Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8636ELA/V+T

Overview

MAX8636ELA/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual 300mA pin-programmable LDO linear regulator in a 2mm × 2mm µDFN-8 package, designed for space-constrained battery-powered systems. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V input, delivers up to 300mA per output, features 90mV dropout at 100mA, 45µVRMS output noise (with BP bypass), and single SHDN control for both regulators - used in wireless LAN cards and handheld instruments requiring low-noise, low-quiescent power regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8636ELA/V+T datasheet, MAX8636ELA/V+T pinout, MAX8636ELA/V+T application, or MAX8636ELA/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-output programmability via P1/P2 logic states, ultra-low 54µA quiescent current (both LDOs active), thermal shutdown at +165°C, and compatibility with ceramic capacitors ≥2.2µF for stable operation across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX8636ELA/V+T integrates two independent p-channel MOSFET pass transistors with internal 1.50V reference and error amplifiers, enabling precise regulation without external feedback resistors. Its output voltages are set at power-on by the logic states of P1 and P2, selecting from nine preset combinations (e.g., 2.85V/2.85V, 3.00V/2.50V) as defined in Table 3.

It includes a dedicated BP (bypass) pin connected to an internal reference node, allowing a 0.01µF capacitor to reduce output noise to 45µVRMS (10Hz–100kHz). Unlike the MAX8633, it lacks RESET but retains single SHDN control, thermal shutdown, and independent current limiting (400–600mA per channel).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm µDFN with exposed paddle (EP), RoHS-compliant, lead-free. Thermal performance optimized by soldering EP 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+, MAX8636ELA/V+T simplifies system control with unified SHDN but sacrifices independent LDO enable timing; compared with TPS7A2033PDBVR, it delivers dual low-noise outputs in only 13% larger footprint while enabling voltage flexibility without resistor changes.

Availability

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

Supply support for MAX8636ELA/V+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 was designed specifically for ultra-compact, battery-powered portable electronics requiring dual low-noise, pin-programmable LDO regulation with minimal external components and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What output voltage combinations does the MAX8636ELA/V+T support?

The MAX8636ELA/V+T supports nine preset output-voltage combinations determined by the logic states (open, GND, or IN) of P1 and P2 at power-on. Examples include 2.85V/2.85V (P1=open, P2=open), 3.00V/2.50V (P1=GND, P2=IN), and 3.00V/3.00V (P1=IN, P2=IN), as specified in Table 3 of the MAX8636ELA/V+T datasheet. Output voltages cannot be changed dynamically after startup without cycling power or asserting SHDN.

Does the MAX8636ELA/V+T include a reset output function?

No, the MAX8636ELA/V+T does not include a RESET output. That feature is exclusive to the MAX8633 variant. The MAX8636ELA/V+T omits the RESET pin (pin 5) and instead uses that location for the BP (bypass) pin to support low-noise operation. If system-level power monitoring is required, an external supervisor IC must be used alongside the MAX8636ELA/V+T.

What is the purpose of the BP pin on the MAX8636ELA/V+T?

The BP (bypass) pin on the MAX8636ELA/V+T connects to the internal voltage reference and must be decoupled to GND with a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor. This forms a low-pass filter that reduces output voltage noise to 45µVRMS (10Hz–100kHz). Omitting the BP capacitor increases noise to ~60µVRMS; using it is essential for noise-sensitive applications like RF power amplifiers or high-resolution ADCs powered by the MAX8636ELA/V+T.

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

Yes - for load currents below 150mA, the MAX8636ELA/V+T supports 1µF ceramic output capacitors per rail while maintaining stability across –40°C to +85°C. However, 2.2µF is recommended for full 300mA capability and optimal transient response. Capacitors must use X5R or X7R dielectrics; Z5U or Y5V types may require larger values below –10°C, and tantalum capacitors are not recommended due to higher ESR.

How does the MAX8636ELA/V+T handle thermal overload?

The MAX8636ELA/V+T incorporates thermal-shutdown circuitry that disables both OUT1 and OUT2 when junction temperature exceeds +165°C. Regulation resumes automatically once the junction cools by 15°C (hysteresis). This protection is independent of ambient temperature and load current, and is fully functional within the specified –40°C to +85°C operating range. Proper PCB layout - especially soldering the exposed paddle to a large ground plane - is critical to maximize thermal dissipation and avoid premature shutdown.