Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8874TEUK

Overview

MAX8874TEUK from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 3.15V output, delivering up to 120mA from a +2.5V to +6.5V input. It features 55mV dropout at 50mA, 82µA operating supply current independent of load, and integrated auto-discharge during shutdown. Designed for battery-powered portable devices, it supports cordless phones and cellular handsets where low quiescent current and precise voltage regulation extend runtime.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8874TEUK datasheet, MAX8874TEUK pinout, MAX8874TEUK application, or MAX8874TEUK equivalent, key selection criteria include its SOT23-5 package, Dual Mode™ operation (fixed/adjustable), ±3.5% total output error, reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown at +170°C, and active output discharge in shutdown mode.

Technical Context

The MAX8874TEUK uses a P-channel MOSFET pass transistor with 1.1Ω typical R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout and eliminating base-drive current loss. Its internal 1.25V bandgap reference feeds an error amplifier that drives the MOSFET gate via a dedicated driver stage, maintaining regulation across load and line variations.

Dual Mode™ operation is implemented via a 60mV threshold comparator monitoring the SET pin: grounding SET selects fixed 3.15V output using trimmed internal resistors; external resistor divider on SET enables adjustable output from 1.25V to 6.5V. The MAX8874 variant adds active discharge through a 300Ω internal switch between OUT and GND when SHDN is asserted.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 5-pin SOT23 (U6F-6 outline), RoHS-compliant, -40°C to +85°C operating range. GND pin serves as electrical ground and primary thermal path-requires connection to large copper area for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout, low-quiescent-current regulator applications.

Compared with LP2980AIM5-3.3/NOPB and TPS76333DBVR, the MAX8874TEUK provides tighter output voltage alignment to 3.15V for legacy 3.3V logic with margin, unique auto-discharge functionality, and integrated reverse battery protection-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-constrained portable designs where safety and runtime are prioritized over minimal quiescent current.

Availability

MAX8874TEUK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cordless telephones, cellular handsets, and hand-held instruments requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and consistent parametric performance.

Supply support for MAX8874TEUK 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 is a semiconductor company specializing in analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, sensing, and communications applications.

The MAX887x series was designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics, emphasizing ultra-low quiescent current, small footprint, and robust protection features-including auto-discharge and reverse battery tolerance-to maximize runtime and reliability in space-constrained devices.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8874TEUK?

The MAX8874TEUK has a total output voltage error of ±3.5% over temperature and line/load conditions. This includes initial accuracy, line regulation (±0.15%/V), load regulation (±0.03%/mA), and thermal drift. At +25°C, the typical output is 3.15V, with guaranteed minimum 3.05V and maximum 3.25V across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range. This tolerance ensures compatibility with 3.3V logic families while accommodating battery voltage sag.

Does the MAX8874TEUK require external components for stable operation?

Yes, the MAX8874TEUK requires at least a 1µF input capacitor (CIN) and a 1µF output capacitor (COUT) with <0.2Ω typical ESR for stable operation across all loads up to 120mA and temperatures from -40°C to +85°C. Larger capacitors improve transient response and PSRR; a 10µF CIN is recommended if the device is located >2 inches from the power source. The SET pin must never be left floating-connect to GND for fixed output or to an external resistor divider for adjustable mode.

How does the auto-discharge function work in the MAX8874TEUK?

The MAX8874TEUK activates its auto-discharge function when the SHDN pin is pulled low: an internal 300Ω switch connects the OUT pin directly to GND, actively discharging any stored charge on the output capacitance. This occurs within 200µs (typical), ensuring the output reaches near-zero volts rapidly. Unlike passive discharge paths, this feature eliminates residual voltage that could inadvertently power downstream circuitry or cause latch-up during system sleep modes.

What protection features are integrated into the MAX8874TEUK?

The MAX8874TEUK integrates four key protections: (1) thermal shutdown triggers at +170°C with 20°C hysteresis, cycling the output during sustained overload; (2) short-circuit protection limits output current to ~280mA (120–420mA design range); (3) reverse battery protection restricts reverse current to <1mA when VIN or SHDN falls below GND; and (4) overvoltage tolerance up to +7V on IN and SHDN pins. These features eliminate the need for external protection circuitry in portable designs.

Can the MAX8874TEUK be used in adjustable-output mode?

Yes, the MAX8874TEUK supports adjustable-output mode via the SET pin. Connect an external resistor divider between OUT and GND, with the junction feeding SET. The output voltage follows V_OUT = 1.25V × (1 + R1/R2), where R2 is typically 100kΩ. To ensure stability and accuracy, the total current through the divider must exceed 10µA, and a 10–25pF capacitor should be placed across R1 to compensate for layout parasitics. In this mode, the fixed 3.15V output is disabled.