Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EZK30+T

Overview

MAX8877EZK30+T 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 - designed for battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable, clean power under light-to-moderate load.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EZK30+T datasheet, MAX8877EZK30+T pinout, MAX8877EZK30+T application, or MAX8877EZK30+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its thin SOT23-5 package, reverse battery protection, 10nA shutdown current, and factory-preset 3.0V ±1.4% accuracy - critical for space-constrained, low-power embedded systems.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EZK30+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, enabling precise regulation without external resistors.

It integrates thermal shutdown (155°C trip, 15°C hysteresis), short-circuit protection, and reverse battery protection that limits reverse current to 1mA. Unlike the MAX8878 variant, it lacks auto-discharge - shutdown places the output in high-impedance state without active discharge.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EZK30+T is housed in a thin 5-pin SOT23 package (SOT23-5 Thin), optimized for PCB area and thermal performance in compact portable designs. The GND pin serves as both electrical ground and primary thermal path - requires connection to a large copper pour or ground plane for reliable power dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS76330DBVR and MCP1700-3002E/TO, the MAX8877EZK30+T uniquely balances ultra-low noise (30µV_RMS), industry-leading reverse battery protection, and thermally robust shutdown - making it optimal for medical, telecom, and industrial portable designs where reliability and signal integrity are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX8877EZK30+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular telephones, PCMCIA cards, and hand-held medical instruments requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for MAX8877EZK30+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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX8877/MAX8878 family was engineered specifically for battery-powered portable electronics - emphasizing ultra-low noise, minimal quiescent current, and robust fault protection in miniature SOT23 packages.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8877EZK30+T over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EZK30+T delivers a factory-preset 3.0V 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. This specification is guaranteed by production testing and correlation using Statistical Quality Control methods - ensuring consistent performance in real-world portable device environments without external trimming.

Does the MAX8877EZK30+T include auto-discharge functionality during shutdown?

No, the MAX8877EZK30+T does not include auto-discharge. That feature is exclusive to the MAX8878 variant. When the MAX8877EZK30+T is placed in shutdown (SHDN = low), the output enters a high-impedance state but remains floating - external circuitry must manage discharge if required. This design preserves simplicity and minimizes leakage in applications where controlled discharge is unnecessary.

What capacitor values are recommended for stable operation of the MAX8877EZK30+T?

For stable operation, use a 1µF ceramic capacitor (X7R/X5R dielectric, ESR <0.2Ω) on the IN pin and a minimum 1µF ceramic capacitor on the OUT pin. For V_OUT = 3.0V (≥2.5V), 1µF is sufficient; for lower outputs, 3.3µF is recommended. A 0.01µF ceramic capacitor must be placed on the BP pin to achieve specified 30µV_RMS noise performance - larger values increase startup time without meaningful noise benefit.

How does the MAX8877EZK30+T handle reverse battery connection?

The MAX8877EZK30+T incorporates integrated reverse battery protection that limits reverse current to less than 1mA when either the IN or SHDN pin falls below GND potential. This is achieved by disconnecting internal circuitry and parasitic paths - preventing damage to the IC and downstream components in cases of incorrect battery insertion or accidental polarity reversal in consumer handheld products.

What is the thermal performance difference between the regular and thin SOT23-5 packages for the MAX8877EZK30+T?

The MAX8877EZK30+T in the thin SOT23-5 package (EZK suffix) has a junction-to-board thermal resistance (θ_JB) of 110°C/W, compared to 140°C/W for the regular SOT23-5 (EUK suffix). This 21% lower thermal resistance allows higher power dissipation - up to 727mW at +70°C versus 571mW - making the thin variant better suited for space-constrained designs where board-level heatsinking is limited.