Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1563ETC

Overview

The MAX1563ETC from Maxim Integrated is a programmable 4A USB current-limited high-side power switch with autoreset, fault blanking, and selectable active-high/active-low enable logic. It operates from 4V to 5.5V input, delivers up to 4A continuous load current, features 50mΩ typical on-resistance, and supports hot-swap USB port power-up in notebook computers and docking stations.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1563ETC datasheet, MAX1563ETC pinout, MAX1563ETC application, or MAX1563ETC equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4mm × 4mm Thin QFN package, 20ms fault-blanking timeout, programmable 1A–4A current limit via ISET resistor, thermal shutdown at +160°C, and open-drain FAULT output for host microprocessor notification.

Technical Context

The MAX1563ETC integrates a low-R_ON NMOS high-side switch driven by an internal micropower charge pump, enabling operation from a single 4V–5.5V rail without external gate-drive supplies. Its dual-mode current limiting distinguishes between continuous overload (V_OUT > 1V) and short-circuit (V_OUT < 1V) conditions, applying regulated current or pulsed current respectively.

It implements three independent protection mechanisms: 20ms fault-blanking to suppress transient overloads during capacitive load startup, autoreset latching that sources 25mA to detect short removal, and immediate thermal shutdown at +160°C with 15°C hysteresis. The SEL pin configures ON polarity, and FAULT asserts low on UVLO, thermal fault, or sustained current-limit events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX1563ETC is housed in a 12-pin 4mm × 4mm Thin QFN package with exposed pad (EP), optimized for thermal dissipation in space-constrained USB applications. The EP must be soldered to a large ground plane using multiple vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar USB current-limited switch applications.

Compared with MAX1562ESA+, the MAX1563ETC delivers 33% higher current capacity and flexible enable logic in a thermally superior 4mm × 4mm package; compared with TUSB246IRHBR, it offers simpler integration for legacy USB-A ports without Type-C protocol overhead.

Availability

The MAX1563ETC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, USB hubs, and docking stations requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and guaranteed -40°C to +85°C operation.

Supply support for MAX1563ETC 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 computing, communications, and industrial markets.

The MAX1563ETC belongs to Maxim's USB power-switch product line, designed specifically to replace discrete MOSFET + driver solutions in USB-compliant hot-swap applications with integrated protection, programmability, and compact packaging.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the MAX1563ETC?

The MAX1563ETC supports a programmable continuous output current from 1A to 4A, set by an external resistor on the ISET pin using the formula ILIM = 17120 / R_ISET. At the minimum R_ISET of 4.22kΩ, the MAX1563ETC achieves its rated 4A limit, validated across the full -40°C to +85°C operating range.

How does the MAX1563ETC handle short-circuit conditions on the output?

When the MAX1563ETC detects V_OUT < 1V, it enters short-circuit current-limit mode, pulsing output current at ~1.3× the programmed ILIM. If the condition persists beyond 18–35ms, FAULT asserts low and the device latches off. It then sources 25mA to monitor V_OUT; once V_OUT exceeds 0.5V for 20ms, the MAX1563ETC automatically resets and resumes normal operation.

Can the enable logic polarity of the MAX1563ETC be changed after PCB assembly?

Yes - the MAX1563ETC's ON pin polarity is fully configurable via the SEL pin. Driving SEL high selects active-high ON logic; driving SEL low selects active-low ON logic. This allows a single MAX1563ETC design to interface with either 3.3V or 5V GPIOs without hardware modification, unlike the fixed-polarity MAX1562ESA+ or MAX1562HESA+.

What is the purpose of the FAULT pin on the MAX1563ETC, and how should it be interfaced?

The FAULT pin on the MAX1563ETC is an open-drain output that asserts low during UVLO, thermal shutdown, or sustained current-limit faults (>20ms). It must be pulled up to VIN via a 100kΩ resistor. The host microprocessor monitors this signal to initiate corrective action - such as disabling the port or logging the fault - without requiring additional sensing circuitry.

Does the MAX1563ETC require external components for basic operation, and which ones are mandatory?

Yes - the MAX1563ETC requires three mandatory external components: a 1µF ceramic capacitor from IN to GND, a 4.7µF ceramic capacitor from OUT to GND, and a resistor from ISET to GND to set the current limit. Optional components include a 100kΩ pullup on FAULT and additional bulk capacitance on OUT for dynamic loads exceeding 470µF.