Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8668ETEP+T
- Part No.:
- MAX8668ETEP+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Voltage Regulators - Linear + Switching
- Package:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX8668ETEP+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG QUAD BUCK/LNR SYNC 16TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,817
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX8668ETEP+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual step-down DC-DC converter with dual low-noise LDO regulators, designed to power microprocessors and DSPs in portable electronics. It delivers 600mA on OUT1 and 1200mA on OUT2, supports adjustable output voltages from 0.6V to 3.3V, operates at 1.5MHz, and achieves 100µA no-load supply current with all outputs enabled - enabling compact, high-efficiency power delivery in smartphones and digital cameras.
For engineers reviewing the MAX8668ETEP+T datasheet, MAX8668ETEP+T pinout, MAX8668ETEP+T application, or MAX8668ETEP+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual adjustable buck architecture, individual enable inputs per regulator, 3mm × 3mm thin QFN package, and integrated voltage positioning for transient load stability.
Technical Context
The MAX8668ETEP+T implements a proprietary hysteretic-PWM control scheme operating at 1.5MHz, enabling ultra-small external components (e.g., 2.2µH inductors) and fast line/load transient response. Its dual buck stages use p-channel high-side switches with synchronous n-channel rectifiers, eliminating external Schottky diodes.
Two independent LDOs (OUT3/OUT4) operate from 1.7V–5.5V input, deliver up to 300mA each, feature 75µVRMS output noise (100Hz–100kHz), and integrate soft-start (100µs ramp time) and thermal shutdown (+160°C trip with 15°C hysteresis).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Switching Frequency | 1.5MHz fixed-frequency hysteretic-PWM operation enables use of tiny 2.2µH inductors and reduces EMI filtering burden. |
| OUT1 Output Current | 600mA guaranteed - sufficient for core logic rails of low-voltage microprocessors. |
| OUT2 Output Current | 1200mA guaranteed - supports memory I/O or GPU subsystems in portable SoC designs. |
| Adjustable Output Range | 0.6V to 3.3V via FB1/FB2 resistor dividers - matches modern processor core and I/O voltage requirements. |
| No-Load Supply Current | 100µA typical with all four regulators enabled - extends battery life in always-on standby modes. |
| LDO Output Noise | 75µVRMS (100Hz–100kHz, 30mA load) - meets noise-sensitive analog/RF supply requirements. |
| UVLO Thresholds | IN12: 2.5V rising (2.4V–2.6V range); IN34: 1.6V rising (1.5V–1.7V range) - ensures clean startup under weak battery conditions. |
Pinout & Package
MAX8668ETEP+T is housed in a 16-pin, 3mm × 3mm thin QFN package with exposed paddle (EP), rated for –40°C to +85°C operation. The EP must be soldered to GND/PGND1/PGND2 for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| EN1, EN2, EN3, EN4 | Independent enable inputs | Allow precise power sequencing: EN1/EN2 control buck regulators; EN3/EN4 control LDOs - critical for SoC boot order compliance. |
| FB1, FB2 | Feedback inputs for OUT1/OUT2 | Accept resistor-divider networks to set output voltage; support voltage positioning by sensing at LX node to reduce output capacitance needs. |
| OUT1, OUT2 | Buck regulator outputs | Deliver regulated 0.6V–3.3V at 600mA/1200mA; OUT1/OUT2 pins serve as direct output terminals (not feedback-only) in MAX8668 configuration. |
| OUT3, OUT4 | LDO regulator outputs | Provide factory-set low-noise outputs (e.g., 2.8V/3.3V) up to 300mA each - suitable for analog sensors or RF front-end biasing. |
| LX1, LX2 | Switch-node connections | Interface directly with external inductors; internal pMOS/nMOS switching elements minimize conduction loss and eliminate external diodes. |
| PGND1, PGND2 | Power ground returns | Separate ground paths for buck stages reduce coupling between switching loops and improve EMI performance. |
| IN12, IN34 | Input supplies | IN12 (2.6V–5.5V) powers buck regulators; IN34 (1.7V–5.5V) powers LDOs - requires VIN34 ≤ VIN12 to prevent backfeed. |
| REF | Internal reference output | 0.600V ±1% reference with 0.01µF bypass - used for precision feedback and external monitoring circuits. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Voltage positioning architecture | Uses FB1/FB2 sensing at LX node to intentionally droop output under load - matches transient droop and cuts required output capacitance by up to 30%. |
| Synchronous rectification | Integrated n-channel MOSFET replaces external Schottky diode - eliminates forward voltage drop and improves light-load efficiency. |
| Individual regulator enables | Four dedicated EN_ inputs (EN1–EN4) allow programmable sequencing - essential for meeting ASIC/FPGA power-up timing requirements. |
| Ultra-low quiescent current | 100µA total no-load supply current with all four regulators active - extends shelf life and standby runtime in battery-powered devices. |
| Thermal protection with hysteresis | +160°C shutdown with 15°C hysteresis - prevents latch-up during sustained overload while allowing automatic recovery after cooling. |
Applications
| Smartphone Application | Digital Camera Application |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering application processor core (VDD_CORE) and memory I/O (VDD_IO) in LTE-enabled smartphones with tight PCB area constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual buck regulator provides dynamically scalable core voltage (0.8V–1.2V) and fixed 1.8V/3.3V I/O rails; LDOs supply noise-sensitive RF transceiver and camera sensor bias. Use Value: 1.5MHz switching allows 2.2µH inductors and <100µA quiescent current - directly enabling >24hr standby time and sub-8mm board thickness. | Use Scenario: Delivering clean, sequenced power to CMOS image sensor, ISP, and SD card interface in compact action cameras. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: OUT1 powers sensor analog core (1.2V); OUT2 supplies ISP digital domain (1.8V); OUT3/OUT4 provide low-noise 2.8V/3.3V for lens actuator and SDIO interface. Use Value: Voltage positioning reduces peak-to-peak output deviation during sensor frame-rate transients - eliminating need for bulky 47µF ceramic output caps per rail. |
| Portable Medical Monitor | Handheld Test Instrument |
Use Scenario: Powering ARM-based patient monitor SoC with ECG front-end, display driver, and Bluetooth LE radio in Class II medical enclosure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Buck regulators supply SoC core/memory; LDOs deliver ultra-low-noise 3.0V for precision ADC reference and 1.8V for BLE RF section. Use Value: 75µVRMS LDO noise and independent EN control ensure ECG signal integrity meets IEC 60601-2-27 immunity requirements without additional filtering. | Use Scenario: Providing stable, low-noise rails for mixed-signal FPGA, 16-bit DAC, and LCD controller in battery-operated handheld oscilloscopes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: OUT1 (1.2V) powers FPGA core; OUT2 (3.3V) drives DAC analog section; OUT3/OUT4 (2.5V/1.8V) supply LCD bias and digital I/O banks. Use Value: Individual enable sequencing prevents FPGA configuration glitches during power-up; 100µA no-load current extends 4-hour battery runtime by 18% vs. legacy PMICs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-buck-with-LDO applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS65023RSBR | Triple buck + single LDO; 2.25MHz switching; 600mA/600mA/600mA buck outputs; no voltage positioning. | Higher integration for multi-rail SoCs but lacks LDO noise performance (120µVRMS) and independent LDO enables. | Select when needing third buck rail and higher switching frequency outweighs LDO noise and sequencing flexibility. |
| ADP5022ACPZ-2-R7 | Dual buck + dual LDO; 3MHz switching; 600mA/600mA bucks; LDOs rated 300mA/300mA; 40µVRMS noise. | Superior LDO noise and higher switching frequency, but buck current capability is symmetric (600mA/600mA) - insufficient for 1200mA OUT2 requirement. | Select for ultra-low-noise LDO applications where 1200mA buck current is not needed and 3MHz operation simplifies EMI filter design. |
Compared with TPS65023RSBR and ADP5022ACPZ-2-R7, MAX8668ETEP+T uniquely balances asymmetric high-current buck capability (600mA/1200mA), voltage positioning for transient robustness, and 75µVRMS LDO noise - making it optimal for portable imaging and high-performance mobile SoC power delivery where rail-specific current demands and noise sensitivity coexist.
Availability
MAX8668ETEP+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone power management, digital camera SoC supply, portable medical monitor design, and handheld test instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX8668ETEP+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, automotive, communications, and consumer applications.
The MAX8668ETEP+T belongs to Maxim's portable power management product line, engineered specifically to address the compact size, high efficiency, and precise sequencing demands of battery-powered multimedia devices.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MAX8668ETEP+T step-down regulators?
The MAX8668ETEP+T step-down regulators (OUT1 and OUT2) accept an input voltage range of 2.6V to 5.5V on the IN12 pin. Absolute maximum rating is +6.0V relative to GND. Exceeding 5.5V may degrade reliability or trigger undervoltage lockout behavior outside specification. Always maintain VIN34 ≤ VIN12 to prevent backfeed into the LDO supply path.
Does the MAX8668ETEP+T support voltage positioning, and how is it implemented?
Yes, the MAX8668ETEP+T supports voltage positioning on OUT1 and OUT2 via its FB1 and FB2 pins. It senses feedback at the LX node (switch node) rather than directly at the output, causing intentional output droop proportional to load current and inductor DCR. This matches transient load droop, reducing peak-to-peak voltage deviation and minimizing required output capacitance - a key advantage over fixed-feedback architectures.
What are the thermal shutdown characteristics of the MAX8668ETEP+T?
The MAX8668ETEP+T features thermal shutdown that activates at +160°C junction temperature with 15°C hysteresis. When triggered, the device disables all regulators and enters pulsed recovery mode until die temperature falls to +145°C. This protects against permanent damage during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design, while allowing automatic resumption of operation once cooled - critical for unattended portable equipment.
Can the LDO outputs (OUT3 and OUT4) of the MAX8668ETEP+T be adjusted, or are they factory preset?
The LDO outputs OUT3 and OUT4 on the MAX8668ETEP+T are factory preset and not user-adjustable. Typical configurations include 2.8V and 3.3V, though exact values depend on specific ordering options. Unlike the buck outputs (which are adjustable via FB1/FB2 resistors), the LDOs use internal voltage dividers - ensuring stable, low-noise outputs without external components, ideal for analog and RF supply domains.
What is the minimum recommended inductor value for the MAX8668ETEP+T buck regulators, and why?
The minimum recommended inductor value for MAX8668ETEP+T buck regulators is 2.2µH (0805 size). This value is specified for output voltages above 2V where light-load efficiency matters. Using 2.2µH enables the 1.5MHz switching frequency, minimizes board area, and maintains acceptable ripple and transient response - validated in Maxim's typical application circuits (Figures 3 and 4) and supported by the IC's minimum on-time (100ns) and off-time (50ns) specifications.
MAX8668ETEP+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Topology:
- Step-Down (Buck) Synchronous (2), Linear (LDO) (2)
- Number of Outputs:
- 4
- Frequency - Switching:
- 1.5MHz
- Voltage/Current - Output 1:
- 0.6V ~ 3.3V, 600mA
- Voltage/Current - Output 2:
- 0.6V ~ 3.3V, 1.2A
- Voltage/Current - Output 3:
- 3.3V, 300mA
- w/LED Driver:
- No
- w/Supervisor:
- No
- w/Sequencer:
- No
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.6V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TQFN (3x3)
MAX8668ETEP+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX8668ETEP+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX8668ETEP+T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX8668ETEP+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX8668ETEP+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX8668ETEP+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX8668ETEP+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX8668ETEP+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX8668ETEP+T?
MAX8668ETEP+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX8668ETEP+T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX8668ETEP+T?
For technical support, including MAX8668ETEP+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX8668ETEP+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX8668ETEP+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX8668ETEP+T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX8668ETEP+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX8668ETEP+T?
All MAX8668ETEP+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX8668ETEP+T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX8668ETEP+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX8668ETEP+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX8668ETEP+T Tags

-
TPS6521905RHBR
Texas Instruments

-
MIC3385YHL-TR
Microchip Technology

-
A4402ELPTR-T
Allegro MicroSystems
-
LM26480SQ-AA/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
A4402KLPTR-T
Allegro MicroSystems

-
BD71847AMWV-E2
ROHM Semiconductor

-
ADP5040ACPZ-1-R7
Analog Devices Inc.

-
LT3048IDC#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.

-
ADP5037ACPZ-R7
Analog Devices Inc.

-
XRP7714ILB-F
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
LTC3260EDE#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.

-
LTC3260EMSE#PBF
Analog Devices Inc.
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

