The MAX4838–MAX4842 are overvoltage protection ICs that protect low-voltage systems against voltages of up to 28V. If the input voltage exceeds the overvoltage trip level, the MAX4838–MAX4842 turn off the low-cost external n-channel FET(s) to prevent damage to the protected components. An internal charge pump eliminates the need for external capacitors and drives the FET gate for a simple, robust solution.

The MAX4838/MAX4839 have a 7.4V overvoltage threshold, and the MAX4840/MAX4841 have a 5.8V overvoltage threshold. The MAX4842 has a 4.7V overvoltage threshold. The MAX4838–MAX4841 have an undervoltage lockout (UVLO) threshold of 3.25V while the MAX4842 has a UVLO of 3.0V. In addition to the single FET configuration, the devices can be configured with back-to-back external FETs to prevent currents from being back-driven into the adapter.

On power-up, the device waits for 50ms before driving GATE high. Active-low FLAG is held low for an additional 50ms after GATE goes high before deasserting. The MAX4838/MAX4840/MAX4842 have an open-drain active-low FLAG output, and the MAX4839/MAX4841 have a pushpull FLAG output. The active-low FLAG output asserts immediately to an overvoltage fault.

Additional features include a 15kV ESD-protected input (when bypassed with a 1µF capacitor) and a shutdown pin (active-low EN) to turn off the device (MAX4838/MAX4840/MAX4842).

All devices are offered in a small 6-pin SC70 package and are specified for operation from -40°C to +85°C.

Applications

• Cell Phones
• Digital Still Cameras
• MP3 Players
• PDAs and Palmtop Devices