Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8860EUA18+T

Overview

MAX8860EUA18+T 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, and 120µA no-load supply current. Designed for battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable, low-noise core voltage regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8860EUA18+T datasheet, MAX8860EUA18+T pinout, MAX8860EUA18+T application, or MAX8860EUA18+T equivalent, key selection factors include its Dual Mode™ configurability (fixed/adjustable), FAULT indicator functionality, reverse battery protection, and µMAX package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX8860EUA18+T integrates 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 1.8V preset) or external SET-pin dividers.

Dual Mode™ operation is controlled by the SET pin voltage: grounding SET selects fixed 1.8V output; floating or resistor-biased SET enables adjustable 1.25V–6.5V regulation. Fault detection monitors both regulation loss and insufficient VIN–VOUT differential (e.g., 130mV at 200mA), pulling open-drain FAULT low.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8860EUA18+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm × 1.1mm max height), thermally enhanced with exposed paddle (internally connected to GND).

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+T uniquely combines 300mA drive, 105mV dropout, integrated FAULT signaling, and reverse battery protection in a thermally robust µMAX package-making it optimal for demanding portable systems where reliability, headroom, and diagnostics are critical.

Availability

MAX8860EUA18+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless handsets, DSP core power supplies, and hand-held instrumentation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX8860EUA18+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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX8860 series was designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics needing low-noise, low-dropout regulation with diagnostic capability and robust fault handling in miniature packages.

FAQ

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

The MAX8860EUA18+T guarantees a 1.8V output within ±3% over the full –40°C to +85°C operating range, with typical performance of 1.77V to 1.83V at +25°C. This tight tolerance ensures reliable logic-level compatibility for 1.8V I/O standards in portable processors and FPGAs without requiring post-regulation trimming.

Does MAX8860EUA18+T require external components to operate in fixed 1.8V mode?

Yes, MAX8860EUA18+T requires only two external capacitors: a 2.2µF ceramic capacitor on IN and another 2.2µF ceramic capacitor on OUT, plus a 33nF capacitor from CC to GND. The SET pin must be connected to GND to activate fixed 1.8V mode - no feedback resistors are needed, simplifying layout and reducing BOM count.

How does the FAULT pin function on MAX8860EUA18+T, and what conditions trigger it?

The FAULT pin on MAX8860EUA18+T is an open-drain output that goes low during dropout, current limiting, thermal shutdown, or when the input-to-output differential falls below the fault threshold (e.g., 130mV at 200mA). It remains high-impedance in shutdown mode. A pull-up resistor to OUT is required to generate a logic-high signal when regulation is valid.

Can MAX8860EUA18+T be used with input voltages above 5.5V?

Yes, MAX8860EUA18+T supports inputs up to 6.5V, but when VIN exceeds 5.5V, a minimum load current of 50µA is required to maintain regulation in fixed-voltage mode. This ensures internal biasing remains stable; no additional loading is needed for VIN ≤ 5.5V.

What thermal performance can be expected from MAX8860EUA18+T in its µMAX package?

MAX8860EUA18+T has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 244°C/W in the 8-pin µMAX package. At 300mA and 2.5V input (0.7V dropout), power dissipation is 210mW, resulting in ~51°C junction rise above ambient - well within the 150°C absolute maximum rating when mounted on standard FR-4 with adequate copper area.