Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8877EZK36+T

Overview

MAX8877EZK36+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-noise, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 3.6V 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 independent of load or dropout condition. Designed for battery-powered portable electronics requiring stable, quiet voltage regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8877EZK36+T datasheet, MAX8877EZK36+T pinout, MAX8877EZK36+T application, or MAX8877EZK36+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its thin SOT23-5 package, ±1.4% output accuracy over temperature, reverse battery protection, and logic-controlled 10nA shutdown mode - critical for ultra-low-power handheld instrumentation and communication devices.

Technical Context

The MAX8877EZK36+T uses an internal P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (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 (155°C trip, 15°C hysteresis), short-circuit current limiting (160–390mA), and reverse battery protection limiting reverse current to 1mA. Unlike the MAX8878 variant, it lacks auto-discharge but retains BP-pin noise filtering via external 0.01µF capacitor.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8877EZK36+T is housed in a thin 5-pin SOT23 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), optimized for space-constrained PCB layouts. The GND pin serves as both electrical return and thermal path - requires connection to a large copper pour for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8877EZK36+T, the MAX8877EUK36-T offers identical regulation performance in a taller package better suited for higher ambient temperatures, while the TCS2117-3.6 trades reverse protection and ultra-low noise for lower cost - making MAX8877EZK36+T optimal for safety-critical, noise-sensitive portable designs.

Availability

MAX8877EZK36+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular handsets, PCMCIA cards, hand-held instruments, and electronic planners requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8877EZK36+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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX8877 series was designed specifically for ultra-low-noise, low-quiescent-current regulation in space- and battery-constrained portable electronics - emphasizing dropout efficiency, thermal robustness, and reverse-polarity resilience.

FAQ

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

The MAX8877EZK36+T maintains output voltage within ±1.4% over the full -40°C to +85°C operating range. This specification is guaranteed across load currents from 0.1mA to 120mA and applies to the factory-preset 3.6V output. At +25°C, typical accuracy is tighter - within ±1.4% - and remains stable due to the internal bandgap reference and trimmed feedback divider.

Does MAX8877EZK36+T include auto-discharge functionality?

No, MAX8877EZK36+T does not include auto-discharge. That feature is exclusive to the MAX8878 variant (e.g., MAX8878EZK36+T). When placed in shutdown, MAX8877EZK36+T disables the pass transistor and draws only 10nA, but the output voltage decays only through external load or leakage - it does not actively discharge the output capacitor to ground.

What capacitor values are recommended for MAX8877EZK36+T input and output?

For MAX8877EZK36+T, use a minimum 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 = 3.6V (≥2.5V), 1µF is sufficient; for improved transient response, 3.3µF–10µF is recommended. A 0.01µF ceramic capacitor must be placed on the BP pin for low-noise operation.

Can MAX8877EZK36+T operate with a 2.7V input supply?

Yes, MAX8877EZK36+T can operate with a 2.7V input, but only in dropout: since its output is 3.6V, the minimum input for regulation is 3.6V + dropout voltage. At 2.7V input, the device cannot regulate - V_OUT will follow V_IN minus losses. For reliable 3.6V regulation, VIN must be ≥3.76V (3.6V + 165mV dropout at 150mA) or higher.

Is MAX8877EZK36+T pin-compatible with the industry-standard '2982 regulators?

Yes, MAX8877EZK36+T is explicitly designed as a pin-compatible upgrade to the industry-standard '2982 family. It shares the same 5-pin SOT23-5 pinout (IN, GND, SHDN, BP, OUT), allowing direct replacement in existing layouts without PCB modification - while delivering improved dropout voltage and lower output noise.