Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8530EBT8A

Overview

MAX8530EBT8A from Maxim Integrated is a dual low-dropout linear regulator IC with integrated microprocessor reset circuit, designed for space-constrained battery-powered systems. It delivers 200mA from OUT1 and 150mA from OUT2, features 100mV typical dropout at 100mA, 130µA quiescent current, and open-drain active-low RESET output with 100ms minimum timeout - used in baseband power sequencing for cellular handsets.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8530EBT8A datasheet, MAX8530EBT8A pinout, MAX8530EBT8A application, or MAX8530EBT8A equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed dual-output current capability, UCSP package footprint (1.16 × 1.57 mm), reset threshold accuracy (87% of OUT1 nominal), thermal shutdown behavior (160°C), and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors ≥2.2µF.

Technical Context

The MAX8530EBT8A integrates two independent LDOs with P-channel MOSFET pass transistors, enabling ultra-low quiescent current (130µA) independent of load or dropout voltage. Its internal 1.25V bandgap reference feeds error amplifiers that regulate both outputs via internal resistor dividers - no external feedback required.

Reset functionality is tightly coupled to OUT1: RESET asserts when OUT1 falls below 87% of its nominal value and remains low for ≥100ms after OUT1 recovers; SHDN input controls global enable/disable with <1µA shutdown current and logic-compatible thresholds (VIH = 1.6V, VIL = 0.4V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8530EBT8A is packaged in a 6-bump UCSP (1.16 × 1.57 × 0.6 mm, 3 × 2 grid), optimized for minimal board area in handheld applications. The package uses wafer-level chip-scale construction with solder bumps replacing wire bonds.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-LDO-with-reset applications.

Compared with MAX8530ETTK2, the MAX8530EBT8A trades thermal headroom for extreme miniaturization - ideal for sub-50mm² PCB sections. Against TPS79533DCQ, it delivers integrated dual-rail regulation and reset in one die, reducing BOM count and layout complexity despite higher unit cost.

Availability

MAX8530EBT8A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular handsets, PDAs, and digital cameras requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle support and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8530EBT8A 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 power management, analog, and mixed-signal ICs for portable, industrial, and communications applications.

The MAX8530/MAX8531 product line was engineered for ultra-compact, low-power battery-operated devices - emphasizing minimal quiescent current, tiny UCSP/QFN packaging, and integrated system-level functions like reset monitoring.

FAQ

What output voltage options are available for MAX8530EBT8A?

The MAX8530EBT8A is a factory-configured variant with fixed output voltages: OUT1 = 2.8V and OUT2 = 1.8V, as indicated by top-mark "ACT" per the Output Voltage Selector Guide. These values are laser-trimmed during production and not adjustable externally. Other combinations between 1.5V and 3.3V in 50mV steps are available under different part numbers (e.g., MAX8530EBTJ2 = 2.85V/1.8V), but MAX8530EBT8A specifically implements 2.8V/1.8V.

Does MAX8530EBT8A require external components for basic operation?

Yes, MAX8530EBT8A requires at minimum: a 2.2µF ceramic input capacitor (CIN) between IN and GND, a 2.2µF ceramic output capacitor (COUT1) on OUT1, and a 1µF ceramic capacitor (COUT2) on OUT2. An external pull-up resistor on the RESET pin (typically 10kΩ to VCORE) is also mandatory for proper reset signaling. No external feedback resistors or timing components are needed due to internal voltage dividers and reset circuitry.

How does the RESET function interact with the SHDN pin on MAX8530EBT8A?

When SHDN is driven low, both LDO outputs disable and RESET is actively pulled low - regardless of OUT1 voltage level. During normal operation (SHDN = high), RESET monitors only OUT1 and asserts low if OUT1 drops below 87% of its nominal value. The RESET timeout (≥100ms) begins only after OUT1 rises above threshold; it does not trigger during SHDN-induced shutdown. This ensures deterministic reset behavior during intentional power-down sequences.

Can MAX8530EBT8A be used with tantalum output capacitors?

No, MAX8530EBT8A is optimized for ceramic capacitors and explicitly not recommended for use with tantalum capacitors. The device's stability criteria (minimum 2.2µF for OUT1, 1µF for OUT2) assume low-ESR ceramic types such as X7R or X5R. Tantalum capacitors exhibit higher ESR and capacitance drift over temperature/voltage, which can cause oscillation or poor transient response. Using them may violate stability margins defined in the datasheet and invalidate parametric guarantees.

What is the maximum allowable power dissipation for MAX8530EBT8A in its UCSP package?

The MAX8530EBT8A UCSP package has a maximum continuous power dissipation of 308mW at +70°C ambient, derating by 3.9mW/°C above that temperature. This limit arises from thermal resistance constraints of the 1.16 × 1.57 mm wafer-level package. Exceeding this - for example, with VIN = 4.2V, VOUT1 = 2.8V, IOUT1 = 200mA (P = 280mW) plus VOUT2 = 1.8V, IOUT2 = 150mA (P = 360mW) - totals 640mW and risks thermal shutdown. In such cases, the QFN variant (MAX8530ETTK2) with 1951mW rating should be selected instead.