Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6301CPA

Overview

MAX6301CPA from Maxim Integrated is an 8-pin PDIP-packaged, low-power microprocessor supervisory IC with adjustable reset threshold (≥1.22V), adjustable reset timeout (via external capacitor on SRT), and adjustable watchdog timeout (via SWT + WDS pin-selectable 500× extension). It features open-drain active-low RESET output, 4µA supply current, and guaranteed reset assertion down to VCC = 1V - used in battery-powered medical instruments and embedded controllers requiring brownout immunity and flexible timing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6301CPA datasheet, MAX6301CPA pinout, MAX6301CPA application, or MAX6301CPA equivalent, this page delivers verified circuit role (adjustable µP reset/watchdog supervisor), exact package (8-pin PDIP), confirmed pin functions (RESET IN, SRT, SWT, WDS, WDI), true design values (4µA ICC, 1.22V internal reference, 500× watchdog multiplier), and two validated alternative parts for functional substitution in critical monitoring systems.

Technical Context

The MAX6301CPA implements a precision bandgap-based reset comparator with 1.22V internal reference, enabling user-defined reset thresholds via external resistor divider on RESET IN. Its reset timeout is set by a current-source-driven capacitor on SRT (2.67 × CSRT in µs), while watchdog timing uses identical current-source architecture on SWT, with mode selection via WDS pin.

Watchdog operation supports two discrete modes: normal (WDS = GND, tWD in ms) and extended (WDS = VCC, tWD × 500 in seconds). The open-drain RESET output ensures compatibility with bidirectional µP reset pins and allows wired-OR configuration; reset assertion persists for the full timeout period after threshold violation or watchdog timeout.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6301CPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), compliant with JEDEC MS-001, with 0.3-inch body width and 0.1-inch lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a notch or dot; device orientation follows standard DIP top-view convention.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar µP supervisory applications.

Compared with MAX6303CPA, MAX6301CPA offers open-drain flexibility for shared reset buses and bidirectional µP interfaces, while TPS3808G01DBVR trades adjustability and watchdog capability for lower quiescent current and smaller footprint - neither is pin-compatible, requiring PCB redesign.

Availability

MAX6301CPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical instrumentation, portable diagnostic devices, industrial embedded controllers, and set-top box power management requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX6301CPA 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 power, sensing, and interface applications, with emphasis on high-reliability, low-power solutions for industrial and medical end equipment.

The MAX6301–MAX6304 family was engineered specifically for flexible, low-current µP supervision in battery-constrained and noise-prone environments - delivering adjustable reset/watchdog timing without sacrificing quiescent power or robustness.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage at which MAX6301CPA guarantees RESET assertion?

MAX6301CPA guarantees RESET output remains asserted (low) down to VCC = 1V. This ensures reliable microprocessor reset initiation even during severe brownout conditions before complete power collapse. Below 1V, RESET output behavior is not specified, and external pulldown may be needed for deterministic state - a key differentiator from higher-VCC-threshold supervisors. The guarantee applies across the full 0°C to +70°C temperature range of the MAX6301CPA.

How does the WDS pin affect watchdog timeout on MAX6301CPA?

On MAX6301CPA, the WDS pin selects between two discrete watchdog modes: when pulled to GND, it enables normal mode with timeout in milliseconds (e.g., 4.0ms with 1500pF); when pulled to VCC, it activates extended mode, multiplying the base timeout by exactly 500× (e.g., 2.0s with same capacitor). A state change on WDS immediately clears and restarts the watchdog timer - enabling dynamic mode switching, such as wake-up timer applications. This dual-mode capability is intrinsic to MAX6301CPA's architecture.

Can MAX6301CPA monitor voltages other than VCC?

Yes, MAX6301CPA can monitor any DC voltage rail by connecting it to the RESET IN pin through an external resistor divider. The internal 1.22V reference sets the trip point: VRST = 1.22 × (R1 + R2)/R2. For example, to supervise a 3.3V rail at 2.97V, use R2 = 1MΩ and R1 ≈ 1.43MΩ. Layout best practices require short, low-leakage traces to RESET IN to prevent threshold error from stray currents - a capability explicitly validated in Maxim's application notes for MAX6301CPA.

What capacitor type is recommended for SRT and SWT on MAX6301CPA?

MAX6301CPA requires low-leakage ceramic capacitors for SRT and SWT, with leakage <10nA. X7R or C0G dielectrics are preferred; aluminum electrolytic or tantalum types are unsuitable due to high leakage, which distorts the 500nA timing current and causes inaccurate timeout periods. Typical values range from 100pF to 10nF - e.g., 1500pF yields ~4ms reset timeout. This specification is confirmed in the "Selecting the Reset and Watchdog Timeout Capacitor" section of the MAX6301CPA datasheet.

Is MAX6301CPA RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, MAX6301CPA is available in both leaded and lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant versions. The standard MAX6301CPA ordering code denotes the leaded variant; to specify RoHS-compliant packaging, append a "+" symbol to the part number (i.e., MAX6301CPA+). This designation is documented in Maxim's official ordering information and package drawings, and applies to the 8-pin PDIP package used by MAX6301CPA.