Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8516EUB+T

Overview

MAX8516EUB+T from Maxim Integrated is a 1A, low-dropout linear regulator with PMOS pass transistor architecture, operating from 1.425V to 3.6V input and delivering adjustable output (0.5V to VIN–0.2V) with ±1.4% accuracy over 0°C to +85°C. It features 200mV dropout at full load, 320μA typical ground current, and supports ceramic input/output capacitors (1μF/4.7μF) for stable 1A operation in space-constrained server and optical module power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8516EUB+T datasheet, MAX8516EUB+T pinout, MAX8516EUB+T application, or MAX8516EUB+T equivalent, this device is selected for post-regulation of core voltages where ultra-low headroom, fast transient response (<45mV deviation for 20mA→1A step), and thermal robustness in μMAX® package are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The MAX8516EUB+T uses an internal p-channel MOSFET pass element with 100mΩ typical on-resistance, eliminating base-drive current and enabling stable regulation down to 1.425V input without sacrificing PSRR or transient performance. Its feedback loop references a precision 500mV FB threshold with ±7mV accuracy over temperature.

It integrates soft-start to limit inrush current, logic-controlled shutdown (EN pin), thermal-overload protection (trip at +165°C, reset at +150°C), and short-circuit current limiting (2A typ). Unlike the MAX8517/MAX8518 variants, it lacks POK or POR outputs-making it the base variant optimized for simplicity and minimal external component count.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8516EUB+T is housed in a 10-pin μMAX® package (3mm × 5mm) with exposed thermal pad (EP) soldered to PCB ground for optimal power dissipation. Pin 10 is internally pulled down to GND via 10kΩ resistor and must be left floating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8516EUB+T, the TPS7A4700RGWR offers lower noise but demands higher input headroom, while the MCP1826-3302E/DB sacrifices adjustability and dropout performance for fixed-output simplicity - making MAX8516EUB+T optimal for space-constrained, multi-voltage, low-headroom digital power domains.

Availability

MAX8516EUB+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power delivery, optical module regulation, and networking ASIC supply applications requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term industrial lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX8516EUB+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 and mixed-signal ICs for power, interface, sensing, and timing applications in industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX8516EUB+T belongs to Maxim's low-dropout linear regulator product line, engineered specifically for high-current, low-headroom post-regulation in space-constrained digital systems where thermal efficiency and transient stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the MAX8516EUB+T?

The MAX8516EUB+T operates stably down to 1.425V input voltage - verified across load, line, and temperature (0°C to +85°C). Below this, undervoltage lockout activates at 1.35V (typ), disabling regulation to protect downstream circuitry. This makes MAX8516EUB+T suitable for direct regulation from single-cell Li-ion batteries or low-voltage intermediate buses.

Does the MAX8516EUB+T include power-good or reset functionality?

No, the MAX8516EUB+T does not include power-good (POK) or power-on reset (POR) outputs. These features are exclusive to the MAX8517EUB+T (POK) and MAX8518EUB+T (POR) variants. The MAX8516EUB+T is the base version optimized for simplicity, omitting those signals to reduce pin count and enable cleaner layout in applications where system-level monitoring is handled externally.

What ceramic capacitor values are required for stable 1A operation with the MAX8516EUB+T?

For stable 1A operation, the MAX8516EUB+T requires a 1μF ceramic capacitor between IN and GND, and a 4.7μF ceramic capacitor between OUT and GND. Both must be low-ESR types. Smaller output capacitors may be used for loads below 1A (e.g., COUT = IOUT(max) × 1μF/200mA), but 4.7μF is mandatory to meet the specified 45mV transient deviation for full 20mA→1A steps.

How does the MAX8516EUB+T handle thermal overload conditions?

The MAX8516EUB+T incorporates thermal-overload protection that shuts down the output when junction temperature reaches +165°C (rising threshold) and re-enables regulation once temperature falls to +150°C (falling threshold). This hysteresis prevents oscillation during fault conditions. During shutdown, ground current drops to <25μA, and the output is actively pulled low by an internal 10kΩ resistor.

Can the MAX8516EUB+T be used with an adjustable output voltage below 1.0V?

Yes, the MAX8516EUB+T supports adjustable output voltages from 0.5V to (VIN – 0.2V) using an external resistor divider on the FB pin. With its 500mV feedback threshold and ±7mV accuracy over temperature, it reliably achieves sub-1.0V outputs such as 0.85V or 0.9V for modern low-power processor cores - provided input voltage remains ≥1.425V and dropout margin (VIN – VOUT) ≥200mV at full load.