Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8880ETT+T

Overview

MAX8880ETT+T from Maxim Integrated is an ultra-low-quiescent-current (3.5µA), adjustable-output (1.25V–5.5V), 200mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 6-pin TDFN package, featuring reverse battery protection, thermal shutdown, short-circuit protection, and open-drain POK output for out-of-regulation monitoring - designed for long-life battery-powered smoke detectors and smart battery packs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8880ETT+T datasheet, MAX8880ETT+T pinout, MAX8880ETT+T application, or MAX8880ETT+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2Ω PMOS pass device enabling stable ultra-low-I_Q across dropout, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy over –40°C to +85°C, and compatibility with 1µF input / 4.7µF output ceramic capacitors for compact, reliable power management in space-constrained portable systems.

Technical Context

The MAX8880ETT+T implements a precision 1.25V internal reference and error amplifier driving a 2Ω P-channel MOSFET pass transistor - eliminating base-drive current losses inherent in PNP-based LDOs and maintaining 3.5µA supply current even under full dropout. Its feedback architecture accepts external resistor dividers on the FB pin to set output voltage from 1.25V to 5.5V.

Reverse battery protection limits IN-to-GND reverse leakage to <1mA when VIN < 0V, while integrated thermal shutdown (trip at +160°C, 15°C hysteresis) and foldback current limiting (250mA short-circuit limit) ensure robust fault handling. The open-drain POK output asserts low when VOUT falls >10% below regulation or during shutdown.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8880ETT+T uses a 3mm × 3mm, 6-pin TDFN package with exposed paddle (EP) connected to GND for thermal performance. Pin 1 is IN; Pin 2 is GND; Pin 3 is OUT; Pin 4 is FB; Pin 5 is SHDN; Pin 6 is POK; EP is thermal pad (must be soldered to PCB ground plane).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS78033DRVR and MCP1703T-3302E/MB, the MAX8880ETT+T uniquely combines adjustability, reverse battery protection, and integrated POK in a thermally enhanced TDFN - making it the only option among the three for compact, fully protected, programmable LDO applications.

Availability

MAX8880ETT+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smoke detectors, smart battery packs, and real-time clocks requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8880ETT+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, automotive, and portable applications.

The MAX8880/MAX8881 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, reverse-protected battery regulation in safety-critical and long-life portable systems - emphasizing quiescent current minimization, fault resilience, and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MAX8880ETT+T?

The MAX8880ETT+T has an absolute maximum input voltage of +14V, but its specified operating input range is 2.5V to 12V. Operation above 12V is not guaranteed for parametric performance or reliability, and sustained exposure near 14V may accelerate degradation. For 12V nominal battery systems (e.g., 3× alkaline), the MAX8880ETT+T operates safely within specification across full charge and discharge cycles.

How does the POK output function on the MAX8880ETT+T?

The POK output on the MAX8880ETT+T is an open-drain signal that pulls low when the regulated output falls more than 10% below its nominal value or when the device is in shutdown mode. During normal regulation, POK remains high-impedance. It requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 10kΩ to VOUT or system rail) and can drive reset inputs or microcontroller GPIOs directly. Its 1.5% hysteresis prevents chatter near the trip threshold.

Can the MAX8880ETT+T be used with ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, the MAX8880ETT+T is explicitly characterized and stable with ceramic output capacitors as low as 1µF and ESR up to 1Ω. For full 200mA load capability, a 4.7µF X7R or X5R ceramic capacitor with ≤0.5Ω ESR is recommended. The device's internal compensation eliminates need for series resistance, enabling compact, high-reliability filtering without tantalum or electrolytic components.

What is the purpose of the FB pin on the MAX8880ETT+T?

The FB (feedback) pin on the MAX8880ETT+T connects to the center node of an external resistor divider between OUT and GND, allowing precise adjustment of the output voltage from 1.25V to 5.5V. Internally, it references a stable 1.25V bandgap, and the error amplifier forces FB to this voltage - so VOUT = 1.25V × (1 + R3/R4). This architecture enables flexible voltage scaling without factory programming.

Does the MAX8880ETT+T provide reverse battery protection on the SHDN pin?

The MAX8880ETT+T provides reverse battery protection on the IN pin (<1mA reverse leakage at –12V), but **not** inherently on the SHDN pin. To protect SHDN from reverse polarity, Maxim recommends adding a 100kΩ series resistor between the control source and SHDN - which limits reverse current while preserving logic-level compatibility. Without this resistor, SHDN is only rated for –0.3V to (VIN + 0.3V), making direct connection to reversed battery unsafe.