Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6166AESA+

Overview

The MAX6166AESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-dropout, micropower series voltage reference delivering a stable 2.500V output with ±2mV initial accuracy and 5ppm/°C max temperature coefficient over -40°C to +85°C. It sources up to 5mA load current, features 200mV max dropout at 1mA, draws only 100μA typical quiescent current, and operates from (VOUT + 0.2V) to 12.6V input-ideal for high-accuracy ADC biasing in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6166AESA+ datasheet, MAX6166AESA+ pinout, MAX6166AESA+ application, or MAX6166AESA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.5V output tolerance, ultra-low tempco, supply-independent quiescent current, no-external-capacitor stability, and SO-8 package compatibility with space-constrained, battery-powered precision analog systems.

Technical Context

This three-terminal series voltage reference uses proprietary curvature-correction circuitry and laser-trimmed thin-film resistors to achieve 5ppm/°C max TCVOUT and ±2mV max initial error. Its internal compensation eliminates need for external stabilization capacitors, while its 8μA/V max ΔI_IN/ΔV_IN ensures supply current remains stable across input voltage variations from 2.7V to 12.6V.

Designed for high-output-current operation, the MAX6166AESA+ delivers 5mA sourcing capability with only 0.9mV/mA load regulation and supports capacitive loads up to 1μF without oscillation. Its 200mV max dropout at 1mA enables use in low-voltage systems where headroom is constrained, and its 27µV_p-p (0.1Hz–10Hz) noise supports high-resolution data acquisition.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6166AESA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad (RoHS-compliant, lead-free). Pin 1, 3, 5, 7, and 8 are No Connect (N.C.), internally unconnected. Functional pins are isolated to minimize parasitic coupling and simplify PCB layout in noise-sensitive applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with REF5025IDR and ADR3425ARJZ-R7, the MAX6166AESA+ offers best-in-class balance of 5ppm/°C tempco, capacitor-free operation, and 5mA drive strength-making it optimal for mid-performance portable instrumentation where reliability, simplicity, and moderate accuracy converge.

Availability

MAX6166AESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable multimeters, industrial transmitters, medical ECG front-ends, and battery-operated data loggers requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and traceable lot control.

Supply support for MAX6166AESA+ 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, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX6161–MAX6168 family was engineered specifically for precision, low-power, low-dropout voltage referencing in space- and battery-constrained systems-emphasizing accuracy, stability, and ease of integration without external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum load current the MAX6166AESA+ can source while maintaining specification?

The MAX6166AESA+ is specified to source up to 5mA of load current while maintaining its 0.9mV/mA load regulation and 2.500V ±2mV output accuracy. At 5mA, total output deviation remains within ±4.5mV due to load regulation alone-well within the ±2mV initial tolerance band when combined with thermal and long-term drift margins. This makes the MAX6166AESA+ suitable for driving ADC references, op-amp bias networks, and small sensor bridges without external buffering.

Does the MAX6166AESA+ require an external output capacitor for stability?

No, the MAX6166AESA+ does not require an external output capacitor for stability. Its internally compensated architecture ensures unconditional stability with capacitive loads from 0 to 1µF. While adding a 0.1µF–1µF ceramic capacitor improves transient response during load steps, omitting it saves board space and reduces BOM cost-critical in compact, high-volume portable instruments where the MAX6166AESA+ is commonly deployed.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX6166AESA+ to regulate at 2.500V?

The MAX6166AESA+ requires a minimum input voltage of V_OUT + 0.2V = 2.7V to maintain regulation at 2.500V under all conditions. Its 200mV max dropout voltage at 1mA load ensures reliable operation down to 2.7V, enabling direct use with single-cell Li-ion (2.7–4.2V) or two-series alkaline (2.7–3.2V) supplies-common configurations in handheld test equipment and wireless sensors where the MAX6166AESA+ serves as the primary voltage reference.

How does the MAX6166AESA+ compare to shunt voltage references in terms of supply current efficiency?

Unlike shunt references-which waste current through a series resistor and draw fixed bias current regardless of load-the MAX6166AESA+ draws only 100μA quiescent current that varies just 8μA/V with input voltage. It supplies load current on-demand from the input rail, eliminating wasted current. In a 3.3V system powering a 2mA ADC reference, the MAX6166AESA+ consumes ~102μA total, whereas a typical shunt reference would draw ≥2.2mA-yielding >20× improvement in supply efficiency and significantly extending battery life in devices using the MAX6166AESA+.

Is the MAX6166AESA+ compatible with standard SO-8 PCB footprints and reflow profiles?

Yes, the MAX6166AESA+ uses a standard 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package with outline number 21-0041 and land pattern 90-0096, fully compatible with IPC-7351B SOIC-8 footprints. It is RoHS-compliant (lead-free) and rated for standard Pb-free reflow profiles per JEDEC J-STD-020, including peak temperatures up to +260°C. This ensures seamless integration into automated SMT lines used for manufacturing portable instrumentation and industrial modules where the MAX6166AESA+ is routinely applied.