Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6301CSA+T

Overview

The MAX6301CSA+T from Maxim Integrated is an adjustable low-power microprocessor supervisory circuit with active-low open-drain reset output, 4µA supply current, 1.22V internal reference, and configurable reset/watchdog timeout via external capacitors. It monitors VCC or other supply rails in battery-powered embedded controllers requiring reliable brownout detection and watchdog supervision.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6301CSA+T datasheet, MAX6301CSA+T pinout, MAX6301CSA+T application, or MAX6301CSA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its guaranteed RESET assertion down to VCC = 1V, 500× watchdog timeout multiplier via WDS pin, power-supply transient immunity up to 100mV/50µs, and compatibility with 8-pin SO package layouts for space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MAX6301CSA+T implements a precision 1.22V bandgap reference feeding a high-impedance reset comparator whose threshold is set externally via resistor divider on RESET IN. Its reset timeout (tRP) and watchdog timeout (tWD) are independently controlled by capacitor values on SRT and SWT pins using a 2.67 µA precision current source.

Watchdog operation supports two modes: normal mode (WDS = GND, tWD in ms) and extended mode (WDS = VCC, tWD × 500 in seconds), with automatic timer clearing on WDI/WDS transitions or RESET assertion. The open-drain RESET output ensures safe interfacing with bidirectional µP reset pins and allows wired-OR configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6301CSA+T is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package per JEDEC MS-012, with 1.27mm pitch and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX6303CSA+T, the MAX6301CSA+T offers safer reset bus sharing via open-drain output but requires a pullup; compared with TPS3808G01DBVR, it delivers full programmable supervision at higher component count but enables robust fault recovery in safety-critical firmware.

Availability

MAX6301CSA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical equipment, battery-powered data loggers, and industrial PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX6301CSA+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 precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for demanding industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX6301–MAX6304 family was engineered specifically for low-power microprocessor supervision in portable and embedded systems where adjustable reset thresholds, watchdog flexibility, and ultra-low ICC are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC required for guaranteed RESET assertion in MAX6301CSA+T?

The MAX6301CSA+T guarantees RESET output is asserted (low) for VCC ≥ 1V. Below 1V, the open-drain driver's sink capability degrades, and external pulldown may be needed for deterministic behavior. This specification ensures reliable reset initiation during brownout conditions before the µP loses functional integrity.

Can MAX6301CSA+T monitor voltages other than VCC?

Yes - the MAX6301CSA+T monitors any DC voltage applied to the RESET IN pin via an external resistor divider. The device compares this voltage against its internal 1.22V reference, enabling supervision of 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, or custom rails. Layout best practices require short, low-leakage traces to RESET IN to preserve accuracy.

How does the WDS pin affect watchdog timeout in MAX6301CSA+T?

The WDS pin selects watchdog mode: grounded for normal mode (tWD in milliseconds), or tied to VCC for extended mode (tWD × 500 in seconds). A state change on WDS immediately clears and restarts the watchdog timer. This dual-mode architecture allows one hardware design to support both fast fault recovery and ultra-low-power wake-up timing.

What capacitor types are recommended for SRT and SWT on MAX6301CSA+T?

Ceramic capacitors with leakage <10nA are recommended for SRT and SWT. These pins connect to 2.67µA precision current sources; high-leakage dielectrics (e.g., standard electrolytic or certain X7R ceramics) cause timing errors. NP0/C0G ceramics are optimal for stability across temperature and voltage.

Is MAX6301CSA+T RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes - MAX6301CSA+T is RoHS-compliant and lead(Pb)-free. The "+T" suffix explicitly denotes tape-and-reel packaging with lead-free terminations per JEDEC J-STD-020. No additional suffix is required; the "+" symbol alone indicates RoHS compliance per Maxim's ordering convention.