Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8869EUE18+

Overview

MAX8869EUE18+ from Maxim Integrated is a 1A, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed +1.8V output, Microcap® technology, ±1% output voltage accuracy, 200mV dropout at 1A, and stable operation with only 1µF output capacitance. It delivers regulated power to core logic rails in notebook computers and telecom hardware where space, thermal performance, and supply noise rejection are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8869EUE18+ datasheet, MAX8869EUE18+ pinout, MAX8869EUE18+ application, or MAX8869EUE18+ equivalent, key selection factors include guaranteed 1A output under 2.7V–5.5V input, adjustable soft-start via external capacitor, open-drain RST with 3ms delay, thermal shutdown at +170°C, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic capacitors for high-frequency stability.

Technical Context

The MAX8869EUE18+ uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor enabling low 500µA quiescent current and 200mV dropout at full 1A load. Its Dual Mode architecture selects between factory-preset +1.8V output (SET tied to GND) and adjustable mode (SET biased externally), with a precise 800mV internal reference and 80mV SET threshold for mode detection.

It integrates a 3ms reset timer triggered when VOUT falls below 92% of nominal, foldback current limiting (1.7A short-circuit, 4A in-regulation), and thermal overload protection with +20°C hysteresis. The device operates across –40°C to +85°C and supports input undervoltage lockout at 2.45V typical.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8869EUE18+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed thermal pad (EP), rated for 1.5W dissipation and 1.1mm height - 30% smaller than SOT223. Thermal pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane for safe 1A operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS79618DRBR and MCP1826T-1802E/DB, the MAX8869EUE18+ uniquely combines 1A capability, 200mV dropout, ±1% accuracy, integrated RST with 3ms delay, and soft-start control - making it optimal for space-constrained, noise-sensitive, and sequenced-power systems where reliability and feature integration reduce external component count.

Availability

MAX8869EUE18+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, telecom line cards, mobile base stations, and industrial PLCs requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX8869EUE18+ 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, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX8869 product line delivers high-current, low-noise, thermally robust LDO regulators optimized for core voltage regulation in portable and infrastructure equipment where small size, low dropout, and integrated supervision are essential.

FAQ

What is the output voltage setting of MAX8869EUE18+?

The MAX8869EUE18+ is factory-configured for a fixed +1.8V output voltage, as indicated by the "18" suffix in its part number. This preset mode activates automatically when the SET pin is connected to GND, eliminating the need for external resistors. The device maintains ±1% output voltage accuracy over –40°C to +85°C and load currents up to 1A, ensuring stable core rail performance for digital ICs.

Does MAX8869EUE18+ require an external capacitor for stability?

Yes, the MAX8869EUE18+ requires a minimum 1µF ceramic output capacitor (COUT) connected between OUT and GND for guaranteed stability, per its Microcap® design. Input capacitor (CIN) of ≥1µF is also required. Both must be low-ESR, high-SRF surface-mount ceramics (e.g., X5R/X7R) placed within 6mm of the IC. Using capacitors outside these specifications may cause oscillation or degraded transient response in the MAX8869EUE18+.

How does the RST output function on MAX8869EUE18+?

The RST pin on MAX8869EUE18+ is an open-drain output that goes low when the +1.8V output falls below 92% of nominal (i.e., <1.656V), indicating undervoltage. It remains low for at least 3ms after VOUT recovers to regulation. A 100kΩ pull-up resistor to OUT is required to generate a logic-high signal. This built-in reset function eliminates the need for external supervisors in systems using MAX8869EUE18+ for microcontroller power-up sequencing.

Can MAX8869EUE18+ be used in adjustable-output mode?

No - the MAX8869EUE18+ is a fixed-output variant and is not intended for adjustable operation. While the underlying MAX8869 family supports adjustable mode via the SET pin, the EUE18+ variant is laser-trimmed and tested exclusively for +1.8V output. Using external resistors on SET may result in unpredictable regulation, loss of accuracy, or failure to meet datasheet specifications for the MAX8869EUE18+.

What thermal considerations apply to MAX8869EUE18+ at 1A load?

At 1A output with a 2.7V input and 1.8V output, MAX8869EUE18+ dissipates ~0.9W (P = IOUT × (VIN − VOUT)). Its 16-pin TSSOP-EP package requires the exposed pad (EP) and GND pin soldered to a ≥1in² PCB ground plane with multiple thermal vias to maintain junction temperature ≤+150°C. Without proper heatsinking, thermal shutdown triggers at +170°C, causing pulsed output. Derating is required above +70°C ambient per the 26.1mW/°C spec.