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

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,454
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Product details
Overview
The MAX15038ETG+T 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 at adjustable voltages from 0.6V to 90% of VIN (2.9V–5.5V input). It features 500kHz–2MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, ±1% output voltage accuracy over load/line/temperature, and a 28MHz error amplifier for fast transient response in server POL, ASIC core, and DDR power applications.
For engineers reviewing the MAX15038ETG+T datasheet, MAX15038ETG+T pinout, MAX15038ETG+T application, or MAX15038ETG+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 24-pin 4mm×4mm thin QFN package with exposed pad, nine-pin-programmable output voltages (0.6V–2.5V), soft-start programmability via external capacitor, forced-PWM/skip-mode operation, and open-drain PWRGD signaling.
Technical Context
The MAX15038ETG+T 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 rapid load transients. Its internal 31mΩ/24mΩ MOSFET pair minimizes conduction loss and simplifies PCB layout versus discrete solutions.
It supports monotonic startup into prebiased outputs via MODE pin selection (GND/VDD/VDD/2), hiccup-mode overcurrent protection with 112-cycle blanking and 896-cycle autoretry, and thermal shutdown at +165°C with 25°C hysteresis. The REFIN input enables tracking and DDR compliance by allowing external reference injection.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.9V to 5.5V - supports single 3.3V or dual 3.3V/5V rail systems without level-shifting. |
| Output Current | Continuous 4A - sufficient for high-current ASIC/CPU I/O and DDR memory rails. |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.6V to 0.9 × VIN - enables precise low-voltage core regulation (e.g., 0.6V–1.8V) while maintaining headroom. |
| Switching Frequency | 500kHz to 2MHz - allows all-ceramic capacitor designs and reduces inductor size (e.g., 0.47μH typical). |
| Output Accuracy | ±1% over load, line, and temperature - eliminates need for precision external resistors in feedback networks. |
| RDS(ON) | 31mΩ (HS) / 24mΩ (LS) - ensures >90% efficiency at 4A, 1.8VOUT/5VIN per typical curves. |
| Error Amplifier BW | 28MHz - enables high loop bandwidth for <100μs load-step recovery with minimal output capacitance. |
| Package | 24-pin 4mm × 4mm thin QFN with exposed pad - optimized for thermal dissipation in dense server/power modules. |
Pinout & Package
MAX15038ETG+T is housed in a lead-free, RoHS-compliant 24-pin thin QFN package (4mm × 4mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad (EP) soldered to PGND plane for optimal thermal performance.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| MODE | Functional mode selection | Selects startup behavior: GND = standard PWM, VDD = monotonic into prebiased, VDD/2 = skip-mode monotonic. |
| VDD | Internal 3.3V LDO output | Powers analog core; requires ≥2.2μF ceramic bypass to GND near pin. |
| CTL1 / CTL2 | Output voltage programming inputs | Three-state logic (GND/VDD/open) selects one of nine preset outputs (0.6V–2.5V) or enables adjustable mode. |
| REFIN | External reference input | Overrides internal 0.6V reference; enables tracking supplies and DDR compliance when driven externally. |
| SS | Soft-start timing input | 8μA current source charges external capacitor; sets ramp time to limit inrush (e.g., 100nF ≈ 7.5ms). |
| FREQ | Frequency set resistor node | Connects to GND via precision resistor (e.g., 49.9kΩ → 1MHz); tolerance directly impacts fS accuracy. |
| FB | Feedback voltage sense | Regulates output to 0.6V (or REFIN) via external divider; bias current ≤±125nA minimizes divider error. |
| OUT | Output voltage sense point | Direct connection to output rail when using internal reference; left floating when external divider is used. |
| LX (Pins 14–16) | Switch node | Internally shorted; connects to inductor switch node; requires 0.1μF BST-to-LX ceramic capacitor. |
| PGND (Pins 17–20) | Power ground return | Low-impedance path for high di/dt currents; must be tied to IN bypass capacitor ground at single point. |
| IN (Pins 21–23) | Main input supply | 2.9V–5.5V input; requires 22μF ceramic bypass to PGND close to pins. |
| EN | Enable control | Logic-high (>1.5V) enables regulator; logic-low (<0.9V) shuts down IC with <20μA quiescent current. |
| PWRGD | Open-drain power-good flag | Signals valid regulation when VFB > 92.5% VREFIN and VREFIN > 0.54V for ≥48 clock cycles. |
| BST | Bootstrap supply | Charged from IN during low-side conduction; powers high-side gate driver; bypass to LX with 0.1μF. |
| GND (Pin 7) | Analog ground reference | Separate from PGND; tie to PGND at single point near input capacitor to avoid noise coupling. |
| COMP | Error amplifier output | Drives external type III compensation network between COMP–FB–OUT; clamped at 0.7V/2V for stability. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Nine preset output voltages | 0.6V, 0.7V, 0.8V, 1.0V, 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.0V, 2.5V - eliminates trimming resistors and reduces BOM count. |
| Monotonic startup into prebiased outputs | Prevents reverse current flow and system latch-up when powering into existing rail voltage (e.g., hot-swap scenarios). |
| Selectable forced-PWM or skip mode | Forced-PWM maintains constant frequency under light loads for EMI predictability; skip mode improves light-load efficiency. |
| Hiccup-mode overcurrent protection | Auto-retries after fault clearance (896-cycle off-time), preventing thermal runaway during sustained short circuits. |
| Open-drain PWRGD with glitch immunity | 48-clock-cycle deglitching prevents false asserts during transients; compatible with FPGA/CPU reset sequencing logic. |
| Adjustable soft-start via external capacitor | Enables precise control of inrush current (e.g., 1nF–100nF) without firmware or external timers. |
Applications
| Server Point-of-Load (POL) | ASIC/CPU Core Voltage Regulation |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Distributed 1.2V/1.8V/2.5V rails on high-density server motherboards with tight thermal constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary synchronous buck regulator delivering stable, low-noise core voltage with fast transient response to CPU load steps. Use Value: 28MHz error amplifier and 2MHz max switching frequency reduce output capacitance by >40% vs. 500kHz alternatives, saving board space. | Use Scenario: Powering multi-core processors requiring strict ±1% voltage tolerance and monotonic startup into precharged rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core voltage regulator with MODE-selectable monotonic startup and hiccup-mode protection against dynamic current faults. Use Value: Internal 31mΩ/24mΩ MOSFETs achieve >92% efficiency at 4A/1.2V, reducing thermal load in fanless edge compute modules. |
| DDR Memory Power Supply | Telecom Baseband Power |
Use Scenario: DDR4/DDR5 VDDQ and VPP rails requiring tracking, fast load transient response, and ±1% accuracy. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tracking regulator using REFIN input to follow master voltage rail; supports DDR-specific soft-start and power-good sequencing. Use Value: REFIN input enables direct connection to master reference, eliminating mismatch-induced tracking error in dual-rail DDR systems. | Use Scenario: Compact baseband processor power in 5G small cells where board area and thermal management are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-frequency (1.8MHz) POL regulator minimizing inductor footprint while maintaining 4A capability for burst-mode processing. Use Value: 4mm × 4mm QFN package with exposed pad achieves θJA = 36°C/W, enabling 4A operation at +70°C ambient without heatsinks. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS544B20RJER | 4A, 2.2MHz, 2.95V–16V input; uses D-CAP2 control; no VID pins; 0.6V reference only. | Wider input range suits 12V intermediate bus; lacks nine-preset VID and REFIN tracking capability. | Choose for higher-input systems where VID flexibility and DDR tracking are not required. |
| ISL85415IRZ-T7A | 4A, 2MHz, 3.5V–36V input; current-mode control; 0.6V reference; no VID pins or REFIN. | Higher VIN range targets industrial 24V bus; lacks monotonic startup and hiccup-mode protection. | Choose for ruggedized 24V applications where prebias startup and fault retry are secondary. |
Compared with TPS544B20RJER and ISL85415IRZ-T7A, the MAX15038ETG+T uniquely combines nine-pin-programmable outputs, REFIN-based tracking, monotonic startup, and hiccup-mode protection in a 4mm×4mm package-making it optimal for space-constrained, multi-rail telecom and server POL designs requiring tight coordination and reliability.
Availability
MAX15038ETG+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power supplies, ASIC/CPU core voltage regulation, and DDR memory power applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX15038ETG+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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and computing applications.
The MAX15038ETG+T belongs to Maxim's high-frequency synchronous buck regulator product line, designed specifically for compact, high-efficiency point-of-load conversion in servers, networking equipment, and high-speed digital systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current capability of the MAX15038ETG+T across its full operating temperature range?
The MAX15038ETG+T delivers continuous 4A output current over the full -40°C to +85°C junction temperature range, verified under worst-case conditions including 5.5V input and 1.2V output. This rating accounts for internal MOSFET RDS(ON) drift and thermal derating, ensuring reliable operation in thermally constrained server and telecom modules without external current sensing.
How does the MAX15038ETG+T achieve ±1% output voltage accuracy without precision external resistors?
The MAX15038ETG+T achieves ±1% output voltage accuracy through its internal 0.6V reference (±0.5% initial tolerance, ±15ppm/°C drift) and low FB input bias current (±125nA), which minimizes divider error. When using CTL1/CTL2 for preset voltages, the IC internally scales the reference-eliminating dependency on external resistor tolerance. For adjustable outputs, the 0.6V reference and tight FB threshold (0.594V–0.606V) enable use of standard 1% resistors.
Can the MAX15038ETG+T safely start up into a prebiased output voltage, and how is this configured?
Yes, the MAX15038ETG+T supports monotonic startup into prebiased outputs via the MODE pin. Setting MODE = VDD enables forced-PWM monotonic startup; MODE = VDD/2 enables skip-mode monotonic startup. Both configurations prevent reverse current flow by controlling high-side gate drive timing during startup, as confirmed in Figures toc18–toc23 of the datasheet. This is essential for hot-swap and redundant power systems.
What is the purpose of the REFIN pin on the MAX15038ETG+T, and how does it affect regulation?
REFIN on the MAX15038ETG+T serves as an external reference input that overrides the internal 0.6V bandgap. When a voltage is applied to REFIN, the FB pin regulates to that exact voltage (e.g., 1.0V applied to REFIN yields 1.0V output). This enables tracking supplies (e.g., DDR VDDQ following VDD), custom references, and compatibility with systems requiring non-standard regulation points-all without modifying feedback dividers.
Does the MAX15038ETG+T support both ceramic and electrolytic output capacitors, and what are the stability implications?
Yes, the MAX15038ETG+T is explicitly compatible with ceramic, polymer, and electrolytic output capacitors, as stated in its Features list. Its voltage-mode architecture and 28MHz error amplifier allow stable operation with low-ESR ceramics (typical in high-frequency designs) as well as higher-ESR electrolytics (used for cost-sensitive or high-capacitance bulk filtering). Compensation network design must match capacitor ESR/ESL characteristics per the type III guidelines in the datasheet.
MAX15038ETG+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX15038ETG+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX15038ETG+T 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+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX15038ETG+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX15038ETG+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX15038ETG+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX15038ETG+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX15038ETG+T?
MAX15038ETG+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX15038ETG+T 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+T?
For technical support, including MAX15038ETG+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX15038ETG+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX15038ETG+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX15038ETG+T 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+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX15038ETG+T?
All MAX15038ETG+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX15038ETG+T, 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+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX15038ETG+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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