Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EUK30+T

Overview

MAX8877EUK30+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 3.0V output, 150mA maximum output current, 165mV dropout at full load, and 30µVRMS output noise. It features an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, 100µA operating supply current (independent of load or dropout), and logic-controlled shutdown with 10nA quiescent current. It is used in battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable, low-noise voltage regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EUK30+T datasheet, MAX8877EUK30+T pinout, MAX8877EUK30+T application, or MAX8877EUK30+T equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 150mA, output voltage accuracy (±1.4%), thermal and short-circuit protection, reverse battery protection, and compatibility with 0.01µF BP bypass capacitor for noise reduction.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EUK30+T uses an internal 1.25V bandgap reference and error amplifier to regulate output via a 1.1Ω typical P-channel MOSFET pass transistor - eliminating base-drive current and enabling consistent 100µA supply current across load and dropout conditions. Its feedback is implemented through an internal resistor divider, fixing VOUT at 3.0V with ±1.4% accuracy over temperature and load.

It integrates thermal shutdown (155°C trip, 15°C hysteresis), output current limiting (160–390mA), reverse battery protection (limits reverse current to 1mA), and active-low SHDN with 10nA shutdown current. Unlike the MAX8878 variant, it lacks auto-discharge functionality - the output remains floating during shutdown.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EUK30+T is housed in a RoHS-compliant, lead-free 5-pin SOT23-5 regular package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND serving as both electrical reference and thermal path. The package measures 2.9mm × 1.6mm × 1.1mm and is optimized for high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS76330DBVR and MCP1700T-3002E/MB, the MAX8877EUK30+T uniquely combines ultra-low noise (30µVRMS), industry-leading dropout (165mV @150mA), reverse battery protection, and thermal shutdown in a pin-compatible SOT23-5 package - making it optimal for high-reliability, noise-sensitive portable designs.

Availability

MAX8877EUK30+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular telephones, PCMCIA cards, hand-held instruments, and palmtop computers requiring stable component supply, guaranteed long-term availability, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8877EUK30+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 consumer applications.

The MAX8877/MAX8878 product line was designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics demanding low noise, low dropout, and ultra-low quiescent current - targeting cellular handsets, PCMCIA peripherals, and handheld test equipment.

FAQ

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

The MAX8877EUK30+T delivers a nominal 3.0V output with ±1.4% accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and for output currents from 0.1mA to 120mA. This specification is guaranteed by production testing and statistical correlation, ensuring consistent rail stability in portable equipment exposed to ambient thermal cycling.

Does the MAX8877EUK30+T include thermal shutdown protection?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK30+T incorporates thermal-overload protection that activates at a junction temperature of +155°C, with 15°C hysteresis. When triggered, the pass transistor shuts off to allow cooling; it automatically resumes regulation once the die cools below +140°C - providing safe, self-recovering operation under sustained overload or poor heatsinking conditions.

Can the MAX8877EUK30+T be used with input voltages below 2.5V?

No - the absolute minimum input voltage for the MAX8877EUK30+T is 2.5V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. Operation below this threshold may result in loss of regulation, increased noise, or undefined behavior. For sub-2.5V inputs, consider alternative regulators such as the MAX8860 series.

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

For stable operation, the MAX8877EUK30+T requires a minimum 1µF ceramic input capacitor (CIN) and a 1µF ceramic output capacitor (COUT) with ESR <0.2Ω for VOUT ≥2.5V. A 0.01µF ceramic capacitor must be placed on the BP pin. Larger COUT values (e.g., 10µF) improve PSRR and transient response but do not affect basic stability.

Is the MAX8877EUK30+T pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulator?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK30+T is explicitly designed as a pin-compatible upgrade to the industry-standard µA78Lxx and '2982 family of LDOs. It shares identical SOT23-5 pinout (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT), enabling direct replacement in existing layouts while delivering lower dropout, lower noise, and enhanced protection features without PCB modification.