Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6301EPA+

Overview

The MAX6301EPA+ from Maxim Integrated is an industrial-grade, low-power microprocessor supervisory circuit with active-low open-drain reset output, adjustable reset threshold (≥1.22V), adjustable reset timeout (via external capacitor on SRT), and adjustable watchdog timeout (via SWT) with 500× extended mode enabled by WDS pin. It operates from +2V to +5.5V and guarantees RESET assertion down to VCC = 1V, serving critical power-monitoring roles in battery-powered medical instruments and embedded controllers.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6301EPA+ datasheet, MAX6301EPA+ pinout, MAX6301EPA+ application, or MAX6301EPA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, temperature-rated package details (-40°C to +85°C PDIP), functional distinctions among MAX6301–MAX6304 variants, and real-world timing behavior for reset assertion, watchdog servicing, and transient immunity.

Technical Context

The MAX6301EPA+ implements a precision bandgap-based reset comparator with 1.22V internal reference and ±20mV hysteresis, enabling user-defined thresholds via external resistor divider on RESET IN. Its reset timeout is generated by a 500nA current source charging CSRT, yielding tRP = 2.67 × CSRT (in µs for pF).

The watchdog timer uses the same 500nA current source on SWT, with timeout scaling determined by WDS logic level: GND selects normal mode (tWD in ms), VCC enables extended mode (tWD × 500, up to seconds). WDI accepts sub-30ns pulses and clears the timer on any edge; WDS edge resets the timer and changes mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6301EPA+ is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin spacing is 0.1 inch; lead finish is lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant (indicated by '+' suffix).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX6303EPA+, the MAX6301EPA+ offers open-drain flexibility for multi-device reset buses but requires a pullup; versus TPS3808G125DBVR, it provides full adjustability at higher quiescent current, making it suitable for complex, low-power, watchdog-dependent systems.

Availability

MAX6301EPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical equipment, industrial PLC controllers, and battery-powered data loggers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX6301EPA+ 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 management, sensing, and interface applications, with emphasis on high-reliability industrial and medical markets.

The MAX6301–MAX6304 family was engineered specifically for flexible, low-power microprocessor supervision in resource-constrained embedded systems - prioritizing adjustable thresholds, scalable watchdog timing, and robust transient immunity over fixed-function simplicity.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed minimum VCC level at which MAX6301EPA+ asserts RESET?

The MAX6301EPA+ guarantees RESET assertion for VCC ≥ 1V across its full operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). This ensures reliable processor initialization even during slow-ramp power-up sequences or degraded supply conditions. Below 1V, RESET behavior is not specified; for zero-volt validity, external pulldown resistors are required per application note guidelines. The MAX6301EPA+ achieves this using internal biasing that remains functional down to 1V.

How does the WDS pin affect watchdog timeout behavior in MAX6301EPA+?

In MAX6301EPA+, the WDS pin selects between two watchdog modes: when pulled to GND, it enables normal mode with timeout tWD = 2.67 × CSWT (in ms for pF); when pulled to VCC, it activates extended mode, multiplying tWD by 500 (e.g., 4ms → 2s). A transition on WDS immediately resets the watchdog counter. This dual-mode capability allows the same MAX6301EPA+ to serve both fast-fault detection and ultra-low-power wake-up timing without external components.

Can MAX6301EPA+ monitor voltages other than VCC?

Yes, MAX6301EPA+ can monitor any DC voltage by connecting it to the RESET IN pin through an external resistor divider. The device references its internal 1.22V bandgap, so VRST = 1.22 × (R1 + R2)/R2 defines the trip point. For example, to monitor a 3.3V rail at 2.97V, use R2 = 1MΩ and R1 ≈ 1.43MΩ. Input leakage (<1nA) ensures minimal error, and layout best practices (short traces, no nearby noise sources) preserve accuracy.

What capacitor types are recommended for SRT and SWT on MAX6301EPA+?

MAX6301EPA+ requires low-leakage ceramic capacitors for SRT and SWT, with leakage <10nA to prevent timing errors from the 500nA precision current source. X7R or C0G dielectrics are preferred; avoid electrolytic, tantalum, or high-leakage ceramics. Typical values: 1500pF yields ~4ms reset timeout and ~4ms watchdog timeout (normal mode). Capacitor placement must be close to the pins, with minimal trace length and isolation from digital noise sources.

Is MAX6301EPA+ pin-compatible with other members of the MAX6301–MAX6304 family?

Yes, MAX6301EPA+ shares identical 8-pin PDIP pinout and electrical timing characteristics with MAX6302EPA+, MAX6303EPA+, and MAX6304EPA+. The only differences are output polarity (active-low vs. active-high) and drive type (open-drain vs. push-pull), defined by part number suffix and internal configuration. No PCB changes are needed when substituting within the same package variant, provided the system design accommodates the specific RESET output behavior.