Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8510EXK29+T

Overview

The MAX8510EXK29+T from Maxim Integrated is a 2.85V fixed-output, ultra-low-noise, low-dropout (LDO) linear regulator delivering up to 120mA output current with 120mV dropout at full load and 11μVRMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz). It features a P-channel MOSFET pass element, 40μA ground current, and operates from 2V to 6V input - ideal for powering noise-sensitive RF and analog circuitry in portable battery-powered devices.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8510EXK29+T datasheet, MAX8510EXK29+T pinout, MAX8510EXK29+T application, or MAX8510EXK29+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its guaranteed 2.85V ±1% accuracy over temperature, SC70-5 package footprint, BP-capacitor–enabled ultra-low noise performance, and compatibility with 1μF ceramic output capacitors without external compensation.

Technical Context

The MAX8510EXK29+T uses an internal 1.225V bandgap reference and error amplifier to regulate output via a 1Ω (typ) P-channel MOSFET pass transistor - eliminating base-drive current and enabling stable 40μA quiescent operation across load and input voltage. Its BP pin connects to an external 10nF capacitor to shunt high-frequency noise from the reference path, directly enabling the 11μVRMS output noise specification.

Shutdown is controlled by a logic-level SHDN pin (0.4V low / 1.5V high threshold), reducing supply current to <1μA; thermal shutdown activates at +160°C with 10°C hysteresis. The device achieves 78dB PSRR at 1kHz and maintains stability with only 1μF ceramic output capacitance due to its optimized control loop and internal feedback divider.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 5-pin SC70 (2.0mm × 1.25mm × 0.95mm height), RoHS-compliant, lead-free, tape-and-reel. Exposed pad not present - thermal dissipation relies on PCB copper area under GND pin.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with the Torex XC6219B282MR-G and ADP125ARHZ-2.85-R7, the MAX8510EXK29+T uniquely delivers 2.85V precision with industry-leading 11μVRMS noise in the smallest SC70-5 footprint - making it irreplaceable in space-constrained, noise-critical RF and precision analog subsystems.

Availability

MAX8510EXK29+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular front-end power, Bluetooth audio codec supply, digital camera image sensor bias, and portable medical pulse oximeter applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX8510EXK29+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) 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 MAX8510EXK29+T belongs to the MAX8510 family of ultra-low-noise LDOs designed specifically for powering noise-sensitive RF, audio, and precision analog circuits in battery-constrained portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the exact output voltage tolerance of the MAX8510EXK29+T over temperature?

The MAX8510EXK29+T guarantees ±2% output voltage accuracy over the full –40°C to +85°C operating range, with tighter ±1% tolerance specified at +25°C. This is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Output Voltage Accuracy" with test conditions covering IOUT = 100µA to 80mA across temperature. The 2.85V nominal output remains stable within this band without external trimming.

Does the MAX8510EXK29+T require a bypass capacitor on the BP pin to achieve its 11μVRMS noise spec?

Yes - the MAX8510EXK29+T requires a 10nF capacitor between BP and OUT to achieve the specified 11μVRMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz). The datasheet explicitly states that the BP pin connects to an internal noise-bypass circuit tied to the bandgap reference, and omitting this capacitor increases noise to 230μVRMS (matching the MAX8511/MAX8512 spec). Layout best practice places the 10nF capacitor as close as possible to pins 4 (BP) and 5 (OUT).

Can the MAX8510EXK29+T operate with only a 1μF output capacitor, and is it stable across all loads?

Yes - the MAX8510EXK29+T is internally compensated and guaranteed stable with a minimum 1μF ceramic output capacitor across the full 0–120mA load range, per the "Stable with 1μF Ceramic Capacitor for Any Load" feature and Typical Operating Characteristics plots. X7R or X5R dielectrics are recommended; Z5U/Y5V types may require ≥2.2μF below –10°C. No ESR constraints or series resistance are needed.

What is the maximum continuous input voltage the MAX8510EXK29+T can withstand?

The MAX8510EXK29+T has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of +7V (IN to GND), but its functional operating range is specified from 2V to 6V. Operation above 6V is outside the validated design envelope and may compromise output accuracy, dropout behavior, or long-term reliability - even if within absolute max limits. For 6V–7V transient suppression, external clamping is advised.

How does the shutdown current of the MAX8510EXK29+T compare to similar LDOs, and what is its typical value?

The MAX8510EXK29+T achieves <1μA typical shutdown supply current (ISHDN), with a maximum of 1μA at +25°C and 0.05μA at +85°C - verified in the Electrical Characteristics table. This is significantly lower than many competing LDOs (e.g., TPS7A05: 250nA, but with lower current drive; AP2112: 1.5μA), making it optimal for battery-backed real-time clocks or always-on sensor wake circuits where nanoampere leakage matters.