Maxim Integrated's MAX708RCPA+ Microprocessor Supervisory Circuit

The MAX708RCPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a compact, highly reliable microprocessor (μP) supervisory circuit designed to monitor power supplies in μP and digital systems. It provides excellent circuit reliability and low cost by eliminating external components and adjustments when used in systems that require voltage monitoring. This supervisory circuit ensures that your microprocessor will reset to a known state during power failures or whenever the voltage level drops unpredictably.

Encased in an 8-pin PDIP package, the MAX708RCPA+ offers several key features that make it an essential component for system stability. Its primary function is to monitor the system voltage and assert a reset if the supply voltage drops below a predetermined threshold. The reset output remains asserted for a period after the supply voltage exceeds the reset threshold, ensuring the system has stabilized before the processor begins operation. This timeout period is factory-set to a minimum of 200ms, which helps prevent system errors during power-up, power-down, or brown-out conditions.

The MAX708RCPA+ also features a manual reset input, which allows for a system reset to be triggered with an external switch or logic signal. This is particularly useful for testing purposes or when a manual system reboot is necessary without cycling the power.

With its wide supply voltage range of 1.2V to 5.5V, the MAX708RCPA+ is versatile and can be used in a variety of applications. It is particularly well-suited for portable and battery-operated equipment due to its low power consumption. The quiescent current is typically only 12μA, which helps to extend battery life in power-sensitive applications.

Maxim Integrated's MAX708RCPA+ is designed for ease of use and reliability, making it an excellent choice for applications such as computers, controllers, intelligent instruments, critical μP power monitoring, and portable/battery-powered equipment. Its industry-standard PDIP package ensures compatibility with a wide range of PCB designs, and its robust feature set guarantees that your system operates reliably under various power conditions.

With the MAX708RCPA+, system designers can rest assured that their digital systems have an additional layer of protection against power supply anomalies, ensuring a more robust and dependable operation.