Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8860EUA27+T

Overview

The MAX8860EUA27+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator delivering 300mA at a fixed 2.77V output, operating from 2.5V to 6.5V input, with 60µVRMS output noise, 105mV dropout at 200mA, and 120µA no-load supply current. It serves as a precision core or I/O power supply in space-constrained portable electronics requiring stable, low-noise voltage regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8860EUA27+T datasheet, MAX8860EUA27+T pinout, MAX8860EUA27+T application, or MAX8860EUA27+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its Dual Mode™ configurability (fixed 2.77V or adjustable 1.25V–6.5V), FAULT indicator for regulation loss detection, reverse battery protection, and µMAX package compatibility with tight PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX8860EUA27+T integrates an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.5Ω) enabling low dropout and eliminating base-drive current, resulting in stable quiescent current across load and dropout conditions. Its Dual Mode™ comparator selects between internal feedback (SET = GND) for fixed 2.77V output or external resistor-divider feedback for adjustable operation.

Regulation relies on a 1.25V bandgap reference, error amplifier, and MOSFET driver; fault detection monitors both output regulation status and input-to-output differential voltage (threshold = 130mV at 200mA). Compensation uses a mandatory 33nF capacitor on the CC pin to stabilize loop response and suppress noise.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8860EUA27+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 1.1mm max height), optimized for high-density portable PCBs with exposed pad thermal enhancement.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS763275DBVT and MCP1702T-2702E/MB, the MAX8860EUA27+T uniquely combines 300mA drive, integrated FAULT reporting, reverse battery protection, and Dual Mode™ configurability in a thermally enhanced µMAX package-making it optimal for portable systems requiring both performance headroom and system-level safety features.

Availability

MAX8860EUA27+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless handsets, DSP core power supplies, PCMCIA cards, hand-held instruments, and palmtop computers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8860EUA27+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, medical, and portable applications.

The MAX8860 series was developed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics needing low-noise, low-dropout regulation with integrated fault monitoring and compact packaging-targeting wireless infrastructure, handheld computing, and instrumentation markets.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed output voltage tolerance for MAX8860EUA27+T over temperature?

The MAX8860EUA27+T guarantees a 2.77V output with ±3% tolerance across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. At +25°C, typical output is 2.77V with min/max of 2.73V/2.81V; at temperature extremes, it shifts to 2.70V/2.84V. This tight tolerance ensures reliable operation of 2.8V nominal logic without external trimming.

Can MAX8860EUA27+T be used in adjustable mode, and what is required?

Yes, the MAX8860EUA27+T can operate in adjustable mode by disconnecting the SET pin from GND and connecting it to an external resistor divider. The output voltage is set using V_OUT = 1.25V × (1 + R1/R2), with R2 = 100kΩ recommended. However, doing so disables the factory-trimmed 2.77V preset-MAX8860EUA27+T must be treated as a generic MAX8860 in this configuration, losing its 2.77V-specific calibration.

What is the minimum output capacitor required for stable operation of MAX8860EUA27+T?

The MAX8860EUA27+T requires a minimum 2.2µF ceramic output capacitor with ESR < 0.5Ω for stable operation across -40°C to +85°C and up to 300mA load. X7R dielectric in 1206 case is recommended. Larger values (e.g., 10µF) improve transient response and PSRR but are not required for basic stability-unlike many LDOs needing ≥10µF.

How does the FAULT pin on MAX8860EUA27+T behave during thermal shutdown?

During thermal shutdown, the FAULT pin on MAX8860EUA27+T goes low to indicate loss of regulation, consistent with its behavior during dropout or current limit. It remains low until junction temperature cools by ~20°C, at which point the device resumes regulation and FAULT returns high-impedance (open-drain). No external pull-up is needed if FAULT is unused, but a 100kΩ resistor to OUT is recommended for active monitoring.

Does MAX8860EUA27+T require the CC capacitor, and what happens if omitted?

Yes, the 33nF capacitor from CC to GND is mandatory for MAX8860EUA27+T stability, noise reduction, and transient performance. Omitting it causes oscillation, excessive output noise (>190µV_RMS), poor load regulation, and potential FAULT misassertion. The CC pin is not optional-it forms the integrator pole in the control loop and directly affects loop phase margin and settling time.