Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15037ATE/V+T

Overview

MAX15037ATE/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a synchronous buck DC-DC converter IC with integrated 150mΩ high-side n-channel MOSFET, delivering up to 3A output current, supporting 5.5V–23V input voltage, and offering resistor-programmable switching frequency from 200kHz to 2.2MHz. It drives an external low-side MOSFET via dedicated synchronous rectifier driver (DL) and provides power-good (PGOOD) monitoring for server and networking point-of-load regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15037ATE/V+T datasheet, MAX15037ATE/V+T pinout, MAX15037ATE/V+T application, or MAX15037ATE/V+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its synchronous buck topology, PGOOD output timing (92.5% VOUT threshold, 3μs propagation), thermal shutdown at +170°C, 16-pin TQFN package with exposed pad, and compatibility with 4.7μF VL bypass and 0.22μF BYPASS capacitors.

Technical Context

The MAX15037ATE/V+T implements voltage-mode PWM control with peak current limiting and adaptive break-before-make (25ns tBBM) to prevent shoot-through between internal high-side and external low-side MOSFETs. Its internal 5.2V VL regulator powers control circuitry and supplies bootstrap charging during off-time.

It features digital soft-start (4096 oscillator cycles, 64-step ramp), external synchronization support (200kHz–2.2MHz SYNC input), and frequency foldback under overload-reducing fSW to 25% of programmed value when current limit triggers-to sustain safe operation during short-circuit events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX15037ATE/V+T is housed in a thermally enhanced 16-pin thin QFN (5mm × 5mm) with exposed pad (EP), rated for -40°C to +125°C operation. The exposed pad must be soldered to SGND for optimal thermal dissipation (θ_JC = 1.7°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with MP2451DT-LF-Z and TPS54332DDAR, MAX15037ATE/V+T uniquely combines 5.5V–23V input range, 200kHz–2.2MHz programmability, PGOOD with sub-μs propagation, and 16-pin TQFN thermal design-making it optimal for high-reliability, thermally dense, and EMI-sensitive embedded power systems.

Availability

MAX15037ATE/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server point-of-load regulation, automotive infotainment power, and WLAN access point DC-DC conversion requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX15037ATE/V+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 demanding industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX15037ATE/V+T belongs to Maxim's high-frequency synchronous buck converter product line, engineered specifically for compact, high-efficiency point-of-load regulation in thermally constrained environments with stringent reliability requirements.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage supported by the MAX15037ATE/V+T?

The MAX15037ATE/V+T requires a minimum input voltage of 5.5V for proper operation of its internal VL regulator. Below 5.5V, the device is not specified-unlike the MAX15036, it lacks 4.5V–5.5V input mode. Attempting to operate below 5.5V risks undervoltage lockout or unstable regulation. Always verify V+ ≥5.5V in your design when using MAX15037ATE/V+T.

Does the MAX15037ATE/V+T support boost topology?

No, the MAX15037ATE/V+T is designed exclusively for synchronous buck topology and does not support boost operation. Its internal architecture, pin functions (e.g., DL driver, PGOOD), and protection schemes are optimized for step-down conversion only. For boost capability, refer to the MAX15036ATE/V+T variant instead-MAX15037ATE/V+T cannot be reconfigured for boost.

How is the switching frequency set on the MAX15037ATE/V+T?

The switching frequency of the MAX15037ATE/V+T is set using an external resistor (ROSC) connected from the OSC pin to SGND. The relationship is f_SW ≈ 125×10⁸ / R_OSC (Ω), enabling adjustment from 200kHz to 2.2MHz. Even when using external SYNC, ROSC must be installed and tuned to ensure f_SW stays within ±20% of f_SYNC for reliable synchronization.

What is the purpose of the DL pin on the MAX15037ATE/V+T?

The DL pin on the MAX15037ATE/V+T is the synchronous rectifier driver output, designed to actively drive the gate of an external low-side n-channel MOSFET. It sources 0.75A and sinks 1A with adaptive break-before-make timing (25ns), eliminating body-diode conduction losses and enabling >90% efficiency at medium-to-heavy loads-unlike nonsynchronous alternatives that rely on lossy Schottky diodes.

Can the MAX15037ATE/V+T be used without connecting the exposed pad (EP)?

No-the exposed pad (EP) of the MAX15037ATE/V+T must be soldered to SGND for both thermal and electrical integrity. With θ_JA = 30°C/W and max power dissipation of 2.7W, omitting EP connection risks junction temperatures exceeding +150°C under 3A load, triggering thermal shutdown. Maxim specifies EP-to-SGND connection as mandatory in layout guidelines and absolute maximum ratings.