Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EZK36+

Overview

MAX8877EZK36+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with preset 3.6V 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 transistor and operates from 2.5V to 6.5V input, serving as a stable voltage source for battery-powered handheld instruments and PCMCIA cards.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EZK36+ datasheet, MAX8877EZK36+ pinout, MAX8877EZK36+ application, or MAX8877EZK36+ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 150mA, shutdown current (10nA), reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown behavior (155°C), and BP-capacitor–dependent noise reduction.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EZK36+ implements a fixed-output LDO architecture using a P-channel MOSFET pass element with 1.1Ω typical R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout and load-independent quiescent current. Its error amplifier compares a 1.25V bandgap reference against feedback from an internal resistor divider tied to the OUT pin.

It integrates reverse battery protection that limits reverse current to 1mA when IN or SHDN falls below GND, plus thermal shutdown with 15°C hysteresis and current limiting set to 160–390mA. The BP pin connects to an internal 200kΩ resistor forming an 80Hz low-pass filter with an external 0.01µF capacitor to suppress reference noise.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EZK36+ is housed in a 5-pin thin SOT23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with exposed pad not electrically connected. The GND pin serves as both circuit return and primary thermal path-requires soldering to 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 MAX8878EZK36+, the MAX8877EZK36+ omits auto-discharge but retains identical regulation performance, noise, and protection features-making it optimal for systems where shutdown discharge is handled externally. Against MCP1700T-3602E/MB, MAX8877EZK36+ delivers superior dropout, integrated protection, and lower noise at the cost of two extra pins and slightly higher BOM count.

Availability

MAX8877EZK36+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hand-held instruments, PCMCIA cards, palmtop computers, and electronic planners requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for MAX8877EZK36+ 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 quiescent current, low noise, and robust fault protection-targeting handheld instrumentation and compact computing platforms.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8877EZK36+ over temperature and load?

The MAX8877EZK36+ guarantees ±1.4% output voltage accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and for output currents from 0.1mA to 120mA. At 25°C and 0.1mA load, the tolerance tightens to ±1.4% (not ±1.0%), and variation versus temperature is less than ±0.02%/°C per typical curves-ensuring stable 3.6V operation in handheld instruments and palmtop computers under real-world conditions. The MAX8877EZK36+ does not require external trimming.

Does the MAX8877EZK36+ support reverse battery protection, and how does it behave?

Yes, the MAX8877EZK36+ includes integrated reverse battery protection that limits reverse current to ≤1mA when either the IN or SHDN pin falls below GND potential. This is achieved by disconnecting internal circuitry and parasitic paths-preventing damage during accidental battery reversal in devices like electronic planners or hand-held instruments. Unlike discrete diode solutions, this feature adds no forward voltage drop or power loss during normal operation.

What capacitor values are required for stable operation of the MAX8877EZK36+?

For stable operation, the MAX8877EZK36+ requires a minimum 1µF ceramic input capacitor (X5R/X7R dielectric) and a 1µF output capacitor with ESR <0.2Ω for 3.6V output (VOUT ≥2.5V). A 0.01µF ceramic capacitor must be placed on the BP pin to achieve the specified 30µVRMS noise. Using larger output capacitance (e.g., 10µF) improves load-transient response but does not affect stability margins per the manufacturer's validated region of stable COUT ESR vs. load current.

How does the MAX8877EZK36+ perform in dropout, and what is its quiescent current behavior there?

The MAX8877EZK36+ maintains 100µA quiescent current even when operating in dropout (i.e., VIN ≤ VOUT + dropout voltage), unlike PNP-based regulators whose IQ rises sharply under saturation. At 150mA load, dropout is 165mV-so the device continues regulating down to VIN = 3.76V. This consistent low IQ directly extends battery runtime in palmtop computers and PCMCIA cards where input voltage decays over time.

Is the MAX8877EZK36+ pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulator?

Yes, the MAX8877EZK36+ is fully pin-compatible with the industry-standard µA78Lxx and MC78Lxx series (collectively referenced as '2982 in Maxim documentation), using the same SOT23-5 pinout: IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT. This allows direct replacement in existing designs without PCB modification-delivering improved dropout (165mV vs. ~500mV), lower noise (30µVRMS vs. >100µVRMS), and added protections including reverse battery and thermal shutdown.