Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8636ELA+T

Overview

The MAX8636ELA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual 300mA pin-programmable low-dropout linear regulator in a 2mm × 2mm µDFN-8 package, operating from 2.7V to 5.5V input and delivering up to 300mA per output with 90mV typical dropout at 100mA load, 45µV_RMS output noise (with BP bypass), and 54µA typical quiescent current-designed for battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable dual-rail voltage regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8636ELA+T datasheet, MAX8636ELA+T pinout, MAX8636ELA+T application, or MAX8636ELA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-output programmability via P1/P2 logic states, low-noise operation enabled by BP pin, thermal shutdown at +165°C, and compatibility with ceramic capacitors ≥2.2µF for stability across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX8636ELA+T integrates two independent LDO regulators with internal p-channel MOSFET pass transistors (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.9Ω), enabling low dropout proportional to load current and eliminating base-drive current losses. Each regulator uses an internal 1.50V reference and error amplifier with fixed feedback dividers determined at power-on by P1/P2 states.

It features a dedicated BP (bypass) pin connected to the internal reference through an on-chip resistor, allowing external 0.01µF capacitor filtering to reduce output noise to 45µV_RMS (10Hz–100kHz); it lacks RESET output (unlike MAX8633) and uses a single SHDN input to disable both outputs simultaneously.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm µDFN with exposed paddle (EP), RoHS-compliant, thermal performance optimized via EP soldered to PCB ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8635ELA+T, the MAX8636ELA+T adds BP-based noise filtering critical for analog/RF rails; compared with TPL7407LADGQR, it integrates dual programmable outputs in one µDFN-8 package-reducing board area by ~40% and eliminating inter-rail coupling risks.

Availability

The MAX8636ELA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular handsets, wireless LAN cards, digital cameras, and handheld test instruments requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX8636ELA+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, and consumer applications.

The MAX8633–MAX8636 product line delivers dual, pin-programmable LDOs optimized for space-constrained, battery-powered portable electronics-emphasizing ultra-low quiescent current, low noise, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What output voltage combinations does the MAX8636ELA+T support?

The MAX8636ELA+T supports nine preset output-voltage combinations determined by the logic states (open, GND, or IN) of P1 and P2 pins at power-on. Examples include 2.85V/2.85V (P1=P2=open), 3.00V/2.80V (P1=IN, P2=GND), and 3.00V/3.00V (P1=P2=IN). These values are fixed after startup and require power cycling or full shutdown to change. The MAX8636ELA+T datasheet Table 3 lists all nine pairs explicitly.

Does the MAX8636ELA+T include a RESET output function?

No, the MAX8636ELA+T does not include a RESET output. That feature is exclusive to the MAX8633 variant. The MAX8636ELA+T omits the RESET pin entirely and instead provides the BP (bypass) pin for low-noise operation. If system-level power monitoring or reset assertion is required, an external supervisor IC must be used alongside the MAX8636ELA+T.

How does the BP pin on the MAX8636ELA+T reduce output noise?

The BP pin connects to the internal voltage reference through an on-chip resistor. Adding a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor from BP to GND forms a low-pass filter that attenuates reference noise, directly lowering output voltage noise to 45µV_RMS (10Hz–100kHz). Omitting the BP capacitor increases noise to ~60µV_RMS; the MAX8636ELA+T requires this capacitor to meet its specified low-noise performance.

What is the maximum power dissipation limit for the MAX8636ELA+T in its µDFN package?

The MAX8636ELA+T in the 2mm × 2mm µDFN package has a maximum power dissipation of 380mW at +70°C, derating by 4.8mW/°C above that temperature. Exceeding this limit triggers thermal shutdown at +165°C. To stay within limits, calculate worst-case power dissipation using P_D = (V_IN(MAX) − V_OUT1) × I_OUT1 + (V_IN(MAX) − V_OUT2) × I_OUT2, ensuring the result remains below P_DMAX.

Can the MAX8636ELA+T operate with output capacitors smaller than 2.2µF?

Yes, but with constraints: output capacitance can be reduced to 1µF per rail only when load currents remain below 150mA. For full 300mA capability or improved transient response, ≥2.2µF ceramic capacitors (X7R/X5R dielectric) are mandatory. Using Z5U/Y5V dielectrics or tantalum capacitors may compromise stability, especially below –10°C, and is not recommended for the MAX8636ELA+T.