Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EUK33+T

Overview

MAX8877EUK33+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with 3.3V preset output, 150mA maximum output current, 165mV dropout at full load, 30µVRMS output noise, and 100µA operating supply current. It serves as a primary voltage regulator in battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable, clean power under varying load and input conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EUK33+T datasheet, MAX8877EUK33+T pinout, MAX8877EUK33+T application, or MAX8877EUK33+T equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 150mA, ultra-low shutdown current (10nA), reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown behavior, and BP-capacitor–dependent noise reduction.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EUK33+T 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 1.25V bandgap reference against feedback from an internal resistor divider tied to the OUT pin.

It integrates logic-controlled active-low shutdown (SHDN), reverse-battery protection that limits reverse current to 1mA, thermal shutdown at +155°C with 15°C hysteresis, and current limiting set to 160mA (min) to 390mA (max). The BP pin enables noise filtering via an external 0.01µF capacitor forming an 80Hz low-pass filter with an internal 200kΩ resistor.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EUK33+T is housed in a 5-pin SOT23-5 regular package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND serving as both electrical return and thermal path. PCB layout requires soldering the GND pad to a large copper area for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700T-3302E/MB and TCS2113-33IDBVR, the MAX8877EUK33+T uniquely combines ultra-low noise (30µVRMS), industry-leading dropout (165mV @ 150mA), reverse battery protection, and 10nA shutdown-making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-sensitive portable systems where reliability and runtime are prioritized over minimal quiescent current alone.

Availability

MAX8877EUK33+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular handsets, PCMCIA cards, palmtop computers, and electronic planners requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8877EUK33+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 ultra-low noise, low dropout, and robust protection features-including reverse battery tolerance and thermal hysteresis-in miniature SOT23 packages.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8877EUK33+T over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EUK33+T delivers 3.3V output with ±1.4% accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and for load currents from 0.1mA to 120mA. At +25°C and 0.1mA load, the tolerance tightens to ±1.4% (not ±1.0%), and the device maintains regulation up to 150mA maximum output current. This accuracy is factory-trimmed and does not require external components.

Does the MAX8877EUK33+T include thermal shutdown protection?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK33+T incorporates thermal-overload protection that activates at +155°C junction temperature and includes 15°C hysteresis. When triggered, the pass transistor turns off completely, allowing the die to cool before automatically resuming regulation. This protects the device during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design, and is fully specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables.

Can the MAX8877EUK33+T be used with input voltages below 2.5V?

No-the MAX8877EUK33+T has a minimum input voltage specification of 2.5V per its Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics. Operation below 2.5V is not guaranteed and may result in loss of regulation or undefined behavior. For 3.3V output, the minimum functional input is 3.465V (3.3V + 165mV dropout), but the absolute lower limit remains 2.5V regardless of load.

What capacitor values are required for stable operation of the MAX8877EUK33+T?

For stable operation, the MAX8877EUK33+T requires a minimum 1µF ceramic input capacitor (CIN) and a 1µF–10µF ceramic output capacitor (COUT) with ESR < 0.2Ω. Since VOUT = 3.3V ≥ 2.5V, a 1µF COUT is sufficient. A 0.01µF ceramic capacitor must be placed on the BP pin to achieve the specified 30µVRMS noise performance. Larger COUT values improve transient response but are not required for stability.

Is the MAX8877EUK33+T pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulators?

Yes-the MAX8877EUK33+T is explicitly designed as a pin-compatible upgrade to the industry-standard µA78Lxx and MC78Lxx families (collectively referenced as "'2982" in Maxim documentation). It shares identical SOT23-5 pinout (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT), enabling drop-in replacement while improving dropout voltage, noise, and protection features over legacy parts.