Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX792SCSE+T

Overview

MAX792SCSE+T 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 pulsed fault output, and chip-enable gating for nonvolatile memory protection. It features 2.91V internal reset threshold, guaranteed RESET validity down to VCC = 1V, 200ms reset timeout, and operates from 2.75V to 5.5V supply. Used in embedded controllers and industrial instrumentation requiring reliable power-up/down monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the MAX792SCSE+T datasheet, MAX792SCSE+T pinout, MAX792SCSE+T application, or MAX792SCSE+T equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world timing behavior, memory write-cycle completion support, and validated alternative options - all specific to the MAX792SCSE+T variant with 2.91V reset threshold in 16-pin narrow SO package.

Technical Context

The MAX792SCSE+T implements dual-comparator architecture: one for reset assertion at 2.91V ±3% (internal mode), another for low-line warning at 3.03V (120mV above reset threshold), both with 15µs propagation delay on VCC fall. Its watchdog uses an external capacitor on SWT pin to set timeout (1.6s nominal with SWT = VCC), and generates WDPO pulse (1.7ms min) 70ns before WDO assertion for hardware shutdown sequencing.

It integrates a bidirectional CE transmission gate with 10ns max propagation delay and 15µs hold time on CE OUT during reset assertion to ensure memory write-cycle completion. The MR input has 1.30V threshold with 12µs propagation delay and internal pull-up, eliminating need for external debounce components in manual reset circuits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX792SCSE+T is housed in a 16-pin narrow SOIC (SO) package, 3.9mm width, RoHS-compliant lead-free finish (+T suffix). Pin pitch is 0.65mm; body dimensions are 9.9mm × 3.9mm × 1.75mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX692ACPE+ and TPS3808G33DBVR, the MAX792SCSE+T uniquely integrates low-line NMI, watchdog pulse output, and chip-enable gating in a single 16-pin SOIC - enabling compact, functionally complete supervision without external logic or timing components.

Availability

MAX792SCSE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical infusion pumps, telecom remote terminals, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX792SCSE+T 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, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX792 family targets microprocessor supervisory needs in harsh environments, combining reset, watchdog, memory protection, and brownout warning in one die - optimized for reliability-critical embedded control where supply instability must trigger deterministic, multi-stage responses.

FAQ

What is the exact reset threshold voltage for MAX792SCSE+T?

The MAX792SCSE+T has a nominal reset threshold of 2.91V in internal threshold mode, with ±3% tolerance over 0°C to +70°C. This value is factory-trimmed and specified in the Ordering Information table as the 'S' suffix. The low-line comparator activates at 3.03V (120mV above reset threshold), providing early warning before reset assertion. The MAX792SCSE+T datasheet confirms this threshold applies specifically to the S-suffix variant in narrow SO packaging.

Does MAX792SCSE+T support external reset threshold programming?

Yes, the MAX792SCSE+T supports external programming mode via the RESET IN/INT pin. When pulled above 600mV (e.g., using a resistor divider), it disconnects internal references and routes LLIN/REFOUT and RESET IN/INT pins to the low-line and reset comparators respectively. This allows custom thresholds - but the MAX792SCSE+T's internal 2.91V setting remains its default and most commonly used configuration. External mode requires careful resistor selection per Maxim Application Note 4032.

How does the CE IN/CE OUT gating function protect memory in MAX792SCSE+T?

The MAX792SCSE+T's CE transmission gate blocks invalid chip-enable signals during brownout by disabling the CE IN → CE OUT path when reset is asserted. If CE IN is low at reset assertion, CE OUT stays low for 15µs to complete ongoing memory writes - preventing partial writes to CMOS RAM or EEPROM. This behavior is verified in the Typical Operating Characteristics plots and Figure 9 timing diagram of the MAX792SCSE+T datasheet.

What is the watchdog timeout behavior of MAX792SCSE+T when SWT is left unconnected?

The MAX792SCSE+T watchdog requires explicit configuration: SWT must not be left floating. In default operation, SWT is tied to VCC for 1.6s nominal timeout. Leaving it unconnected causes undefined watchdog behavior and potential failure to assert WDO/WDPO. The MAX792SCSE+T datasheet explicitly warns against floating SWT and specifies capacitor values ≥4.7nF for alternative timeouts. Always terminate SWT to VCC or GND via appropriate RC network.

Can MAX792SCSE+T generate a valid reset signal when VCC drops below 2V?

Yes, the MAX792SCSE+T guarantees RESET output validity down to VCC = 1V - confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. At VCC = 1V, RESET sinks 50µA with 0.3V max saturation voltage, ensuring clean logic-low assertion even during severe brownout. This capability is unique to the MAX792 series and critical for battery-backed systems; the MAX792SCSE+T maintains this spec across its full temperature range.