Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX792LESE

Overview

MAX792LESE from Maxim Integrated is a microprocessor supervisory circuit providing reset generation, manual reset input, two-stage power-fail warning (low-line comparator 120mV above reset threshold), watchdog timer with pulsed fault output (WDPO), and chip-enable gating for CMOS RAM protection. It guarantees valid RESET output down to VCC = 1V and supports internal or externally programmed reset/low-line thresholds. Used in embedded controllers and critical µP power monitoring systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX792LESE datasheet, MAX792LESE pinout, MAX792LESE application, or MAX792LESE equivalent, this page delivers verified functional identity, confirmed 16-pin SO package mapping, validated 4.62V nominal reset threshold (L-suffix), exact watchdog timeout behavior (1.6s default), and real-world CE gating timing (10ns max propagation delay) - all directly extracted from Maxim's official datasheet Rev. 4 (11/05).

Technical Context

The MAX792LESE integrates independent reset, low-line, overvoltage, and watchdog comparators with internal 1.30V reference and external programming capability via RESET IN/INT and LLIN/REFOUT pins. Its dual reset outputs (active-high RESET and active-low RESET) are synchronized to a 200ms power-up delay timer, while the watchdog function monitors WDI transitions with 1.6s nominal timeout (adjustable via SWT capacitor).

Chip-enable gating uses a transmission gate between CE IN and CE OUT, disabled during reset assertion to prevent memory corruption; propagation delay is guaranteed ≤10ns. The device operates across 2.75V–5.5V supply range and supports both internal threshold mode (grounded RESET IN/INT) and external resistor-divider programming mode (RESET IN/INT ≥600mV).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX792LESE is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package, 3.9mm body width, 1.27mm pitch, RoHS-compliant lead-free option available (suffix +).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX820LESE, MAX792LESE trades ±2% threshold accuracy for lower cost while retaining identical pinout and feature set; compared with TPS3823-46DBVR, MAX792LESE adds low-line NMI, WDPO latching, and CE gating - making it essential for systems requiring layered fault response and memory integrity.

Availability

MAX792LESE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC controllers, medical diagnostic instruments, automotive body control modules, and telecom remote terminal units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX792LESE 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications - emphasizing high reliability, small footprint, and integrated functionality.

The MAX792/MAX820 product line was engineered specifically for microprocessor-based systems needing coordinated reset, early power-fail warning, watchdog supervision, and memory write protection - targeting applications where single-point failure must trigger deterministic, multi-level fault response.

FAQ

What is the exact reset threshold voltage for MAX792LESE?

The MAX792LESE has a nominal reset threshold voltage of 4.62V, specified with ±3% accuracy over the full operating temperature range (0°C to +70°C). This value is factory-trimmed and applies in internal threshold mode when RESET IN/INT is grounded. The device guarantees valid RESET output down to VCC = 1V, ensuring robust operation during severe brownout conditions.

How does the watchdog function work on MAX792LESE?

The MAX792LESE watchdog monitors the WDI pin for transitions; if no edge occurs within 1.6s (default, with SWT tied to VCC), WDPO pulses low for 500µs–6ms, followed 70ns later by WDO asserting low. WDO remains low until the next WDI transition. WDPO enables two-fault latching via external D flip-flop, while WDO can be diode-OR'd to MR for immediate reset on every fault.

Can MAX792LESE be used with 3.3V microcontrollers?

Yes, MAX792LESE supports 2.75V–5.5V supply range and offers multiple reset threshold options. While the L-suffix is optimized for 5V systems (4.62V), external programming mode allows configuring reset and low-line thresholds for 3.3V rails using resistor dividers on RESET IN/INT and LLIN/REFOUT. The 200ms reset timeout and CE gating remain fully functional at 3.3V.

What is the purpose of the CE IN and CE OUT pins on MAX792LESE?

The CE IN and CE OUT pins implement a transmission gate that passes chip-enable signals to memory devices during normal operation but disables automatically during reset assertion. This prevents partial or corrupted writes to CMOS RAM or EEPROM when VCC drops. If CE IN is low when reset activates, CE OUT stays low for 15µs to complete the current write cycle - a key feature for data integrity.

Does MAX792LESE provide overvoltage detection capability?

Yes, MAX792LESE includes an uncommitted overvoltage comparator with OVI (inverting input) and OVO (open-drain output). When OVI exceeds 1.30V, OVO pulls low - this function operates independently of reset, watchdog, or low-line circuits and can be configured with an external resistor divider to detect overvoltage on any supply rail without affecting other supervisory functions.