Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8510EXK33+T

Overview

MAX8510EXK33+T from Maxim Integrated is a 3.3V fixed-output, ultra-low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator featuring a P-channel MOSFET pass element, 120mV dropout at 120mA, 11μVRMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz), 78dB PSRR at 1kHz, and 40μA ground current - designed for powering noise-sensitive analog circuitry in portable RF and audio subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8510EXK33+T datasheet, MAX8510EXK33+T pinout, MAX8510EXK33+T application, or MAX8510EXK33+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 120mA output with <1μA shutdown current, SC70-5 package compatibility, stability with 1μF ceramic output capacitance, and BP-capacitor–enabled ultra-low-noise performance.

Technical Context

The MAX8510EXK33+T implements an innovative bandgap core with integrated noise-bypass architecture centered on the BP pin, enabling 11μVRMS output noise via external 10nF capacitor coupling to OUT. Its error amplifier compares a 1.225V reference against internal feedback to drive a 1Ω (typ) P-channel MOSFET pass transistor.

Dropout behavior is governed by R_DS(ON) × I_LOAD, yielding 120mV at 120mA for V_OUT ≥ 3V. Thermal shutdown activates at +160°C with 10°C hysteresis, and current limiting holds output between 130mA (min) and 300mA (max) under overload.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8510EXK33+T is housed in a RoHS-compliant, lead(Pb)-free 5-pin SC70 package (2.0mm × 1.25mm × 0.95mm height), with exposed pad omitted - optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts in handheld and wearable electronics.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with the Torex XC6210B332MR-G and ADP125ARHZ-3.3-R7, the MAX8510EXK33+T uniquely balances ultra-low noise (11μV_RMS), SC70 size, 1μF stability, and sub-1μA shutdown - making it optimal for miniaturized RF and audio subsystems where spectral purity and board area are primary constraints.

Availability

MAX8510EXK33+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular front-end power, portable audio codec supply, Bluetooth LE sensor node, and digital camera image sensor bias applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX8510EXK33+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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, computing, and consumer markets.

The MAX8510 series belongs to Maxim's ultra-low-noise LDO product line, engineered specifically for powering noise-critical analog blocks - including RF transceivers, precision data converters, and high-fidelity audio circuits - in battery-operated portable equipment.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8510EXK33+T over temperature?

The MAX8510EXK33+T guarantees ±3% output voltage accuracy over its full operating temperature range of –40°C to +85°C. At +25°C, the tolerance tightens to ±1%, and at 1mA load it remains within ±2% across –40°C to +85°C. This stability ensures reliable operation for 3.3V logic interfaces and analog components with narrow supply margins.

Can the MAX8510EXK33+T operate with a 2.5V input voltage?

No - the MAX8510EXK33+T requires a minimum input voltage of 2V, but to maintain regulation at 3.3V output, VIN must exceed VOUT by at least the dropout voltage. At 120mA load, dropout is 120mV, so VIN must be ≥3.42V. At lighter loads, dropout decreases (e.g., ~80mV at 80mA), allowing VIN as low as ~3.38V while sustaining regulation. A 2.5V input is insufficient.

Is an external capacitor required on the BP pin of the MAX8510EXK33+T?

Yes - the BP pin is essential to achieve the MAX8510EXK33+T's specified 11μV_RMS output noise. A 10nF capacitor must be placed between BP and OUT. Omitting this capacitor degrades noise performance to ~230μV_RMS (matching the MAX8511/MAX8512 family). The BP capacitor also improves PSRR above 10kHz and must be low-leakage (≤10nA).

Does the MAX8510EXK33+T require a minimum load current to maintain regulation?

No - the MAX8510EXK33+T is stable and maintains regulation with zero load current. Its ground current remains at 40μA typical under no-load conditions, and the device does not require a minimum load for loop stability. This makes it ideal for intermittent-use analog subsystems where output may be idle for extended periods.

What is the thermal performance of the MAX8510EXK33+T in the SC70 package?

In the 5-pin SC70 package, the MAX8510EXK33+T has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 324°C/W and junction-to-case (θ_JC) of 115°C/W. With a 120mA load and 3.42V input (120mV dropout), power dissipation is ~14.4mW - resulting in a junction temperature rise of only ~4.7°C above ambient. Adequate copper pour on GND improves heat spreading significantly.