Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8888EZK18/V+

Overview

MAX8888EZK18/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator delivering 1.8V at up to 300mA continuous output, featuring an open-drain power-OK (POK) flag, 100mV dropout at 200mA, 55µA no-load supply current, and automotive-grade qualification (-40°C to +85°C). It serves as a primary voltage rail for microcontroller cores or memory in compact portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8888EZK18/V+ datasheet, MAX8888EZK18/V+ pinout, MAX8888EZK18/V+ application, or MAX8888EZK18/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include POK functionality, automotive temperature compliance, SOT23-5 package constraints, and dropout performance under pulsed load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX8888EZK18/V+ integrates a p-channel MOSFET pass transistor with 0.5Ω R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout without base-drive current overhead. Its internal 1.25V reference and error amplifier regulate output via fixed-resistor feedback, eliminating external components.

Power-OK detection compares V_OUT against 92.5% of nominal (1.665V), with 1% hysteresis; POK asserts low when regulation fails and remains low during shutdown. Thermal protection activates at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis, ensuring safe operation under sustained overload.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8888EZK18/V+ is housed in a RoHS-compliant, automotive-qualified 5-pin SOT23 package (1mm height, Z5-1 footprint), optimized for high-density PCB layouts and thermal dissipation on minimal copper area.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS7A0518PDBVR and MCP1700T-1802E/TT, the MAX8888EZK18/V+ uniquely combines automotive qualification, integrated POK, 300mA output, and 100mV dropout - making it the only option among the three that satisfies full functional and compliance requirements for automotive infotainment and telematics power rails.

Availability

MAX8888EZK18/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, telematics control units, and portable diagnostic tools requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q200 alignment and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX8888EZK18/V+ 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX8888 belongs to Maxim's low-dropout linear regulator product line, engineered specifically for battery-powered and automotive systems where low quiescent current, fast transient response, and integrated power monitoring are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for MAX8888EZK18/V+?

The MAX8888EZK18/V+ supports an input voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V. Absolute maximum rating is 7V on the IN pin relative to GND, but operation above 5.5V violates specifications and risks permanent damage. For automotive applications with load-dump transients, external clamping or pre-regulation is required before the MAX8888EZK18/V+ input.

Does MAX8888EZK18/V+ require external capacitors, and what values are recommended?

Yes, the MAX8888EZK18/V+ requires two external ceramic capacitors: a 2.2µF capacitor between IN and GND, and a 2.2µF capacitor between OUT and GND. Both must have ESR ≤ 0.1Ω. The OUT capacitor ensures stability and transient response; omitting it or using higher-ESR types may cause oscillation or poor regulation. No BP capacitor is needed - that pin is absent in the MAX8888 variant.

How does the POK output function on MAX8888EZK18/V+?

The POK output on MAX8888EZK18/V+ is an open-drain, active-low signal that goes low when VOUT falls below 92.5% of nominal (1.665V), with 1% hysteresis. It remains low during shutdown. To interface with logic inputs, connect a 100kΩ pullup resistor from POK to OUT. This configuration avoids level-shifting and ensures POK reflects true output regulation status without loading the output rail.

Is MAX8888EZK18/V+ pin-compatible with other MAX8888 variants like MAX8888EZK33+?

Yes, all MAX8888 variants including MAX8888EZK18/V+, MAX8888EZK33+, and MAX8888EZK29+ share identical 5-pin SOT23 pinout and electrical interface. Only the preset output voltage differs (1.8V vs. 3.3V vs. 2.85V); all other features - POK, SHDN behavior, thermal protection, and package dimensions - are functionally identical across the family.

What thermal protection behavior does MAX8888EZK18/V+ exhibit under overload?

Under thermal overload, the MAX8888EZK18/V+ activates internal thermal shutdown at 170°C junction temperature, turning off the pass transistor. After cooling by 20°C (to ~150°C), it automatically resumes regulation. This results in pulsed output during sustained overload - a fail-safe mechanism that prevents permanent damage while allowing recovery once ambient conditions improve. Continuous operation above TJ = +150°C is not recommended.