Maxim Integrated's MAX800LCPE Microprocessor Supervisory Circuit

The MAX800LCPE is a state-of-the-art microprocessor (µP) supervisory circuit designed and manufactured by Maxim Integrated. This precision device is engineered to monitor power supplies in µP and digital systems, providing excellent circuit reliability and low cost by eliminating external components and adjustments when used in conjunction with +5V-powered circuits.

At the heart of the MAX800LCPE is its ability to significantly enhance system reliability through its monitoring features. It provides four key functions: a reset output during power-up, power-down, and brownout conditions; a 1.25V threshold detector for power-fail warning, low-battery detection, or to monitor another power supply voltage; a watchdog timer to ensure the µP is operating correctly; and an active-high manual-reset input.

The reset output of the MAX800LCPE guarantees a proper system startup by holding the µP's reset line active for at least 150ms after power-up, thereby ensuring the power supply and processor are fully stabilized. The reset output remains active if the supply voltage drops below the reset threshold, safeguarding the system against unpredictable behavior due to dips in the power supply.

The integrated watchdog timer serves as an autonomous system checker. If the µP does not toggle the watchdog input within a preset timeout period, the MAX800LCPE will assert a system reset, prompting a reliable system restart. This feature is crucial for systems that require high reliability and autonomous recovery from software lockups.

Its power-fail warning feature and low-battery detection provide early signals to the µP for impending power failure, allowing for critical data storage and other preparatory actions before actual power loss occurs. The manual-reset input allows for a simple push-button reset, enabling easy user-initiated system restarts.

The MAX800LCPE comes in a compact 16-pin plastic DIP package, making it suitable for high-density PCB layouts. With its combination of monitoring functions and ease of integration, the MAX800LCPE is an excellent choice for managing system integrity in a wide range of applications, from computers and controllers to critical monitoring systems.