Maxim Integrated MAX879LESA Voltage Detector Overview

The MAX879LESA from Maxim Integrated is a precision, low-power microprocessor (µP) supervisory circuit designed to monitor power supplies in µP and digital systems. It provides a significant level of system reliability with its ability to reset a µP during power-up, power-down, and brownout conditions.

This voltage detector comes in a compact 8-pin SOIC package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications. It is specifically engineered to maintain system integrity by monitoring the power supply voltage level and ensuring that it remains within acceptable limits for the operation of digital circuits.

Key Features of MAX879LESA

• Reset Threshold Options: The device offers factory-trimmed V<sub>CC reset threshold voltages ranging from 2.5V to 5V, catering to a wide range of applications and ensuring compatibility with different logic levels.
• Low Power Consumption: With a quiescent current of only 17µA, the MAX879LESA is ideal for battery-powered devices, contributing to extended battery life and reduced power costs.
• Manual Reset Capability: A manual reset input allows the user to trigger a reset externally, providing an additional layer of system control and diagnostic capability.
• Reset Output Stage: The reset output is available in both push-pull and open-drain configurations, providing flexibility in interfacing with other system components.
• Guaranteed Reset: The device guarantees a valid reset signal down to V<sub>CC = 1V, ensuring the µP resets properly even during low-voltage conditions.
• Debounced Manual Reset Input: The manual reset input is internally debounced, eliminating false triggers due to switch bounce or noisy environments.
• Immune to Short V<sub>CC Transients: The MAX879LESA is designed to ignore short V<sub>CC transients, maintaining stable operation during brief power interruptions.

Applications

With its robust feature set, the MAX879LESA is well-suited for a variety of applications, including:

• Computers and Controllers
• Battery-Powered Equipment
• Intelligent Instruments
• Embedded Systems
• Portable Electronics

The MAX879LESA is a reliable and versatile choice for designers looking to enhance system stability and safety in their digital and microprocessor-based systems.