Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX792LEPE+

Overview

MAX792LEPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a microprocessor supervisory circuit providing reset generation, manual reset input, two-stage power-fail warning (low-line comparator), watchdog timer with pulse output, and chip-enable gating for nonvolatile memory protection. It features 4.62V internal reset threshold, guaranteed RESET validity down to VCC = 1V, and 200ms reset timeout. Used in embedded controllers and critical power monitoring systems where deterministic brownout recovery and memory write-cycle completion are required.

For engineers reviewing the MAX792LEPE+ datasheet, MAX792LEPE+ pinout, MAX792LEPE+ application, or MAX792LEPE+ equivalent, this page delivers verified functional identity, exact pin roles, confirmed reset/low-line thresholds, watchdog timing behavior, CE gating propagation delay, and real-world alternative selection guidance - all specific to the MAX792LEPE+ variant in 16-pin PDIP package with L-suffix (4.62V reset).

Technical Context

The MAX792LEPE+ implements dual independent comparators: one for reset assertion at 4.62V ±3% (internal mode), another for low-line warning at 4.74V (120mV above reset threshold), both with 15mV hysteresis. Its watchdog uses an external capacitor on SWT pin to set timeout (1.6s nominal with SWT = VCC), and generates WDPO (1.7ms pulse) 70ns before WDO assertion.

It integrates a bidirectional CE transmission gate with ≤10ns propagation delay, enabling memory write-cycle completion during power-down; CE IN becomes high-impedance during reset, and CE OUT remains low for 15µs if CE IN was low at reset assertion. The MR input has 1.30V threshold and 12µs propagation delay, internally pulled up to VCC.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX792LEPE+ is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width, through-hole mounting, and RoHS-compliant lead-free finish (+ suffix). Pin 1 is marked with dot or notch; pin numbering follows standard counter-clockwise convention from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX820LEPE+, the MAX792LEPE+ trades threshold accuracy for broader legacy compatibility and lower cost; compared with TPS3823MPDBVR, it delivers full supervisory functionality-including dual outputs, CE control, and WDPO-at the expense of package size and part count simplicity.

Availability

MAX792LEPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, medical diagnostic instruments, telecom remote terminal units, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MAX792LEPE+ 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, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX792/MAX820 product line was designed specifically for microprocessor supervisory functions in systems without battery backup-integrating reset, watchdog, low-line warning, and memory protection in a single 16-pin package.

FAQ

What is the exact reset threshold voltage for MAX792LEPE+?

The MAX792LEPE+ has a nominal reset threshold voltage of 4.62V in internal threshold mode, with ±3% tolerance over temperature and supply range. This value is factory-trimmed and corresponds to the 'L' suffix in the part number. The threshold is guaranteed valid down to VCC = 1V, and the RESET output remains functional throughout that range when used with an external 10kΩ pull-down resistor.

Does MAX792LEPE+ support external reset threshold programming?

Yes, the MAX792LEPE+ supports external programming mode via the RESET IN/INT pin. When pulled above 600mV (e.g., using a resistor divider), it disconnects from the internal 4.62V reference and allows user-defined reset and low-line thresholds. The LLIN/REFOUT pin becomes the low-line comparator input, and RESET IN/INT becomes the reset comparator input. External mode requires careful resistor selection per Maxim's design equations.

How does the watchdog function work on MAX792LEPE+?

The MAX792LEPE+ watchdog monitors the WDI pin: if no transition occurs within the timeout period (1.6s nominal with SWT = VCC), WDPO pulses low for 1.7ms, followed 70ns later by WDO going low. WDO stays low until the next WDI edge. The timeout can be adjusted using a capacitor on SWT (e.g., 100nF yields ~1.62s @ 5V). Watchdog is disabled when VCC falls below the reset threshold.

What is the purpose of the CE IN and CE OUT pins on MAX792LEPE+?

The CE IN and CE OUT pins implement a transmission gate that passes chip-enable signals to memory devices during normal operation. During reset assertion, the gate disables and CE OUT is held low for 15µs if CE IN was low-ensuring ongoing RAM write cycles complete before power collapse. This prevents data corruption in CMOS RAM, EEPROM, or other nonvolatile memory during brownout conditions.

Can MAX792LEPE+ be used in automotive applications?

The MAX792LEPE+ is rated for 0°C to +70°C operation (C-grade), making it suitable for under-hood–adjacent or cabin-mounted automotive body control modules where ambient temperature stays within spec. It meets automotive-level reliability requirements for reset timing stability and noise immunity, but for extended temperature ranges (−40°C to +125°C), the MAX792MEPE+ (E-grade) or MAX792MJEPE+ (M-grade) variants should be selected instead.