Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8860EUA18+

Overview

The MAX8860EUA18+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 1.8V output, delivering up to 300mA from 2.5V–6.5V input. It features 60µVRMS output noise, 105mV dropout at 200mA, 120µA no-load supply current, and an open-drain FAULT indicator. Used in DSP core power and handheld instruments where stable, low-noise 1.8V rail generation is critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8860EUA18+ datasheet, MAX8860EUA18+ pinout, MAX8860EUA18+ application, or MAX8860EUA18+ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, µMAX package layout, Dual Mode™ configurability (fixed/adjustable), reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown behavior, and real-world load-transient response data - all confirmed from Maxim's official documentation.

Technical Context

The MAX8860EUA18+ employs an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.5Ω) enabling low dropout and eliminating base-drive current loss. Its error amplifier compares a 1.25V bandgap reference against feedback from either internal resistors (for fixed 1.8V mode) or external SET-pin dividers (adjustable mode).

Dual Mode™ operation is controlled by the SET pin voltage: below 60mV forces internal feedback for preset regulation; above that threshold enables adjustable output. Fault detection monitors both regulation loss and insufficient VIN–VOUT differential (e.g., 130mV at 200mA), pulling the open-drain FAULT pin low under fault conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8860EUA18+ is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (2.1mm × 2.1mm, 1.1mm max height), optimized for space-constrained portable designs. Thermal resistance θ_JA = 244°C/W; requires PCB copper pour and vias for reliable 300mA operation at elevated ambient temperatures.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise, fixed-output LDO applications.

Compared with TPS76318DBVR and MCP1700T-1802E/TT, the MAX8860EUA18+ uniquely combines 300mA drive, integrated FAULT reporting, reverse battery protection, and Dual Mode™ flexibility - making it suitable for higher-reliability portable systems where robustness and diagnostic visibility are design priorities.

Availability

MAX8860EUA18+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless handsets, DSP core power supplies, and hand-held instruments requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed parametric performance across –40°C to +85°C.

Supply support for MAX8860EUA18+ 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and portable applications.

The MAX8860 series was designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics requiring low-noise, low-quiescent-current, and fault-aware voltage regulation - targeting DSPs, handheld instruments, and PCMCIA peripherals where reliability under variable input conditions is essential.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed output voltage tolerance for MAX8860EUA18+ over temperature?

The MAX8860EUA18+ guarantees a 1.8V output within ±3% (1.746V to 1.854V) across the full operating temperature range of –40°C to +85°C, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. At +25°C, typical output is 1.80V with tighter distribution; the ±3% limit ensures compatibility with 1.8V I/O standards in DSPs and microcontrollers under worst-case thermal and load conditions. This tolerance is trimmed at wafer sort and does not require external calibration.

Can MAX8860EUA18+ be used in adjustable-output mode despite its fixed-voltage part number?

Yes, the MAX8860EUA18+ supports adjustable-output mode via the SET pin. Though labeled for 1.8V, its Dual Mode™ architecture allows reconfiguration: disconnecting SET from GND and applying an external resistor divider enables output voltages from 1.25V to 6.5V. The internal 1.25V reference and error amplifier remain fully functional; the "EUA18" suffix only indicates factory-trimmed internal feedback for 1.8V - not hardware limitation.

What is the minimum output capacitor required for stable operation of MAX8860EUA18+?

The MAX8860EUA18+ requires a minimum 2.2µF ceramic output capacitor with ESR <0.5Ω for stable operation across –40°C to +85°C and 0–300mA load range. This value is validated in Maxim's Typical Operating Characteristics and Application Information sections. Larger capacitors (e.g., 10µF) improve transient response and PSRR at high frequencies but are not mandatory for basic regulation. X7R dielectric in 1206 case is recommended.

How does the FAULT pin behave during thermal shutdown on MAX8860EUA18+?

During thermal shutdown, the MAX8860EUA18+ pulls the FAULT pin low (≤0.25V at 2mA sink) to indicate loss of regulation - identical to its behavior during dropout or current-limit events. The FAULT pin remains low until junction temperature drops ~20°C below the +170°C trip point, at which point regulation resumes and FAULT returns to high-impedance state. No external debouncing is needed; the pin directly reflects real-time regulation status.

Does MAX8860EUA18+ require a minimum load current to maintain regulation?

Only when VIN > +5.5V: the MAX8860EUA18+ requires ≥50µA minimum load current in fixed-output mode to maintain regulation. Below 5.5V, no minimum load is needed. This requirement stems from internal biasing constraints at high input differentials and is explicitly stated in the Applications Information section. For most 1.8V applications powered from 3.0–4.2V Li-ion, this condition does not apply.