Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8869EUE18+T

Overview

MAX8869EUE18+T 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 serves as a primary power supply for core logic in notebook computers and telecom hardware requiring tight regulation and low quiescent current.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8869EUE18+T datasheet, MAX8869EUE18+T pinout, MAX8869EUE18+T application, or MAX8869EUE18+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 1A continuous output, adjustable soft-start timing via external capacitor, 3ms reset delay, thermal shutdown at +170°C, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic capacitors down to 1µF.

Technical Context

The MAX8869EUE18+T employs an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor enabling 500µA quiescent current and eliminating base-drive losses typical of PNP-based regulators. Its Dual Mode architecture uses the SET pin to select between factory-preset +1.8V output (SET = GND) or adjustable mode (SET > 80mV), with a precise 0.8V internal reference.

It integrates a 3ms reset timer triggered when VOUT falls 8% below nominal, an open-drain RST output with 10µA leakage, foldback current limiting (1.0A short-circuit / 4.0A in-regulation), and thermal overload protection with +20°C hysteresis - all operating across -40°C to +85°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX8869EUE18+T 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.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TSM1086CZ18 and MCP1826T-1802E/DB, the MAX8869EUE18+T delivers superior regulation accuracy (±1% vs. ±2%), lower dropout (200mV vs. ≥300mV), integrated reset with 3ms delay, and stable operation with just 1µF output capacitance - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-powered, or noise-sensitive applications.

Availability

MAX8869EUE18+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, telecom line cards, mobile base station transceivers, and industrial PLC modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX8869EUE18+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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX8869 product line delivers compact, high-current LDOs with Microcap® stability and integrated protection features - designed specifically for space- and thermal-constrained applications in portable and infrastructure equipment.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8869EUE18+T over temperature?

The MAX8869EUE18+T guarantees ±1% output voltage accuracy at IOUT = 1mA and TA = +85°C, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. This tolerance holds across the full operating range of -40°C to +85°C, with typical deviation curves showing <±0.5% variation over temperature in typical operating conditions. The MAX8869EUE18+T achieves this via a precision 0.8V internal reference and trimmed feedback network.

Can the MAX8869EUE18+T be used with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 1µF?

No - the MAX8869EUE18+T is guaranteed stable only with ≥1µF ceramic output capacitance, as stated in the General Description and Applications Information sections. Using smaller values risks oscillation or degraded transient response due to insufficient phase margin. The device's Microcap® architecture is optimized for 1µF low-ESR ceramics; reducing capacitance violates the stability guarantee and is not supported by characterization data.

Does the MAX8869EUE18+T require external components for basic operation?

Yes - the MAX8869EUE18+T requires at minimum a 1µF ceramic capacitor on IN and a 1µF ceramic capacitor on OUT, both placed within 6mm of the IC per layout guidelines. The SHDN pin must be tied to IN for normal operation, and SET must be connected to GND for +1.8V fixed mode. Optional components include a pull-up resistor on RST (100kΩ to OUT) and a capacitor on SS for soft-start control.

How does the RST output of the MAX8869EUE18+T behave during shutdown?

During shutdown (SHDN = GND), the RST output of the MAX8869EUE18+T is actively driven low, as explicitly stated in the Pin Description section. This behavior persists regardless of VOUT level and ensures reliable power-on-reset sequencing even when the regulator is disabled. The RST signal remains valid down to VIN = 1.0V, supporting brownout detection in low-voltage scenarios.

What thermal derating applies to the MAX8869EUE18+T in its TSSOP-EP package?

The MAX8869EUE18+T has a continuous power dissipation limit of 2.0W at TA = +70°C, with derating of 26.1mW/°C above that temperature. This is enabled by the exposed thermal pad (EP), which must be soldered to a large PCB ground plane (≥1in² recommended). Without proper thermal pad connection, the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance increases significantly, reducing safe operating current - especially critical when operating near dropout (e.g., VIN = 2.0V, VOUT = 1.8V, IOUT = 1A).