Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX11835EWA+T

Overview

MAX11835EWA+T from Maxim Integrated is a high-voltage haptic actuator controller with integrated boost regulator, I²C interface, and 192-byte waveform memory. It drives single-layer/multilayer piezo and electroactive polymer actuators with user-programmable waveforms (sine, trapezoidal, square, pulse) up to 250V peak, operating from 1.7V–3.6V DVDD and 2.7V–5.25V BVDD/AVDD, and used in mobile touch interfaces requiring precise tactile feedback.

For engineers reviewing the MAX11835EWA+T datasheet, MAX11835EWA+T pinout, MAX11835EWA+T application, or MAX11835EWA+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 400kHz I²C interface, on-chip 30V boost switch with programmable peak current, TRIG-triggered waveform playback, 1µA deep-sleep shutdown, and 25-pin WLP package (2.1mm × 2.1mm) with thermal shutdown and ±2kV HBM ESD protection.

Technical Context

The MAX11835EWA+T integrates a flyback-based DC-DC boost regulator with internal n-channel MOSFET and current-limit control to generate high-voltage drive signals up to 250V for piezo actuators while minimizing battery drain. Its waveform generator uses piecewise linear interpolation with 8-bit resolution and supports up to 16 preprogrammed patterns stored in 192 bytes of on-chip memory.

It features a dedicated TRIG input for low-latency haptic initiation independent of I²C, analog AIN for boost tracking (≤300Hz) and amplitude scaling, and DIS input to disable or reduce boost operation during high-current events. Power management includes programmable low-power modes and thermal shutdown protection.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX11835EWA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile communication devices, handheld gaming consoles, e-readers, and touch-enabled keypads requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX11835EWA+T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX11835EWA+T belongs to Maxim's TacTouch™ haptic controller product line, engineered specifically to deliver compact, high-efficiency, programmable tactile feedback solutions for space-constrained touch interfaces.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX11835EWA+T?

The MAX11835EWA+T is a haptic actuator controller that generates high-voltage waveforms to drive piezo and electroactive polymer actuators for tactile feedback. It integrates a boost regulator, waveform generator, and 192-byte pattern memory, enabling custom haptic effects via I²C or TRIG input. The MAX11835EWA+T supports up to 250V output and operates from low-voltage supplies, making it ideal for portable touch interfaces.

Does the MAX11835EWA+T require external components to generate high-voltage waveforms?

Yes - the MAX11835EWA+T requires an external flyback transformer and associated passive components (inductor, capacitor, diode) to complete the boost converter circuit. Its internal 30V n-channel MOSFET and current-limit control manage switching, but the flyback stage must be externally implemented to achieve up to 250V output. The MAX11835EWA+T datasheet provides reference design guidelines for this external network.

How many haptic waveforms can be stored and triggered on the MAX11835EWA+T?

The MAX11835EWA+T supports storage of up to 16 preprogrammed haptic waveforms in its 192-byte on-chip memory, each defined using piecewise linear data at 8-bit resolution. A dedicated TRIG input allows immediate playback of any selected waveform without I²C intervention, enabling sub-millisecond latency for responsive touch feedback. The MAX11835EWA+T also permits full I²C-based waveform upload and real-time parameter adjustment.

What are the power supply requirements for the MAX11835EWA+T?

The MAX11835EWA+T requires three separate supply domains: DVDD (1.7V–3.6V) for digital logic and I²C, AVDD (2.7V–5.25V) for analog circuits, and BVDD (2.7V–5.25V) for the boost converter. These rails may be supplied from shared or independent sources, but must meet voltage and decoupling specifications in the MAX11835EWA+T datasheet to ensure stable high-voltage waveform generation and low-noise operation.

Is there an evaluation kit available for the MAX11835EWA+T?

Yes - an evaluation kit is available for the MAX11835EWA+T, referenced as EVAL-MAX11835 in Maxim's documentation (Rev 2, April 2015). The kit includes a fully assembled PCB with the MAX11835EWA+T, supporting circuitry, flyback transformer, and USB-to-I²C interface for rapid waveform development and haptic effect tuning. The MAX11835EWA+T evaluation platform enables direct validation of timing, voltage scaling, TRIG response, and power consumption under real-world load conditions.