Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8885EUK26

Overview

MAX8885EUK26 from Maxim Integrated is a 150mA, low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 2.6V output (±1% accuracy), optimized for portable battery-powered systems using low-cost high-ESR tantalum capacitors. It operates from +2.5V to +6.5V input, delivers 110mV dropout at 100mA, features an open-drain power-OK (POK) output, and consumes only 85µA quiescent current - ideal for PCS phones and handheld instruments.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8885EUK26 datasheet, MAX8885EUK26 pinout, MAX8885EUK26 application, or MAX8885EUK26 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.6V preset output, SOT23-5 package compatibility, reverse-battery protection, thermal shutdown behavior, and explicit design suitability for 4.7µF tantalum (≥0.5Ω ESR) output capacitors - not ceramic.

Technical Context

The MAX8885EUK26 implements a P-channel MOSFET pass transistor (1.1Ω typical R_DS(ON)) enabling ultra-low quiescent current independent of load, unlike PNP-based LDOs. Its internal 1.25V bandgap reference feeds an error amplifier that controls the pass gate via feedback from a factory-trimmed resistor divider.

Power-OK detection uses an open-drain N-channel comparator monitoring V_OUT against a −5.3% threshold (2.467V at 2.6V nominal), with hysteresis ensuring clean release after regulation recovery. Thermal shutdown activates at +170°C with 20°C hysteresis, and reverse-battery protection limits sink current to ≤1mA when VIN or SHDN falls below GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8885EUK26 is housed in a miniature 5-pin SOT23-5 package (JEDEC MO-178AA), with GND serving as both electrical return and thermal path. The package requires soldering to a large copper pad or ground plane for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8885EUK26, MAX8875EUK26 trades reverse-battery protection and lower IQ for ceramic capacitor compatibility, while MIC5206-2.6BS sacrifices dropout performance and protection features for broader vendor availability - making MAX8885EUK26 the optimal choice for cost-sensitive, battery-powered designs requiring robustness and efficiency.

Availability

MAX8885EUK26 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCS phones, cordless phones, handheld instruments, and PCMCIA cards requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term sourcing and full traceability.

Supply support for MAX8885EUK26 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 MAX8885 series was designed specifically for portable battery-powered equipment needing ultra-low IQ, robust protection, and compatibility with low-cost tantalum capacitors - targeting cost-driven mobile and handheld markets.

FAQ

What is the exact output voltage tolerance of the MAX8885EUK26?

The MAX8885EUK26 has a factory-trimmed output voltage of 2.6V with ±1% accuracy over the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) and line/load conditions. This specification is guaranteed by production testing and correlation, not typical-only data. The MAX8885EUK26 achieves this precision using laser-trimmed internal feedback resistors, eliminating need for external components.

Can I use a ceramic capacitor instead of tantalum with the MAX8885EUK26?

No - the MAX8885EUK26 is explicitly designed and characterized for stability with high-ESR tantalum capacitors (4.7µF, ≥0.5Ω ESR). Ceramic capacitors have near-zero ESR and will cause oscillation or instability. For ceramic-compatible operation, use the pin-compatible MAX8875EUK26 instead. The MAX8885EUK26 datasheet's "Region of Stable COUT ESR vs. Load Current" graph confirms zero stability margin for ESR <0.5Ω.

What happens to the POK output of the MAX8885EUK26 during shutdown?

The POK output of the MAX8885EUK26 is inactive during shutdown - it enters a high-impedance state and does not assert low. POK only monitors regulation status when the device is enabled (SHDN = high). This behavior is documented in the "Detailed Description" section: "The POK function is not active during shutdown." Therefore, external logic must not rely on POK for shutdown sequencing.

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for the MAX8885EUK26?

The absolute maximum input voltage for the MAX8885EUK26 is +7V, but the recommended operating range is +2.5V to +6.5V. Exceeding +6.5V risks exceeding the 571mW continuous power dissipation limit in SOT23-5 at elevated temperatures. The MAX8885EUK26's internal protection does not include overvoltage clamping - sustained operation above +6.5V may cause irreversible damage.

Does the MAX8885EUK26 provide short-circuit protection, and how does it behave under fault?

Yes, the MAX8885EUK26 includes foldback current limiting and thermal shutdown. Under short-circuit, output current is limited to 160mA (min) to 600mA (max), with typical trip at 390mA. The device sustains indefinite short-circuit without damage, entering thermal shutdown if junction temperature exceeds +170°C. After cooling by 20°C, it automatically recovers - producing a pulsed output until fault removal. This behavior is verified per Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables.