Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX883CPA

Overview

MAX883CPA from Maxim Integrated is a 5V fixed-output, low-dropout linear regulator with p-channel MOSFET pass transistor, delivering up to 200mA output current at junction temperatures up to +125°C, featuring 220mV dropout at 5V/200mA, 11µA typical quiescent current, and shutdown mode drawing <1µA - designed for battery-powered pagers, cellular phones, and portable instruments.

For engineers reviewing the MAX883CPA datasheet, MAX883CPA pinout, MAX883CPA application, or MAX883CPA equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5V fixed output (non-adjustable unless reconfigured via SET pin), SOIC-8 package thermal performance (1.5W power dissipation), reverse-current protection threshold of 6–20mV, dual-mode operation capability, and compatibility with 2.7V–11.5V input range.

Technical Context

The MAX883CPA uses an internal 1.20V reference and error amplifier to regulate output via a p-channel MOSFET pass transistor - eliminating base-drive losses inherent in bipolar regulators and enabling stable ultra-low IQ across load and dropout conditions. Its dual-mode comparator monitors the SET pin voltage (<65mV for fixed mode) to select between internal 5V feedback and external adjustable configuration.

Shutdown logic disables all circuitry including reference and bias networks when OFF is pulled low, reducing supply current below 1µA; thermal shutdown activates at +160°C with 10°C hysteresis, while foldback current limiting restricts output to 430mA above 0.8V VOUT and 170mA during short-circuit conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX883CPA is housed in an 8-pin plastic SOIC package rated for 1.5W power dissipation (θ_JB = 53°C/W), with GND pins (pins 3 and 6) serving dual roles as electrical ground and thermal heatsinks - requiring soldering to large copper pads or planes for safe 200mA operation at elevated ambient temperatures.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout, low-IQ linear regulator applications.

Compared with MAX883CPA, TPS76350DBVR offers smaller footprint but sacrifices reverse-current protection and system monitoring; MCP1703T-5002E/MB delivers lower IQ and higher current but lacks critical safety and battery-aware features required in portable medical and communication devices.

Availability

MAX883CPA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular phone power management, pager system voltage regulation, solar-powered data loggers, portable medical instruments, and battery-backed instrumentation requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX883CPA 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 MAX882/MAX883/MAX884 family was designed specifically for micropower, battery-critical systems - emphasizing ultra-low quiescent current, low dropout, integrated protection, and dual-mode flexibility in compact SOIC packaging.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX883CPA over temperature and load?

The MAX883CPA delivers a nominal 5.00V output with ±2.5% tolerance (4.75V to 5.25V) across 0°C to +70°C operating temperature and 100µA to 250mA load current. At -40°C to +85°C, the range widens to 4.65V to 5.35V. This specification is guaranteed per Maxim's datasheet ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS and ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS tables for MAX883C_A grade devices like the MAX883CPA.

Does the MAX883CPA support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, the MAX883CPA supports adjustable output from 1.25V to 11V using external resistors connected to the SET pin. When SET voltage exceeds 65mV, the dual-mode comparator selects external feedback; the output follows V_OUT = 1.20V × (1 + R1/R2). For fixed 5V operation, SET must be tied to GND with impedance <100kΩ. This behavior is confirmed in the MAX883CPA functional diagram and Detailed Description section.

What thermal derating applies to the MAX883CPA in its SOIC-8 package?

The MAX883CPA's SOIC-8 package has a 1.5W continuous power dissipation rating at +70°C, derating at 18.75mW/°C above that temperature. Its thermal resistance θ_JB is 53°C/W - significantly lower than standard SOIC packages (θ_JB ≈ 110°C/W) - enabling higher output current at elevated ambient temperatures when GND pins 3 and 6 are properly soldered to large copper areas per Maxim's layout guidelines.

How does reverse-current protection work in the MAX883CPA, and what is its activation threshold?

The MAX883CPA activates reverse-current protection when the input voltage (VIN) falls 6mV to 20mV below the output voltage (VOUT), switching substrate and power bus connections to block backfeed. During activation, reverse current is limited to ≤50µA at 5V output. This feature is explicitly documented in the "Reverse-Current Protection" subsection of the Detailed Description and Electrical Characteristics table (parameter ∆V_RTH).

Can the MAX883CPA be used without the LBI and LBO pins, and what is the recommended handling?

Yes, the MAX883CPA operates fully without LBI and LBO functionality: tie LBI directly to IN if low-battery monitoring is unused, and leave LBO floating (with external pull-up only if needed). The LBI input draws only ±50nA, so no loading impact occurs. This configuration is validated in the Typical Operating Circuit (Figure 7) and Pin Description table, where "Tie to IN when not used" is specified for LBI.