Power management for handhelds — what the 4.1V to 8V input means
The MAX8663ETL+ from Maxim Integrated is a power management IC designed specifically for handheld and mobile devices. Its input voltage range of 4.1V to 8V covers single-cell Li+ (3.7V nominal, 4.2V full) through two-cell alkaline or USB VBUS, making it a direct fit for battery-powered portable gear. The 900µA supply current is the number to watch for always-on subsystems — it stays low enough that the PMIC itself doesn't dominate the sleep budget.
40-TQFN (5x5) — rework and layout notes
The 40-TQFN (5x5) package with exposed pad is the footprint you'll be working with. Surface-mount only, and that exposed pad needs a solid via stitch to the ground plane — without it, thermal performance drops fast. The 5x5 mm body is small enough for tight handheld PCBs but still hand-reworkable with hot air if you preheat the board. Pin 1 orientation is marked; double-check the silkscreen before placing, because a mis-oriented QFN is a lift-and-replace job.
Temperature range and environment
Rated for -40°C to 85°C operating temperature, so this PMIC can live in outdoor handheld terminals, automotive cabin gear, or industrial portable instruments — not just consumer tablets. The industrial temp range also means it handles the self-heating from the 900µA draw plus any pass-transistor dissipation without derating issues.
Sourcing and lifecycle
ROHS3 compliant, so it clears the current environmental directives for new builds.