Charge pump for bipolar rails or voltage doubling
The MAX868EUB+ from Maxim Integrated is a charge pump IC that generates a regulated output voltage either equal to -Vin (inverted) or 2Vin (doubled), selected by the output configuration. It delivers up to 30 mA from a 1.8 V to 5.5 V input, switching between 270 kHz and 630 kHz. No inductor is needed — just a few external capacitors. The fixed output eliminates feedback resistor dividers, saving board space. Typical applications include generating a negative bias for LCD displays, a boosted rail for op-amp supplies, or a dual-rail supply from a single battery in portable instruments. The -40°C to 85°C operating range suits industrial and outdoor equipment.
30 mA output — what it means for the load
The 30 mA current rating is the maximum the charge pump can source. That is enough for a small LCD bias rail, a handful of op-amps, or a reference supply — but not for a power amplifier or a relay coil. If your load draws more than 30 mA, you need a higher-current charge pump or a switching regulator with an inductor. The fixed output voltage (either -Vin or 2Vin) means no external resistor divider for setting the output; the trade-off is no adjustability.
Active production, ROHS3 compliant
The MAX868EUB+ is listed as Active and ROHS3 Compliant. No end-of-life notice or last-time-buy window is on record. For current pricing and availability, submit an RFQ — the part is sourced through independent distribution and quoted to order.