Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8881EUT25C01007

Overview

MAX8881EUT25C01007 from Maxim Integrated is a fixed-output, ultra-low-quiescent-current LDO linear regulator delivering 2.5V at up to 200mA with 3.5µA supply current, ±1.5% output accuracy, and integrated reverse-battery protection - designed for long-life battery-powered smoke detectors and real-time clocks.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8881EUT25C01007 datasheet, MAX8881EUT25C01007 pinout, MAX8881EUT25C01007 application, or MAX8881EUT25C01007 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage (100–200mV at 50mA), POK open-drain fault indicator, thermal shutdown threshold (160°C), and SOT23-6 package compatibility with space-constrained portable systems.

Technical Context

The MAX8881EUT25C01007 integrates a 2Ω PMOS pass transistor and 1.25V internal reference to achieve low dropout and stable regulation without external feedback components. Its architecture eliminates base-drive current loss typical of PNP regulators, enabling consistent 3.5µA quiescent current across input voltages from 2.5V to 12V and full load range including dropout.

It features an open-drain POK output that asserts low when VOUT falls >10% below nominal or during shutdown, plus reverse-battery protection limiting IN-to-GND reverse leakage to <1mA. Thermal shutdown activates at +160°C with 15°C hysteresis, and short-circuit protection uses foldback current limiting (250mA at VIN = 5V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8881EUT25C01007 is housed in a 6-pin SOT23-6 package (JEDEC MO-178AA) with exposed pad not present - footprint compatible with standard SOT23 pick-and-place equipment and reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS78225DRVT and MCP1700T-2502E/TT, MAX8881EUT25C01007 uniquely balances 200mA delivery, 3.5µA IQ, reverse-battery hardening, and integrated POK - making it optimal for safety-critical, long-duration battery systems where reliability trumps marginal IQ reduction.

Availability

MAX8881EUT25C01007 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smoke detectors, battery-powered alarms, and real-time clocks requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX8881EUT25C01007 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, automotive, and computing applications.

The MAX8880/MAX8881 product line delivers ultra-low-IQ LDOs with reverse-battery protection and POK monitoring - engineered specifically for multi-year battery operation in safety-critical portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current of the MAX8881EUT25C01007?

The MAX8881EUT25C01007 supports up to 200mA continuous output current. This rating is validated across the full operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and input voltage range (2.5V to 12V). The device includes foldback current limiting that reduces output current to ~250mA during short-circuit events at VIN = 5V, preventing thermal runaway while maintaining safe operation. Derating is required above +70°C ambient per the 8.7mW/°C thermal coefficient of the SOT23-6 package.

Does the MAX8881EUT25C01007 require external feedback resistors to set its output voltage?

No, the MAX8881EUT25C01007 does not require external feedback resistors. It is factory-configured for a fixed 2.5V output using internal precision resistors. Pin 4 (FB) is internally connected to the OUT pin, eliminating the need for external components. This differs from the adjustable MAX8880 variant, which requires an external resistor divider on the FB pin. Using the MAX8881EUT25C01007 simplifies design, reduces BOM cost, and improves long-term voltage stability by avoiding resistor tolerance drift.

How does the POK (Power-OK) output function on the MAX8881EUT25C01007?

The POK output on the MAX8881EUT25C01007 is an open-drain signal that goes low when the regulated output falls more than 10% below its nominal 2.5V value or when the device is in shutdown mode. During normal regulation, POK remains in high-impedance state and requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 10–100kΩ to VOUT or another rail). Its 1.5% hysteresis prevents chatter near the trip point. Engineers use POK to trigger microcontroller resets, enable supervisory logic, or drive status LEDs - providing hardware-level fault detection independent of software polling.

Can the MAX8881EUT25C01007 operate with a 2.5V input voltage?

Yes, the MAX8881EUT25C01007 can operate with a 2.5V input voltage, but only at zero load current due to its dropout characteristics. At 200mA load, the minimum input is ~2.7V (2.5V + 200mV typical dropout); at 50mA, it drops to ~2.6V. The absolute minimum input voltage specification is 2.5V, verified under no-load conditions. For reliable 2.5V output delivery across full load range, maintain VIN ≥ 2.7V. Input undervoltage lockout activates below 2.1V to prevent erratic behavior during brownout.

Is reverse-battery protection active on all pins of the MAX8881EUT25C01007?

Reverse-battery protection on the MAX8881EUT25C01007 is explicitly implemented on the IN pin, limiting reverse leakage current to <1mA when VIN is forced below ground (e.g., -12V). Protection is not extended to SHDN, POK, or FB pins - those inputs retain standard absolute maximum ratings (e.g., SHDN to GND: -0.3V to VIN+0.3V). To protect SHDN from reverse polarity, Maxim recommends adding a 100kΩ series resistor between the battery and SHDN pin, as documented in the datasheet's Reverse Battery Protection section.