Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EUK36+T

Overview

MAX8877EUK36+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with 3.6V preset output, 150mA max output current, 165mV dropout at full load, and 30µVRMS output noise. It uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor, delivers 100µA operating supply current independent of load or dropout, and features logic-controlled shutdown (10nA) for battery-powered portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EUK36+T datasheet, MAX8877EUK36+T pinout, MAX8877EUK36+T application, or MAX8877EUK36+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed ±1.4% output voltage accuracy over temperature, reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown at 155°C, and stable operation with 1µF ceramic output capacitor for VOUT ≥ 2.5V.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EUK36+T implements a fixed-output LDO architecture using a 1.25V bandgap reference, error amplifier, and internal resistor divider to regulate 3.6V output. Its P-channel MOSFET pass device (1.1Ω typical RDS(ON)) eliminates base-drive current, enabling constant 100µA quiescent current across all load and dropout conditions.

It integrates reverse-battery protection limiting reverse current to 1mA, thermal shutdown with 15°C hysteresis, and short-circuit current limiting (160–390mA). The BP pin accepts a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor to form an 80Hz low-pass filter that reduces reference noise, directly enabling the 30µVRMS output noise specification.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EUK36+T is housed in a 5-pin SOT23-5 regular package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND pin serving as both electrical return and primary thermal path. PCB layout requires soldering GND 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 LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS76336DBVR and MCP1703T-3602E/MB, the MAX8877EUK36+T offers the lowest dropout (165mV) and lowest noise (30µVRMS) among 3.6V 150mA LDOs, making it optimal for battery-constrained RF and precision analog systems where both voltage headroom and spectral purity are critical.

Availability

MAX8877EUK36+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular telephones, PCMCIA cards, hand-held instruments, and palmtop computers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed parametric performance across industrial temperature range.

Supply support for MAX8877EUK36+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 requiring ultra-low noise, low dropout, and minimal quiescent current without sacrificing protection features or output accuracy.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed output voltage tolerance for MAX8877EUK36+T over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EUK36+T guarantees ±1.4% output voltage accuracy across -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature and 0.1mA to 120mA load current, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. This tolerance includes initial calibration, line regulation, load regulation, and thermal drift-no external trimming is needed for 3.6V applications.

Can MAX8877EUK36+T operate with a 2.7V input supply?

Yes, MAX8877EUK36+T can operate with a 2.7V input, but only at reduced output current. Since its minimum input is 2.5V and dropout is 165mV at 150mA, a 2.7V input supports ≤120mA before entering dropout. At 2.7V input, the device delivers full 3.6V output up to ~100mA, verified in Typical Operating Characteristics Figure MAX8877-10.

What capacitor is required on the BP pin of MAX8877EUK36+T, and why?

The BP pin of MAX8877EUK36+T requires a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor to ground. This forms an RC filter (with internal 200kΩ) that attenuates reference noise below 80Hz, directly enabling the 30µVRMS output noise spec. Larger values (>0.1µF) increase startup delay without improving noise, per Shutdown Exit Delay graphs MAX8877-21/22.

Does MAX8877EUK36+T include thermal shutdown protection?

Yes, MAX8877EUK36+T includes thermal shutdown protection that activates at +155°C junction temperature and re-enables only after cooling by 15°C hysteresis. This prevents permanent damage during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design, and is documented in Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics sections.

Is MAX8877EUK36+T pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulator?

Yes, MAX8877EUK36+T is explicitly pin-compatible with the industry-standard µA78Lxx and MC78Lxx '2982 family, sharing identical SOT23-5 pinout (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT). This allows drop-in replacement in existing designs without PCB changes, as confirmed in the General Description and Pin Configuration sections.