Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6888KETE+

Overview

MAX6888KETE+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad-voltage, overvoltage/undervoltage supervisory IC with watchdog timer functionality, designed for multivoltage system monitoring in telecom and server applications. It features four factory-set voltage detector inputs (IN1–IN4), 1% threshold accuracy, 180ms reset timeout, and active-low open-drain RESET/OV/WDO outputs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX6888KETE+ datasheet, MAX6888KETE+ pinout, MAX6888KETE+ application, or MAX6888KETE+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 4.38V/2.88V/1.58V/0.527V undervoltage thresholds, 10% tolerance, -40°C to +85°C operation, and 16-pin thin QFN package with exposed pad.

Technical Context

The MAX6888KETE+ implements independent undervoltage and overvoltage detection per input using precision reference-based comparators with 0.3% hysteresis and ±10ppm/°C tempco. Its virtual diode-OR power architecture selects the highest of IN1–IN4 (≥2.7V) to supply internal circuitry, eliminating need for external VCC biasing in most configurations.

It integrates a dual-mode watchdog timer with 102.4s initial timeout (for µP initialization) and 1.6s normal timeout (for runtime supervision), where WDI edge-triggered strobing resets the timer. All three outputs-RESET, OV, and WDO-are open-drain, requiring external pullups and supporting wired-OR logic interfacing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX6888KETE+ is housed in a 5mm × 5mm × 0.8mm, 16-pin thin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP) connected to GND. The package is RoHS-compliant and optimized for high-density PCB layouts with low thermal resistance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar power-supply supervisory applications.

Compared with MAX6888KETE+, MAX6888METE+ shifts the first monitored rail from 5.0V to 3.3V while preserving 1.8V and adjustable thresholds, whereas MAX6888JETE+ retains the 5.0V/3.3V pair but supervises 2.5V instead of 1.8V-enabling precise rail-matching without redesigning PCB layout or firmware.

Availability

MAX6888KETE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom infrastructure, enterprise server platforms, and industrial storage controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX6888KETE+ 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, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX6887/MAX6888 family delivers multirail power supervision with integrated watchdog timers, targeting high-availability systems where supply integrity and processor health must be verified autonomously.

FAQ

What voltage thresholds does the MAX6888KETE+ monitor?

The MAX6888KETE+ monitors four input voltages with factory-set undervoltage thresholds of 4.38V (IN1), 2.88V (IN2), 1.58V (IN3), and 0.527V (IN4), and corresponding overvoltage thresholds of 5.62V, 3.70V, 2.02V, and 0.673V. These values are specified at ±10% tolerance over the full -40°C to +85°C operating range, as confirmed in Table 2 of the official datasheet.

Can the MAX6888KETE+ be powered from a dedicated VCC supply?

Yes - the MAX6888KETE+ can be powered either from one of its monitored inputs (IN1–IN4) or from an externally supplied VCC. When using external VCC, it must be at least 200mV higher than any applied INx voltage and brought up first. However, the device is designed to self-power from IN1–IN4, making dedicated VCC unnecessary in most multirail systems.

How does the watchdog timer function in the MAX6888KETE+?

The MAX6888KETE+ features a dual-mode watchdog timer with an initial timeout of 102.4s (for µP initialization) and a normal timeout of 1.6s (for runtime supervision). It triggers WDO low if WDI fails to transition within the active timeout period. Connecting WDO to MR generates automatic hardware resets, and the timer clears when RESET goes high.

What is the purpose of the MARGIN input on the MAX6888KETE+?

The MARGIN input on the MAX6888KETE+ holds RESET, OV, and WDO in their current asserted or deasserted states during system-level stress testing. When pulled low, it overrides MR and freezes output behavior - enabling controlled overvoltage/undervoltage validation without unintended resets. It is internally pulled up to BP via a 10µA current source.

Does the MAX6888KETE+ require external pullup resistors on its outputs?

Yes - all three outputs (RESET, OV, and WDO) are active-low open-drain and require external pullup resistors to the appropriate logic rail (e.g., 3.3V or 5V). The datasheet specifies VOL ≤ 0.4V at ISINK = 4mA, confirming compatibility with standard CMOS/TTL logic families when properly terminated.