Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8512EXK+T

Overview

MAX8512EXK+T from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-low-noise, adjustable-output LDO linear regulator delivering up to 120mA with 120mV dropout at full load, 40μA ground current, and stable operation with 1μF ceramic output capacitance. It uses a P-channel MOSFET pass transistor and features FB pin for external voltage setting in portable battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8512EXK+T datasheet, MAX8512EXK+T pinout, MAX8512EXK+T application, or MAX8512EXK+T equivalent, key selection criteria include adjustable output capability, 11μVRMS noise (shared with MAX8510), PSRR of 72dB at 1kHz, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and SC70-5 package compatibility with space-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The MAX8512EXK+T implements an internal 1.225V bandgap reference and error amplifier that compares feedback voltage at the FB pin against this reference to control the gate of a 1Ω typ P-channel MOSFET pass transistor. Its adjustable output is set via external R1/R2 divider per VOUT = VREF × (1 + R1/R2), with VREF = 1.225V and R2 < 240kΩ.

Shutdown logic disables the reference, error amplifier, and gate driver when SHDN is pulled low, reducing supply current to <1μA. Thermal protection activates at 160°C junction temperature with 10°C hysteresis, forcing pulsed output under sustained overload - distinct from the fixed-output MAX8510/MAX8511 variants.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8512EXK+T is housed in a RoHS-compliant 5-pin SC70 package (2.0mm × 1.25mm × 0.95mm), with exposed pad omitted - optimized for minimal PCB area in portable devices.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LT1763CS8-3.3#TRPBF and TLS850F0TES/V33, the MAX8512EXK+T uniquely balances adjustability, ultra-low IQ, SC70 footprint, and 120mA capability - making it optimal for space- and battery-life-constrained portable electronics where output voltage flexibility is required.

Availability

MAX8512EXK+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, wireless audio accessories, digital imaging modules, and industrial handheld meters requiring stable component supply with lead-free compliance and consistent parametric performance.

Supply support for MAX8512EXK+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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for demanding applications in communications, computing, and industrial systems.

The MAX8510/MAX8511/MAX8512 family targets battery-powered portable electronics needing ultra-low-noise, low-quiescent-current regulation - with MAX8512EXK+T specifically enabling flexible voltage scaling in space-constrained SC70 layouts.

FAQ

What output voltage range can be set using the MAX8512EXK+T?

The MAX8512EXK+T supports output voltages from approximately 1.5V to 4.5V using an external resistor divider on the FB pin, calculated as VOUT = 1.225V × (1 + R1/R2). The internal reference is 1.225V, and R2 must be less than 240kΩ; 1% tolerance resistors are recommended for accuracy. The MAX8512EXK+T itself does not impose hard upper/lower limits beyond those defined by the divider and input voltage headroom.

Does the MAX8512EXK+T require a bypass capacitor like the MAX8510?

No, the MAX8512EXK+T does not have a BP (bypass) pin and therefore does not use an external bypass capacitor for noise reduction. Unlike the MAX8510, which achieves 11μVRMS noise using a 10nF BP-to-OUT capacitor, the MAX8512EXK+T exhibits 230μVRMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz) due to its FB-based architecture. This makes the MAX8512EXK+T suitable for applications where moderate noise is acceptable but voltage adjustability is essential.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX8512EXK+T to regulate a 2.8V output?

For a 2.8V output, the MAX8512EXK+T requires a minimum input voltage of VOUT + dropout voltage. At 120mA load, dropout is 120mV; at lighter loads, it decreases. Thus, VIN(min) ≈ 2.8V + 0.12V = 2.92V for full-load regulation. With 80mA load and VOUT ≥ 3V, dropout drops to 80mV - so for 2.8V at 80mA, VIN(min) ≈ 2.88V. The MAX8512EXK+T maintains regulation down to VIN = 2V, but usable dropout depends on load and output voltage.

Can the MAX8512EXK+T be used with ceramic capacitors smaller than 1μF?

No - the MAX8512EXK+T is specified and guaranteed stable only with ≥1μF ceramic output capacitance (X7R or X5R dielectric recommended). Using smaller values risks instability, excessive ringing during load transients, or failure to maintain regulation under dynamic conditions. Input capacitance also requires ≥1μF ceramic. The 1μF minimum is a hard design requirement, not a recommendation, per Maxim's Electrical Characteristics and Stability sections.

How does shutdown behavior affect the output impedance of the MAX8512EXK+T?

When SHDN is pulled low, the MAX8512EXK+T disables its internal reference, error amplifier, and pass transistor gate driver, placing the OUT pin in a high-impedance state. Output voltage collapses, and leakage into the output node is limited to <10nA - verified by shutdown supply current specs (<1μA total). This allows safe sharing of the output rail with other regulators or power domains without backfeed or contention, making the MAX8512EXK+T suitable for power-gated subsystems.