Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15038ETG+
- Part No.:
- MAX15038ETG+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 24-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX15038ETG+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 4A 24TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX15038ETG+ from Maxim Integrated is a high-efficiency, voltage-mode synchronous step-down DC-DC regulator with integrated 31mΩ high-side and 24mΩ low-side nMOS switches, delivering up to 4A continuous output current across 0.6V–90% of VIN (2.9V–5.5V input). It features adjustable 500kHz–2MHz switching frequency, ±1% output voltage accuracy over load/line/temperature, and supports all-ceramic capacitor designs for POL applications in servers, ASIC/CPU cores, and DDR power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the MAX15038ETG+ datasheet, MAX15038ETG+ pinout, MAX15038ETG+ application, or MAX15038ETG+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 24-pin TQFN package with exposed pad, nine-pin-programmable output voltages (0.6V–2.5V), monotonic startup into prebiased outputs, and compatibility with ceramic/polymer/electrolytic output capacitors - critical for compact, high-transient-response power delivery.
Technical Context
The MAX15038ETG+ employs voltage-mode control architecture with a 28MHz bandwidth error amplifier and type III compensation support, enabling loop bandwidth up to 20% of switching frequency for fast transient response. Its fixed-frequency PWM operation (500kHz–2MHz) is resistor-programmable via FREQ pin, and skip mode selection improves light-load efficiency without compromising stability.
Internal protection includes cycle-by-cycle overcurrent limiting with hiccup-mode recovery, thermal shutdown at +165°C (25°C hysteresis), and undervoltage lockout on VDD (2.35V–2.55V falling, 2.6V–2.8V rising). The IC supports monotonic startup via MODE pin configuration and provides open-drain PWRGD with 90–92.5% VREFIN threshold and 48-clock-cycle deglitching.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | Continuous 4A over temperature - enables single-chip core/I/O rail supply without external MOSFETs or heatsinking. |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.9V to 5.5V - compatible with 3.3V and 5V intermediate bus architectures for on-board point-of-load regulation. |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.6V to 90% of VIN - supports sub-1V CPU/DSP cores and scalable I/O rails including DDR termination voltages. |
| Switching Frequency | 500kHz to 2MHz (resistor-programmable) - allows optimization between EMI, efficiency, and component size (e.g., 0.47μH inductor at 1MHz). |
| Output Accuracy | ±1% over load, line, and temperature - eliminates need for precision external resistors in feedback networks. |
| RDS(ON) | 31mΩ (high-side), 24mΩ (low-side) - ensures >90% peak efficiency at 4A and simplifies thermal layout vs discrete solutions. |
| Package | 4mm × 4mm, 24-pin thin QFN with exposed pad - provides low thermal resistance (θJA = 36°C/W) for high-power density PCBs. |
Pinout & Package
MAX15038ETG+ is housed in a lead-free, RoHS-compliant 4mm × 4mm, 24-pin thin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP) soldered to PGND plane. Pin 1 is marked by dot; pins 14–16 (LX), 17–20 (PGND), and 21–23 (IN) are internally bonded for low-inductance power routing.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 MODE | Functional mode selection | Configures startup behavior (monotonic/prebiased) and PWM/skip mode; logic thresholds at 26%/50%/74% of VDD. |
| 2 VDD | 3.3V LDO output | Supplies internal analog core; requires ≥2.2μF ceramic bypass to GND for stable bias under dynamic load. |
| 3,4 CTL1/CTL2 | Preset output voltage select | Three-state inputs (VDD/unconnected/GND) set one of nine factory-trimmed outputs (0.6V–2.5V) without external resistors. |
| 5 REFIN | External reference input | Overrides internal 0.6V reference; FB regulates to applied voltage (e.g., DDR VTT tracking); pulled low during shutdown. |
| 6 SS | Soft-start timing | 8μA current source charges external capacitor; sets controlled ramp time to limit input inrush current during startup. |
| 7 GND | Analog ground | Must be star-connected with PGND near input capacitor return to minimize noise coupling into error amplifier. |
| 8 COMP | Error amplifier output | Connects to FB/OUT via type III compensation network; clamped at 0.7V/2V to limit excursion during transients. |
| 9 FB | Feedback input | Senses output via resistor divider or VID network; ±125nA bias current enables high-value dividers without accuracy loss. |
| 10 OUT | Output sense | Direct connection to converter output for remote sensing; left unconnected when using external divider. |
| 11 FREQ | Frequency set | Resistor to GND programs switching frequency (e.g., 49.9kΩ = 1MHz); tolerance directly impacts fS accuracy. |
| 12 PWRGD | Power-good flag | Open-drain output asserts high after VFB reaches 92.5% VREFIN for 48 clocks; pulled low during fault/shutdown. |
| 13 BST | Bootstrap supply | Charged from IN via internal pMOS; requires 0.1μF ceramic capacitor to LX for high-side gate drive integrity. |
| 14–16 LX | Switch node | Internally shorted pins connect to inductor switch node; handles full AC ripple current and must be routed with minimal loop area. |
| 17–20 PGND | Power ground | Low-impedance return for high-current paths (LX, IN); must connect to large copper plane under EP for thermal performance. |
| 21–23 IN | Main input supply | Accepts 2.9V–5.5V; requires 22μF ceramic capacitor to PGND placed adjacent to pins to suppress high-frequency noise. |
| 24 EN | Enable control | Active-high logic input; <0.9V disables regulator (10μA shutdown current), >1.5V enables with soft-start sequence. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated MOSFETs | 31mΩ high-side + 24mΩ low-side nMOS - eliminates external FETs, reduces BOM count, and minimizes layout sensitivity. |
| Nine preset VID outputs | 0.6V, 0.7V, 0.8V, 1.0V, 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.0V, 2.5V - achieves ±1% accuracy without 0.1% resistors, reducing cost and calibration effort. |
| Monotonic startup | Safe start into prebiased outputs (e.g., DDR VTT) via MODE pin - prevents reverse current flow and system latch-up. |
| Programmable soft-start | Capacitor-controlled ramp (tSS = CSS × 0.6V / 8μA) - limits input inrush and avoids brownout during cold boot. |
| Hiccup-mode OCP | Auto-retry after 896 clock cycles following 12μs VFB <70% VREFIN - protects against sustained shorts while enabling self-recovery. |
| Voltage-mode control | 28MHz error amplifier + type III compensation - enables >200kHz loop bandwidth for <100mV undershoot under 4A step load. |
Applications
| Server Core Rail | ASIC I/O Supply |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Powering 0.8V/3A CPU core in 1U rack server with tight thermal constraints and strict ripple requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary synchronous buck regulator delivering regulated core voltage with fast transient response to handle burst workloads. Use Value: 4A capability and ±1% accuracy eliminate post-regulation trimming; 2MHz operation enables 0.22μH inductor, reducing board area by 35% vs 500kHz design. |
Use Scenario: Generating 1.8V/2.5A I/O supply for FPGA in telecom base station with hot-swap capability and prebiased startup. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-load regulator with monotonic startup ensuring safe power sequencing into powered-backplane environments. Use Value: MODE pin configuration enables reliable start into 1.8V prebiased rail; nine VID options simplify firmware-driven voltage scaling across multiple FPGA banks. |
| DDR Memory Termination | RAID Controller Power |
|
Use Scenario: Providing 0.75V VTT termination for DDR4 memory subsystem requiring tight tracking and low-noise operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tracking buck regulator using REFIN input tied to DDR reference voltage for precise VTT regulation. Use Value: REFIN input accepts external reference (e.g., DDR VREF) and maintains 0.75V ±1% tracking across temperature, eliminating separate DAC circuitry. |
Use Scenario: Delivering 1.2V/3A power to RAID controller SoC in enterprise storage enclosure with continuous 24/7 operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability POL regulator with thermal shutdown (165°C) and hiccup-mode OCP for long-term field robustness. Use Value: Exposed-pad QFN package and 36°C/W θJA enable operation at full 4A load without forced air; 100% production-tested over -40°C to +85°C. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS544B20RTWR | 4A, 4.5–18V input, 0.6–5.5V output; 500kHz–2MHz programmable frequency; 3.5mΩ/1.8mΩ RDS(ON); requires external compensation. | Better suited for higher-input industrial rails (≥12V); lacks VID pin programming and monotonic startup into prebiased outputs. | Select when input exceeds 5.5V or ultra-low RDS(ON) is required; avoid if VID-based firmware control or DDR VTT tracking is needed. |
| ISL8204MIRZ | 4A, 2.7–5.5V input, 0.6–5.5V output; fixed 600kHz/1.2MHz options; 22mΩ/15mΩ RDS(ON); no VID pins or REFIN input. | Optimized for simplicity and footprint; missing nine-preset voltage selection and external reference capability. | Choose for cost-sensitive, fixed-output designs where VID flexibility and tracking are unnecessary; verify thermal margin at 4A in 4mm × 4mm footprint. |
Compared with TPS544B20RTWR and ISL8204MIRZ, the MAX15038ETG+ uniquely combines VID-programmable outputs, REFIN-based tracking, and monotonic prebiased startup in a 2.9–5.5V input range - making it the only option among the three qualified for DDR VTT and firmware-configurable multi-rail systems.
Availability
MAX15038ETG+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power supplies, ASIC/CPU core rails, and DDR memory termination requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX15038ETG+ 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and computing applications.
The MAX15038ETG+ belongs to Maxim's high-density POL regulator product line, designed specifically for space-constrained, high-current point-of-load applications in servers, networking equipment, and storage systems where efficiency, accuracy, and reliability are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current of the MAX15038ETG+?
The MAX15038ETG+ delivers up to 4A continuous output current over the full operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C), verified under thermal conditions with proper PCB layout and 4mm × 4mm QFN exposed-pad grounding. This rating assumes adequate copper area for heat dissipation and use of recommended external components per the datasheet.
How does the MAX15038ETG+ achieve ±1% output voltage accuracy without precision resistors?
The MAX15038ETG+ achieves ±1% output voltage accuracy through factory-trimmed internal reference and nine preset VID outputs selectable via CTL1/CTL2 pins. When these pins are configured (e.g., both grounded), the IC uses an internal 0.6V reference and calibrated feedback path - eliminating dependency on external resistor tolerance and drift.
Can the MAX15038ETG+ safely start up into a prebiased output voltage?
Yes, the MAX15038ETG+ supports monotonic startup into prebiased outputs when the MODE pin is configured to VDD or VDD/2. This feature prevents reverse current flow and ensures controlled ramp-up even when the output rail is already biased - essential for DDR VTT and hot-swap applications.
What package type and thermal characteristics does the MAX15038ETG+ use?
The MAX15038ETG+ uses a 4mm × 4mm, 24-pin thin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP). Its thermal resistance is θJA = 36°C/W and θJC = 6°C/W when mounted on a standard four-layer board with proper EP-to-PGND soldering - enabling full 4A operation without forced airflow.
Does the MAX15038ETG+ support external voltage reference tracking for DDR applications?
Yes, the MAX15038ETG+ supports external reference tracking via the REFIN pin. When an external voltage (e.g., DDR VREF) is applied to REFIN, the FB pin regulates to that voltage - enabling precise VTT termination matching without additional op-amps or DACs, and maintaining ±1% accuracy across temperature.
MAX15038ETG+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable (Programmable)
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.9V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.6V (0.6V ~ 2.5V)
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 4.95V
- Current - Output:
- 4A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 500kHz ~ 2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-TQFN (4x4)
MAX15038ETG+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX15038ETG+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX15038ETG+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX15038ETG+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX15038ETG+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX15038ETG+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX15038ETG+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX15038ETG+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX15038ETG+?
MAX15038ETG+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX15038ETG+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX15038ETG+?
For technical support, including MAX15038ETG+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX15038ETG+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX15038ETG+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX15038ETG+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX15038ETG+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX15038ETG+?
All MAX15038ETG+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX15038ETG+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX15038ETG+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX15038ETG+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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