Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EUK30

Overview

MAX8877EUK30 from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 3.0V output, delivering up to 150mA from a 2.5V–6.5V input. It features 30µVRMS output noise, 165mV dropout at 150mA, and 100µA operating supply current independent of load or dropout condition. Designed for battery-powered portable electronics, it integrates reverse-battery protection, thermal shutdown, and logic-controlled shutdown.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EUK30 datasheet, MAX8877EUK30 pinout, MAX8877EUK30 application, or MAX8877EUK30 equivalent, key selection criteria include its SOT23-5 package compatibility with '2982, ±1.4% output voltage accuracy over temperature, 10nA shutdown current, and BP-capacitor–enabled noise filtering - all critical for space-constrained, low-power, noise-sensitive power rail design.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EUK30 uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (1.1Ω typical R_DS(ON)) to achieve low dropout and eliminate base-drive current loss. Its error amplifier compares a stable 1.25V bandgap reference against feedback from an internal resistor divider tied to the OUT pin, enabling precise regulation without external components.

It incorporates dedicated circuitry for reverse-battery protection (limits reverse current to 1mA), thermal shutdown at +155°C with 15°C hysteresis, and a 10nA logic-low SHDN input that disables regulation and disconnects internal paths - but excludes auto-discharge (a MAX8878-only feature).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EUK30 is housed in a 5-pin SOT23-5 regular package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND serving as both electrical return and thermal path. The package footprint matches industry-standard '2982 regulators, enabling drop-in replacement in existing layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8877EUK30, MAX8860EUK30 trades noise and protection for lower cost, while MCP1700T-3002E/MB prioritizes nanowatt shutdown over regulation precision and transient fidelity - making MAX8877EUK30 the sole choice where 30µV_RMS noise, 165mV dropout, and reverse-battery robustness are jointly required.

Availability

MAX8877EUK30 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular handsets, PCMCIA cards, and palmtop computers requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8877EUK30 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 demanding industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX8877/MAX8878 product line was engineered specifically for battery-powered portable devices needing ultra-low noise, minimal dropout, and robust fault protection - targeting cellular telephony, handheld instrumentation, and compact computing platforms.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8877EUK30 over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EUK30 delivers a nominal 3.0V output with ±1.4% accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range and for load currents from 0.1mA to 120mA. This specification is guaranteed by production testing and statistical correlation - not typical-only data - ensuring consistent regulation in real-world portable equipment environments where thermal cycling and variable load profiles are common.

Does the MAX8877EUK30 include auto-discharge functionality during shutdown?

No, the MAX8877EUK30 does not include auto-discharge. That feature is exclusive to the MAX8878 family members (e.g., MAX8878EUK30). When the MAX8877EUK30 enters shutdown via the SHDN pin, the output remains floating at its last regulated voltage; external circuitry is required to discharge the output if needed. This distinction is clearly documented in the functional diagram and pin description sections of the MAX8877/MAX8878 datasheet.

What capacitor values are required for stable operation of the MAX8877EUK30?

For stable operation, the MAX8877EUK30 requires a minimum 1µF ceramic capacitor (ESR <0.2Ω) on the OUT pin and a 1µF ceramic capacitor on the IN pin. The BP pin must be decoupled with a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor. These values are validated across -40°C to +85°C and up to 150mA load - using X7R/X5R dielectrics ensures stable capacitance; Z5U/Y5V types may require ≥2× capacitance at low temperatures.

How does the MAX8877EUK30 achieve low output noise compared to standard LDOs?

The MAX8877EUK30 achieves 30µV_RMS output noise through a dedicated BP (bypass) pin connected internally to a 200kΩ resistor, forming an 80Hz low-pass filter with an external 0.01µF capacitor. This architecture isolates noise reduction from the main regulation loop, avoiding stability compromises. Standard LDOs lack this separate filter path and typically exhibit >100µV_RMS noise without additional external filtering.

Is the MAX8877EUK30 pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulator?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK30 is explicitly designed as a pin-compatible upgrade to the industry-standard '2982 regulator. It shares identical SOT23-5 pinout (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT), mechanical dimensions, and terminal functions - enabling drop-in replacement without PCB layout changes. This compatibility is confirmed in the General Description, Pin Configuration, and Ordering Information sections of the official datasheet.