Maxim Integrated MAX708SCSA+ Microprocessor Supervisory Circuit

The Maxim Integrated MAX708SCSA+ is a highly reliable microprocessor (µP) supervisory circuit designed to monitor power supplies and microprocessor activity in digital systems. It provides excellent circuit reliability and low cost by eliminating external components and adjustments when used in system monitoring applications.

This compact supervisory circuit ensures that the µP is reset to a known state during power-up, power-down, or brown-out conditions. The MAX708SCSA+ features a combination of functions such as reset output during power-up, power-down, and brown-out conditions, a manual reset input, and a watchdog timer. The integration of these features makes it an ideal choice for use in microprocessor systems, computers, controllers, and intelligent instruments.

Key features of the MAX708SCSA+ include:

• Reset Time Delay: The device has an internally set reset timeout period of 200ms, ensuring that the system has sufficient time to stabilize before normal operation commences.
• Watchdog Timer: A 1.6s watchdog timer is built-in, which helps to detect and recover from system malfunctions.
• Manual Reset Input: The manual reset input allows for a system reset to be initiated by external hardware or software, providing additional flexibility and control.
• Voltage Monitor: The MAX708SCSA+ continuously monitors the supply voltage and asserts a reset if it detects an out-of-tolerance condition, thereby protecting the system from unpredictable behavior.
• Low Power Consumption: Designed for energy-efficient operation, it typically consumes only 17µA of supply current.
• Wide Operating Voltage Range: The device operates over a wide voltage range of 1.0V to 5.5V, accommodating various digital systems and power conditions.
• Temperature Range: The MAX708SCSA+ is specified over the full industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.
• Small Footprint: The supervisory circuit is available in a compact 8-pin SO package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.

The MAX708SCSA+ is an essential component for enhancing system reliability and preventing data corruption during power failures or unexpected system behavior. Its integration in any microprocessor-based system ensures that the processor starts in the same state every time, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the system's operation.