Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8860EUA28+

Overview

The MAX8860EUA28+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 2.82V 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 supplies where stable, low-noise voltage rails are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8860EUA28+ datasheet, MAX8860EUA28+ pinout, MAX8860EUA28+ application, or MAX8860EUA28+ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 200mA, FAULT detection threshold tracking, thermal shutdown hysteresis, reverse battery protection, and compatibility with 2.2µF ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The MAX8860EUA28+ employs an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (R_DS(ON) ≈ 0.5Ω) enabling low dropout and eliminating base-drive current loss. Its Dual Mode™ architecture uses a 60mV SET-pin threshold to auto-select between fixed 2.82V regulation (SET = GND) and adjustable mode (1.25V–6.5V).

Regulation relies on a 1.25V bandgap reference, error amplifier, and MOSFET driver. Fault detection monitors both output regulation loss and input-to-output differential voltage-dropping FAULT low when V_IN–V_OUT falls below 130mV at 200mA load, ensuring line/load regulation integrity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8860EUA28+ is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3.0mm × 3.0mm × 1.1mm max height), optimized for space-constrained portable designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS76328DBVR and MCP1702T-2802E/MB, the MAX8860EUA28+ delivers 300mA with lower dropout (105mV vs. ≥120mV), integrated FAULT signaling, reverse battery protection, and Dual Mode configurability-making it uniquely suited for thermally demanding, battery-critical DSP and instrumentation applications.

Availability

MAX8860EUA28+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless handsets, DSP core power, PCMCIA cards, hand-held instruments, palmtop computers, and electronic planners requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX8860EUA28+ 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 communications applications.

The MAX8860 series was developed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics requiring low-noise, low-dropout regulation with fault visibility and reverse-polarity resilience-targeting DSP, handheld computing, and instrumentation markets.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed output voltage tolerance for MAX8860EUA28+ over temperature?

The MAX8860EUA28+ guarantees a 2.82V output with ±3% tolerance across the full –40°C to +85°C operating range, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. At +25°C, the typical output is 2.82V with min/max of 2.75V/2.90V. This tight tolerance ensures reliable operation of 2.8V nominal DSP cores without additional margining.

Does MAX8860EUA28+ require external resistors to set its 2.82V output?

No, the MAX8860EUA28+ is factory-trimmed for fixed 2.82V output and requires no external resistors. Simply connect the SET pin to GND to activate preset mode. External resistors are only needed if using the device in adjustable mode (1.25V–6.5V), which is not applicable to the MAX8860EUA28+ variant.

What is the minimum output capacitor value required for stable operation of MAX8860EUA28+?

The MAX8860EUA28+ 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. The datasheet confirms stability with X7R 1206 2.2µF/16V capacitors; larger values improve transient response but are not mandatory.

How does the FAULT pin behave during thermal shutdown on MAX8860EUA28+?

During thermal shutdown, the MAX8860EUA28+ drives the FAULT pin low to indicate loss of regulation-identical to its behavior during dropout or current-limit events. FAULT remains low until junction temperature cools by ~20°C, at which point regulation resumes and FAULT returns high-impedance (requires external pull-up to assert logic high).

Can MAX8860EUA28+ operate with input voltages above 5.5V?

Yes, the MAX8860EUA28+ supports inputs up to 6.5V, but when VIN > 5.5V in fixed-output mode, a minimum 50µA load current is required to maintain regulation. This is due to internal bias current limitations at high input voltages; ensure sufficient system load or add a bleed resistor if light-load operation is needed above 5.5V.