Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8841ELT28+T

Overview

MAX8841ELT28+T from Maxim Integrated is a preset 2.8V, 150mA ultra-low-noise LDO linear regulator in a 1.5mm × 1.0mm µDFN-6 package. It features 120mV dropout at 120mA load, 40µA ground current, and operates from 2V to 6V input. Designed for noise-sensitive RF and analog circuitry in portable devices, it delivers stable 2.8V power without requiring a bypass capacitor.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8841ELT28+T datasheet, MAX8841ELT28+T pinout, MAX8841ELT28+T application, or MAX8841ELT28+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.8V fixed output, absence of BP pin (simplifying layout), 72dB PSRR at 1kHz, 230µVRMS output noise, and guaranteed 150mA output with thermal/overcurrent protection.

Technical Context

The MAX8841ELT28+T uses a p-channel MOSFET pass transistor (1Ω typical R_DS(ON)) to achieve low dropout and minimal quiescent current-no base drive required, unlike PNP-based regulators. Its internal feedback divider sets the 2.8V output, eliminating external resistors.

Shutdown logic disables the bandgap reference, error amplifier, and gate driver when SHDN is pulled low, reducing supply current to <1µA. Thermal shutdown activates at +160°C with 10°C hysteresis, enabling pulsed operation under sustained overload without damage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8841ELT28+T is housed in a lead-free, RoHS-compliant 6-pin µDFN package measuring 1.5mm × 1.0mm × 0.8mm. The exposed pad (pin 5) is internally connected to GND and must be soldered to a PCB thermal pad for optimal thermal performance and electrical grounding.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS78228DRVT and MCP1703T-2802E/MB, the MAX8841ELT28+T offers superior noise performance (230µVRMS vs. >400µVRMS) and integrated thermal protection in the smallest footprint (1.5mm × 1.0mm), making it optimal for space-constrained, noise-sensitive RF and imaging subsystems.

Availability

MAX8841ELT28+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular front-end power, portable audio codec bias, digital camera image sensor bias, and Bluetooth radio core supply requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8841ELT28+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX8840/MAX8841/MAX8842 product line delivers ultra-low-noise, high-PSRR LDOs optimized for battery-powered RF, imaging, and portable audio systems where supply integrity directly impacts signal fidelity.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8841ELT28+T over temperature and load?

The MAX8841ELT28+T guarantees ±3% output voltage accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and for output currents from 100µA to 80mA. At room temperature and 1mA load, typical deviation is ±1%. This tight tolerance ensures reliable operation of 2.8V logic interfaces and analog circuits without external trimming. The MAX8841ELT28+T achieves this using a precision 1.225V bandgap reference and laser-trimmed internal resistor divider.

Does the MAX8841ELT28+T require an external bypass capacitor like the MAX8840?

No, the MAX8841ELT28+T does not require an external bypass capacitor. Unlike the MAX8840-which includes a BP pin for noise reduction-the MAX8841ELT28+T omits the BP function entirely (pin 4 is N.C.). Its architecture achieves 230µVRMS output noise without external capacitance, simplifying design and reducing component count. The MAX8841ELT28+T remains stable with only 1µF input and output ceramic capacitors, making it ideal for space-constrained layouts.

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for the MAX8841ELT28+T?

The absolute maximum input voltage for the MAX8841ELT28+T is +7V, but the recommended operating range is 2V to 6V. Exceeding 6V risks violating the absolute maximum rating on the OUT and SHDN pins relative to GND (limited to IN + 0.3V). For reliable long-term operation, keep VIN ≤ 6V-especially important in systems with transient voltage spikes or unregulated wall adapters. The MAX8841ELT28+T's 2V minimum input enables compatibility with partially discharged Li-ion batteries.

How does the thermal shutdown behavior of the MAX8841ELT28+T affect system operation?

When junction temperature exceeds +160°C, the MAX8841ELT28+T activates thermal shutdown, turning off the pass transistor and forcing the output into high-impedance state. After cooling by 10°C (to ~150°C), it automatically resumes regulation-resulting in pulsed output during sustained overload. This protects the device but may cause intermittent system resets if downstream circuitry lacks hold-up capacitance. To avoid this, ensure adequate PCB copper area under the exposed pad and verify power dissipation (P = I_OUT × (V_IN − 2.8V)) stays within thermal limits. The MAX8841ELT28+T's thermal protection is fully integrated-no external components needed.

Can the MAX8841ELT28+T be used with X5R or Y5V ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, the MAX8841ELT28+T is stable with 1µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitors across the full -40°C to +85°C range. However, Y5V dielectrics exhibit large capacitance and ESR variation with temperature; below -10°C, a 2.2µF or larger Y5V capacitor may be required for stability. For robust performance across all conditions, X5R or X7R is strongly recommended. The MAX8841ELT28+T's stability is verified with 1µF C_OUT and ESR as low as 0.01Ω-making it compatible with modern low-ESR MLCCs. Always place the capacitor within 3mm of the OUT and GND pins.