Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8510ETA25+

Overview

The MAX8510ETA25+ from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5V fixed-output, ultra-low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator featuring a P-channel MOSFET pass element, 120mV dropout at 120mA, 11µV_RMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz), and 78dB PSRR at 1kHz - designed for powering noise-sensitive analog circuitry in portable RF and precision signal-chain applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8510ETA25+ datasheet, MAX8510ETA25+ pinout, MAX8510ETA25+ application, or MAX8510ETA25+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its TDFN-8 (2mm × 2mm) package, BP pin-enabled noise suppression, guaranteed 120mA output with ≤3% voltage accuracy, and shutdown current <1µA - critical for battery-life optimization in space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MAX8510ETA25+ implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier driving a 1Ω (typ) P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, enabling low ground current (40µA typical) independent of load. Its BP pin connects to an external 10nF capacitor to shunt high-frequency noise from the reference node, directly enabling the 11µV_RMS noise performance.

Dropout behavior is governed by R_DS(ON) × I_LOAD, yielding 120mV at 120mA and scaling linearly with load - verified across -40°C to +85°C. Thermal shutdown activates at 160°C with 10°C hysteresis, and current limiting holds output at 130–300mA during overload without damage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8510ETA25+ uses an 8-pin TDFN-EP (2mm × 2mm × 0.8mm) package with exposed pad (EP) internally connected to GND. The EP must be soldered to a large PCB ground plane for thermal performance and EMI control.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS79525DRVR and ADP125ARHZ-2.5-R7, the MAX8510ETA25+ delivers the lowest output noise (11µV_RMS) and highest PSRR at 1kHz (78dB) in a 2mm × 2mm footprint - making it uniquely suited for RF and high-fidelity analog power domains where noise spectral density directly impacts system-level performance metrics.

Availability

MAX8510ETA25+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular front-end power, portable audio codec bias, digital camera image sensor bias, and industrial sensor signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX8510ETA25+ 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX8510 series belongs to Maxim's ultra-low-noise LDO family, engineered specifically for powering noise-critical analog blocks - such as RF transceivers, high-resolution ADCs/DACs, and precision sensors - in battery-constrained portable systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MAX8510ETA25+?

The MAX8510ETA25+ has an absolute maximum input voltage of +7V referenced to GND. However, its operational input range is specified as 2V to 6V. Exceeding 6V may cause excessive power dissipation or violate thermal limits, especially in the 2mm × 2mm TDFN package. For reliable operation, maintain VIN ≤ 6V and ensure power dissipation stays within the 0.953W limit at +70°C ambient.

Does the MAX8510ETA25+ require an external bypass capacitor on the BP pin?

Yes, the MAX8510ETA25+ requires a 10nF capacitor between BP and OUT to achieve its specified 11µV_RMS output noise. This capacitor is integral to the internal noise-bypass architecture - omitting it increases output noise to 230µV_RMS. The BP pin is shorted to OUT during shutdown, so the capacitor also serves as a charge reservoir for fast wake-up. Use C0G/NP0 dielectric for stability across temperature.

Can the MAX8510ETA25+ be used with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 1µF?

No - the MAX8510ETA25+ is characterized and guaranteed stable only with ≥1µF ceramic output capacitance (X5R or X7R dielectric). Using smaller values risks oscillation or degraded transient response, particularly under load steps >50mA. The 1µF minimum ensures adequate phase margin across -40°C to +85°C and accounts for ceramic capacitance loss at DC bias.

What is the thermal resistance (θ_JA) of the MAX8510ETA25+ in its TDFN package?

The MAX8510ETA25+ in the 8-pin TDFN-EP (2mm × 2mm) package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 83.9°C/W when mounted on a standard four-layer JEDEC test board. This value assumes proper soldering of the exposed pad (EP) to a minimum 100mm² copper ground plane. Without adequate EP thermal connection, θ_JA degrades significantly, risking thermal shutdown above ~150mW dissipation.

How does the shutdown functionality affect output behavior in the MAX8510ETA25+?

When SHDN is pulled low (<0.4V), the MAX8510ETA25+ disables its voltage reference, error amplifier, and gate-drive circuitry, placing the output (OUT) in a high-impedance state with leakage <10nA. The BP pin is internally shorted to OUT during shutdown, discharging the BP capacitor. Exit delay is 300µs (typ) - measured from SHDN rising above 1.5V to VOUT reaching 90% of 2.5V - ensuring glitch-free wake-up in real-time systems.