Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8888EZK26+T

Overview

MAX8888EZK26+T from Maxim Integrated is a low-dropout linear regulator delivering up to 300mA continuous output current with 100mV dropout at 200mA, 2.6V fixed output voltage, and open-drain power-OK (POK) flag. It operates from 2.5V–5.5V input, features 55µA no-load supply current and thermal/short-circuit protection, and is used in battery-powered wireless handsets and notebook computers.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8888EZK26+T datasheet, MAX8888EZK26+T pinout, MAX8888EZK26+T application, or MAX8888EZK26+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 300mA load capability, POK flag timing behavior, dropout performance near end-of-battery-life, and SOT23-5 footprint compatibility with PCB layout constraints for portable systems.

Technical Context

The MAX8888EZK26+T integrates a p-channel MOSFET pass transistor with 0.5Ω R_DS(ON), enabling low dropout and load-independent 55µA quiescent current. Its error amplifier compares feedback from an internal 1.25V reference and fixed resistor divider to regulate 2.6V output.

It implements foldback current limiting (420mA typical at V_OUT ≥ 93% of nominal), thermal shutdown at +170°C with 20°C hysteresis, and an open-drain POK output that asserts low when V_OUT falls below 92.5% of 2.6V - all within a 1mm-high 5-pin SOT23 package.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX8888EZK26+T is housed in a 1mm-thin 5-pin SOT23 package (package code Z5-1), optimized for space-constrained portable PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX8888EZK26+T, the XC6219B262MR-G trades POK functionality for lower shutdown current, while the ADP125ARHZ-2.6-R7 offers greater current headroom at the cost of missing integrated power monitoring and requiring PCB redesign for its 6-pin layout.

Availability

MAX8888EZK26+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless handsets, notebook computers, and digital cameras requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX8888EZK26+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, computing, and portable applications.

The MAX8888EZK26+T belongs to Maxim's low-dropout linear regulator product line, engineered specifically for battery-powered devices where small size, low quiescent current, and reliable power sequencing are essential.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the MAX8888EZK26+T over temperature and load?

The MAX8888EZK26+T delivers 2.6V output with ±3% accuracy across the full -40°C to +85°C operating temperature range and for load currents from 100µA to 300mA. This specification is guaranteed by design and confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table of the official datasheet. The MAX8888EZK26+T maintains this tolerance without external trimming or feedback components due to its factory-trimmed internal resistor divider.

Does the MAX8888EZK26+T require an external capacitor on the BP pin?

No, the MAX8888EZK26+T does not use the BP (bypass) pin - that pin is present only on the MAX8887 variant for noise reduction. The MAX8888EZK26+T replaces BP with the POK pin. Therefore, no capacitor is required or recommended on pin 4 (POK) of the MAX8888EZK26+T; instead, a 100kΩ pullup resistor from POK to OUT is needed for proper logic-level operation.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX8888EZK26+T to maintain regulation at 300mA load?

At 300mA load, the MAX8888EZK26+T exhibits a typical dropout voltage of 150mV (per Electrical Characteristics table). Therefore, the minimum input voltage to sustain 2.6V output is 2.6V + 0.15V = 2.75V. This value ensures regulation under worst-case conditions including temperature variation and device tolerance; actual performance may allow slightly lower VIN depending on unit-to-unit variation and PCB thermal design.

How does the POK output of the MAX8888EZK26+T behave during shutdown?

During shutdown (SHDN = GND), the MAX8888EZK26+T drives the POK pin low regardless of output voltage level. This behavior is explicitly documented in the Pin Description and Detailed Description sections. The POK pin remains actively pulled low in shutdown mode, providing a consistent reset signal to downstream logic - a feature that simplifies system-level power sequencing compared to regulators where POK becomes high-impedance or undefined during disable.

Is the MAX8888EZK26+T RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the "+T" suffix in MAX8888EZK26+T denotes a lead(Pb)-free, RoHS-compliant package per Maxim's Ordering Information table. The device uses a standard 5-pin SOT23 package (Z5-1) with matte tin lead finish and complies with JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL-1), allowing unlimited floor life at ≤30°C/60% RH. Full compliance documentation is available through Maxim's website and authorized distributors.