Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EUK39

Overview

MAX8877EUK39 from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with 3.9V preset output, 150mA maximum output current, 165mV dropout at full load, 30µVRMS output noise, and 100µA operating supply current. It uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass device and operates from 2.5V to 6.5V input, serving as a stable power source for battery-powered handheld instruments and PCMCIA cards.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EUK39 datasheet, MAX8877EUK39 pinout, MAX8877EUK39 application, or MAX8877EUK39 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage under 150mA load, ±1.4% output accuracy over temperature, shutdown current below 100nA, reverse battery protection, and SOT23-5 package compatibility with industry-standard '2982 footprint.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EUK39 implements a P-channel MOSFET pass transistor with 1.1Ω typical R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout and eliminating 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 thermal shutdown at +155°C with 15°C hysteresis, short-circuit current limiting (160–390mA), reverse battery protection limiting reverse current to 1mA, and logic-controlled active-low SHDN with 10nA standby current. The BP pin accepts a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor to form an 80Hz low-pass filter reducing reference noise.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EUK39 is housed in a 5-pin SOT23-5 regular package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND acting as both electrical return and thermal path. The package is RoHS-compliant and rated for -40°C to +85°C operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8878EUK39-T, the MAX8877EUK39 lacks auto-discharge but offers identical noise, accuracy, and quiescent performance; versus MCP1700T-3902E/TT, it delivers superior noise, dropout, and protection features at the cost of one extra pin and slightly higher BOM count.

Availability

MAX8877EUK39 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hand-held instruments, PCMCIA cards, and cordless telephones requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed parametric compliance across industrial temperature range.

Supply support for MAX8877EUK39 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, minimal quiescent current, and robust protection - targeting cellular handsets, handheld test equipment, and modular expansion interfaces.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8877EUK39 over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EUK39 guarantees ±1.4% output voltage accuracy across -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature and 0.1mA to 120mA load current, with tighter ±1.4% spec maintained for V_OUT ≥2.5V. This is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Output Voltage Accuracy" with test conditions explicitly covering full temp/load range. The 3.9V output remains within 3.845V–3.955V under all specified operating conditions, making it suitable for precision 3.3V/3.6V system rails.

Does the MAX8877EUK39 support reverse battery protection, and how does it behave?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK39 provides reverse battery protection by limiting reverse current to ≤1mA when either IN or SHDN falls below GND. Its internal circuitry actively disconnects parasitic paths and isolates internal blocks during reverse polarity events. This behavior is documented in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Detailed Description sections, and protects against damage in field-replaceable battery compartments where users may insert cells backward - a critical feature for consumer handheld devices.

What capacitor values are required for stable operation of the MAX8877EUK39?

For stable operation, the MAX8877EUK39 requires a minimum 1µF ceramic capacitor (ESR <0.2Ω) on OUT when V_OUT ≥2.5V - which applies directly to the 3.9V output. A 1µF ceramic capacitor is also required on IN. The BP pin needs a 0.01µF ceramic capacitor for optimal noise reduction. These values are specified in the Applications Information section and validated across temperature and load in the Region of Stable C_OUT ESR graph (Figure MAX8877-17).

How does the dropout voltage of the MAX8877EUK39 change with load and temperature?

The MAX8877EUK39 dropout voltage increases linearly with load due to its P-channel MOSFET's R_DS(ON); typical dropout is 165mV at 150mA and 55mV at 50mA. Over temperature, dropout rises modestly - Figure MAX8877-10 shows 165mV at +25°C, ~175mV at +85°C, and ~155mV at -40°C for 3.9V output. This behavior is inherent to the MOSFET architecture and is fully characterized in the Typical Operating Characteristics section.

Is the MAX8877EUK39 pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulator?

Yes, the MAX8877EUK39 is explicitly designed as a pin-compatible upgrade to the industry-standard '2982 family. Pin mapping (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT) matches the '2982 footprint in SOT23-5, and the datasheet confirms this in both the General Description and Pin Configuration sections. This allows drop-in replacement in existing designs without PCB modification, while delivering improved dropout voltage and lower noise than legacy '2982 variants.