Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX766ESA+
- Part No.:
- MAX766ESA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX766ESA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK BOOST ADJ/-1V 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:100
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Product details
Overview
MAX766ESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a high-efficiency, low-quiescent-current inverting DC-DC switching regulator delivering -15V output (fixed) or adjustable from -1V to -16V, with 250mA output current capability, 120µA max supply current, and internal P-channel MOSFET - used in portable instruments and LCD-bias generation where compact size and battery life are critical.
For engineers reviewing the MAX766ESA+ datasheet, MAX766ESA+ pinout, MAX766ESA+ application, or MAX766ESA+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, confirmed pin functions, real-world operating constraints (e.g., 20V max VIN–VOUT differential), and validated alternative options for -15V inverting power conversion in space-constrained, low-IQ designs.
Technical Context
The MAX766ESA+ employs a proprietary current-limited pulse-frequency-modulated (PFM) control scheme that enables >80% efficiency across load currents from 1mA to 250mA while maintaining ultra-low no-load supply current (≤120µA). Its BiCMOS architecture integrates a 0.75A peak-current-rated P-channel power MOSFET on-die, eliminating external switch requirements.
Operation relies on a 1.5V internal reference (REF), feedback via FB pin tied to REF for fixed output or external resistor divider for adjustment, and shutdown control via TTL/CMOS-compatible SHDN pin. The LX pin swings between V+ (switch ON) and |VOUT| + diode drop (switch OFF), limiting absolute VIN–VOUT differential to 21V.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed -15V ±4% (or adjustable -1V to -16V using R1/R2); enables direct biasing of LCD segments without external regulation. |
| Max Output Current | 250mA at V+ = 5V; sufficient for driving multiple LCD bias rails or small analog circuitry from single-cell Li-ion input. |
| Supply Current (No Load) | ≤120µA typical; reduces standby power loss in battery-powered systems by >90% vs. PWM alternatives. |
| Shutdown Current | ≤5µA max; allows deep-sleep modes in remote data-acquisition systems with microcontroller-controlled power sequencing. |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 300kHz; permits use of <5mm surface-mount inductors (e.g., 47µH), minimizing PCB footprint and EMI filter complexity. |
| Input Voltage Range | 3V to 16V; supports operation from single Li-ion (3.0–4.2V), dual alkaline (3–3.2V), or industrial 12V rails. |
| VIN–VOUT Differential Limit | 20V max (absolute 21V); constrains usable input range when generating -15V - e.g., max V+ = 16V requires |VOUT| ≤ 1V below ground. |
Pinout & Package
MAX766ESA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, RoHS-compliant, with gull-wing leads and standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint (5.0mm × 4.0mm, 1.75mm height).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 5) | Power Ground Reference | Common return path for internal bias, REF, and FB; must connect to star ground point to minimize noise coupling into feedback loop. |
| V+ (Pins 6,7) | Positive Input Supply | Dual-pin connection for high-current input; requires 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor placed adjacent to pins to suppress switching transients. |
| LX (Pin 8) | Switch Node / MOSFET Drain | Drain of internal P-channel MOSFET; connects to inductor and catch diode anode; voltage swings from V+ to ~|VOUT| + 0.4V. |
| REF (Pin 4) | 1.5V Precision Reference Output | Sources up to 100µA; used as feedback reference for adjustable mode or tied directly to FB for fixed -15V operation. |
| SHDN (Pin 3) | Active-High Shutdown Control | Logic-high (>1.6V) disables switching and drops supply current to <5µA; logic-low (<0.4V) enables normal operation. |
| FB (Pin 2) | Feedback Input | Compares divided output voltage against REF; open or connected to REF selects fixed output; external resistor divider enables adjustable mode. |
| OUT (Pin 1) | Output Sense / Fixed-Mode Connection | Internally connected to error amplifier; must be wired to VOUT in fixed-output configurations per Figure 2. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Current-Limited PFM Control | Combines light-load efficiency of PFM (<120µA IQ) with heavy-load performance of PWM (>80% at 250mA), avoiding efficiency cliffs common in pure PFM converters. |
| Integrated P-Channel MOSFET | Eliminates need for external high-side switch and gate driver, reducing BOM count by ≥3 components and simplifying layout for portable instrument power stages. |
| Adjustable Output Range | -1V to -16V via two-resistor divider (R1 = 150kΩ, R2 = 150kΩ × |VOUT|/1.5V); supports custom bias voltages for specialized sensor or op-amp supplies. |
| Miniature Magnetics Support | 300kHz operation enables use of off-the-shelf 47µH SMT inductors (e.g., Coilcraft D1813 series), cutting board area by >50% vs. 50kHz alternatives. |
| TTL/CMOS-Compatible Shutdown | Direct interface with microcontrollers or logic sequencers without level-shifting; enables synchronized power-down across multi-rail systems. |
Applications
| Portable Instrument Power | LCD Bias Generation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Handheld multimeter or portable oscilloscope requiring isolated negative rail for analog front-end op-amps and ADC reference. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Inverting DC-DC converter generating stable -15V from 3.3V or 5V main rail to power precision analog circuitry. Use Value: Enables true bipolar signal acquisition with 16-bit resolution by providing clean, low-noise negative supply independent of main system rail. |
Use Scenario: Monochrome or segment LCD display in medical device or industrial HMI needing segmented VEE bias at -15V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-output inverter supplying regulated negative bias voltage to LCD common electrode (VEE) with minimal ripple. Use Value: Maintains consistent contrast across temperature (-40°C to +85°C) due to tight output tolerance (±4%) and stable 1.5V internal reference. |
| Remote Data-Acquisition System | Battery-Powered Sensor Node |
Use Scenario: Wireless sensor node deployed in field monitoring applications, powered by AA batteries and requiring isolated analog signal conditioning. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-IQ inverter generating -15V for instrumentation amplifiers and precision references during active measurement cycles. Use Value: Extends battery life by >3× vs. PWM-based inverters due to 120µA no-load current and 5µA shutdown state. |
Use Scenario: Compact environmental sensor module (temperature/humidity) with integrated MCU and analog sensors requiring dual-supply op-amps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact, self-contained inverter converting single-cell Li-ion (3.0–4.2V) to -15V for analog signal chain biasing. Use Value: Achieves full functionality in <100mm² PCB area using only IC, 47µH inductor, Schottky diode, and three capacitors - no magnetics design needed. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar inverting DC-DC regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX776ESA+ | Same -15V fixed output, but uses external P-channel MOSFET; supports up to 5W output power and higher current (500mA+). | Required when >250mA load or >1.5W output power is needed; adds external FET, gate driver, and layout complexity. | Select MAX776ESA+ only if MAX766ESA+'s 250mA limit is exceeded - otherwise MAX766ESA+ offers lower BOM cost and simpler layout. |
| LM2662MX/NOPB | Charge-pump inverter (no inductor); delivers only -5.2V (not -15V); max output current 100mA; IQ ≈ 170µA. | Suitable only for low-current, low-voltage biasing (e.g., op-amp V–); cannot replace MAX766ESA+ for -15V/250mA loads. | Choose LM2662MX/NOPB only for space-constrained, low-power applications where -15V is not required and inductor-free design is mandatory. |
Compared with MAX776ESA+, MAX766ESA+ provides lower component count and smaller footprint for ≤250mA -15V needs; compared with LM2662MX/NOPB, it delivers triple the output voltage magnitude and 2.5× more current, at the cost of requiring an inductor and diode.
Availability
MAX766ESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instruments, LCD-bias generators, remote data-acquisition systems, and battery-powered sensor nodes requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C).
Supply support for MAX766ESA+ 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The MAX764/MAX765/MAX766 family was designed specifically for compact, high-efficiency inverting DC-DC conversion in battery-powered and portable equipment - prioritizing ultra-low quiescent current, integrated power switches, and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the maximum input-to-output voltage differential supported by the MAX766ESA+?
The MAX766ESA+ has an absolute maximum VIN–VOUT differential of 21V, with a recommended operational limit of 20V. For its fixed -15V output, this means the maximum allowable input voltage is 16V - exceeding this risks permanent damage to the internal MOSFET and control circuitry. Always verify V+ – |VOUT| ≤ 20V in design calculations.
Can the MAX766ESA+ be used to generate an adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?
Yes, the MAX766ESA+ supports adjustable output from -1V to -16V using an external resistor divider. Connect R1 (150kΩ) between OUT and FB, and R2 between FB and GND. Set R2 = 150kΩ × |VOUT| / 1.5V. Do not tie FB to REF - that configures fixed -15V mode. The REF pin remains active and must be bypassed with 0.1µF.
What is the role of the OUT pin on the MAX766ESA+, and how should it be connected?
The OUT pin on the MAX766ESA+ is the output sense terminal for fixed-output operation. It must be connected directly to the actual VOUT net (i.e., the cathode of the catch diode and negative output capacitor) to close the feedback loop accurately. In adjustable mode, OUT is internally disconnected from the error amplifier and may be left unconnected or tied to VOUT.
Does the MAX766ESA+ require an external Schottky diode, and what specifications are critical?
Yes, the MAX766ESA+ requires an external Schottky diode (e.g., 1N5817 or 1N5818) connected between LX and VOUT. Critical specs include 0.75A average forward current rating, low forward voltage (<0.45V @ 250mA), and fast recovery (<100ns). High leakage must be avoided in high-temp/light-load scenarios - consider MUR105 silicon diodes if leakage exceeds 10µA at 85°C.
How does the MAX766ESA+ achieve high efficiency at both light and heavy loads?
The MAX766ESA+ achieves wide-range efficiency via its current-limited PFM control: at light loads, it pulses only when regulation is lost (minimizing switching losses), and at heavy loads, it enforces continuous conduction with peak-current limiting (0.75A) and cycle-by-cycle duty-cycle adjustment - combining the best efficiency traits of both PFM and PWM topologies without requiring external compensation.
MAX766ESA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up/Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Negative
- Topology:
- Buck-Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable (Fixed)
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 16V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- -1V (-15V)
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -16V
- Current - Output:
- 105mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 300kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX766ESA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX766ESA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX766ESA+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX766ESA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX766ESA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX766ESA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX766ESA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX766ESA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX766ESA+?
MAX766ESA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX766ESA+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX766ESA+?
For technical support, including MAX766ESA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX766ESA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX766ESA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX766ESA+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX766ESA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX766ESA+?
All MAX766ESA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX766ESA+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX766ESA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX766ESA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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