery-powered systems where supply voltage varies; it draws current only when actively supplying load, extending operational life.

Is the MAX6164AESA+T compatible with standard SO-8 footprints and reflow profiles?

Yes, the MAX6164AESA+T uses a standard 8-pin SO package (outline 21-0041, land pattern 90-0096) with RoHS-compliant lead-free finish. It is compatible with IPC-7351B SOIC-8 footprints and withstands standard Pb-free reflow profiles (peak 260°C, 10s max), including JEDEC J-STD-020D. The exposed pad variant (ESA+) requires appropriate thermal pad design per Maxim's package documentation.