Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16550GPN+T
- Part No.:
- MAX16550GPN+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Specialized
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX16550GPN+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC INTERFACE SPECIALIZED 30A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,061
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
The MAX16550GPN+T from Maxim Integrated is a monolithic 12V power-distribution protection IC integrating a 1.9mΩ N-channel MOSFET, lossless current sensing, PMBus/SMBus telemetry, and programmable overcurrent/overvoltage/undervoltage/overtemperature protection. It delivers up to 30A continuous load current with <250ns safe OCP response and supports hot-swap, circuit-breaker, and e-fuse applications in server 12V rails.
For engineers reviewing the MAX16550GPN+T datasheet, MAX16550GPN+T pinout, MAX16550GPN+T application, or MAX16550GPN+T equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated 18-pin FCQFN package mapping, confirmed 30A/12V operational envelope, real-world soft-start and fault-isolation timing, and two production-validated alternative parts for system-level power-rail protection design.
Technical Context
The MAX16550GPN+T implements a fully integrated power-path architecture: an internal 1.9mΩ RDS(ON) MOSFET handles 12V distribution while a lossless current-sense circuit feeds analog (ILOAD pin) and digital (PMBus READ_IOUT) reporting with ±1.8% accuracy at 30A. Its PMBus interface enables dynamic configuration of OCP thresholds (moderate/severe/safe), UVLO/OVP levels, PWRGD trip points, and thermal limits.
Protection logic operates across three independent OCP tiers: programmable moderate OCP (15–35A), digitally adjustable severe OCP (130–170% of moderate), and fail-safe safe OCP (60A, <250ns turn-off). Startup includes VIN self-check, VBST charge validation, CSS discharge verification, and ROCP resistor integrity monitoring-all executed before gate drive activation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Continuous Current Rating | 30A - Sustained load current capability without derating under 0°C to +125°C junction temperature |
| MOSFET RDS(ON) | 1.9mΩ - Total on-resistance including package parasitics; enables <0.7W conduction loss at 30A |
| Safe OCP Response Time | <250ns - Hardware-latched turn-off for catastrophic overcurrent; no software dependency |
| Current Reporting Accuracy | ±1.8% at 30A - Analog ILOAD output and digital PMBus READ_IOUT both meet this spec |
| PMBus Compliance | Full SMBus v2.0 / PMBus v1.2 support - Enables READ_VIN, READ_VOUT, READ_IOUT, READ_PIN, READ_TEMPERATURE_1 commands |
| Package Thermal Resistance | θJC = 0.31°C/W - Enables high-power dissipation with minimal case-to-junction temperature rise |
| Operating Input Voltage | 10.8V to 13.2V - Validated 12V ±10% rail operation; absolute max 16V DC |
Pinout & Package
MAX16550GPN+T uses an 18-pin 4mm × 4.5mm FCQFN package (package code P184A4F+1, outline 21-1080) with exposed thermal pad. Pin 1 is SMBUS_CLK; pins 5–6 and 7–8 are dual-source/dual-drain power terminals; pin 9 is GND; pin 18 is VDD.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (SMBUS_CLK) | SMBus clock input | Drives bidirectional clock line; 2.1V min VIH, 0.8V max VIL, 5.5V max VOH |
| 2 (ILOAD) | Analog current monitor output | 5µA/A linear transconductance; 0–30A maps to 0–1.35V with 8.64kΩ load |
| 3 (SS) | Soft-start timing control | Charged by 20–39µA current source; 0–75nF capacitor sets monotonic ramp time |
| 4 (VBST) | Bootstrap gate-drive supply | Charges to VOUT + 1.8V; powers high-side FET driver; requires 220nF bypass only |
| 5–6 (VOUT) | Load-side 12V output power | Dual pins reduce IR drop and thermal stress; connected directly to load capacitance |
| 7–8 (VIN) | Supply-side 12V input power | Dual pins minimize path resistance; accepts 10.8–13.2V nominal input |
| 9 (GND) | Power and signal reference | Must connect to PCB ground plane via multiple vias; shared return for all analog/digital paths |
| 10 (EN/UVLO) | Enable and input UVLO sense | Resistor-divider input; 0.95–1.05V threshold; 2µs response to fault-induced disable |
| 11 (SMBUS_ALERT) | Open-drain SMBus alert | Active-low interrupt signaling; 0.4V max VOL at 4mA sink; 5.5V max pullup |
| 12 (FAULT) | Bidirectional fault status | Latched low on OCP/OVP/OTP/short detection; requires EN/UVLO or VIN toggle to clear |
| 13 (PWRGD) | Power-good status output | Asserts low if VOUT < 11V (default) or VIN < 8V (programmable); 3.2µs propagation delay |
| 14 (ROCP) | Moderate OCP threshold programming | 28–360kΩ resistor sets 15–35A analog OCP level; validated at power-up |
| 15 (SMBUS_DATA) | SMBus data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional; 0.4V max VOL at 4mA; 5.5V max external pullup |
| 16 (SMBUS_ID) | PMBus address and hysteresis flag | Resistor-programmed SMBus address; also reports current-sense hysteresis status |
| 17 (N.C.) | No-connect terminal | Internally unconnected; must tie to GND via 10kΩ resistor per layout guidelines |
| 18 (VDD) | Internal 1.8V LDO output | Supplies IC bias; requires ≥1µF ceramic capacitor to GND; no external loading permitted |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Monolithic 12V protection with integrated MOSFET | Eliminates discrete FET, driver, current-sense resistor, and controller-reducing BOM count by ≥7 components |
| Lossless current sensing | Enables ±1.8% full-scale accuracy from 0–30A without shunt resistor power loss or board area penalty |
| Three-tier OCP architecture | Programmable moderate (15–35A), severe (130–170% moderate), and fail-safe safe (60A) thresholds enable granular fault grading |
| Hardware-fast fault isolation | Safe OCP turns off FET in <250ns; severe OCP in <5µs-prevents MOSFET destruction during short-circuit events |
| PMBus-configurable protection thresholds | Allows runtime adjustment of UVLO, OVP, PWRGD, and thermal limits without hardware change |
| Startup self-check sequence | Verifies VBST charge, VOUT discharge, SS capacitor discharge, and ROCP resistor value before enabling gate drive |
Applications
| Server 12V Distribution | Networking Equipment Power Rail |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Protecting CPU/GPU VRM input rails in dual-socket servers against overcurrent, input undervoltage, and hot-swap transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as intelligent circuit breaker with PMBus telemetry; monitors IOUT, VIN, VOUT, and die temperature in real time. Use Value: Enables predictive maintenance via READ_IOUT/READ_PIN trends and eliminates need for external current-sense amplifiers. | Use Scenario: Securing 12V backplane power in 10G/25G Ethernet switches during live insertion of line cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides controlled soft-start, VIN short detection during startup, and <250ns safe OCP for hot-swap compliance. Use Value: Prevents bus collapse during card insertion; reduces inrush current to <8A default startup OCP limit. |
| Storage System Power Management | AC/DC Power Supply Monitoring |
Use Scenario: Isolating individual NVMe SSD power domains in enterprise storage enclosures with per-slot current limiting. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Functions as e-fuse with programmable moderate OCP (15–35A) and latched FAULT reporting to host controller. Use Value: Enables selective shutdown of failed drives without affecting adjacent slots; supports READ_IOUT for capacity planning. | Use Scenario: Adding smart protection and telemetry to legacy 12V AC/DC supplies used in industrial controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sits between AC/DC output and downstream loads; reports VIN, VOUT, IOUT, and temperature via PMBus to supervisory MCU. Use Value: Converts dumb power supply into intelligent node with energy (READ_EIN) and power (READ_PIN) logging capabilities. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12V power-rail protection applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX16551GPN+T | Same pinout and feature set but with fixed 12V UVLO (no EN/UVLO pin); lacks programmable startup OCP | Targeted at simpler systems where enable control and startup OCP tuning are unnecessary | Select MAX16551GPN+T only when EN/UVLO functionality and startup OCP programmability are not required |
| TPL92012RGER | Lower current rating (12A), no PMBus interface, analog-only reporting, no safe OCP tier (<250ns) | Suitable for cost-sensitive, non-telemetry applications requiring basic e-fuse behavior without digital control | Choose TPL92012RGER for entry-level 12V protection where PMBus telemetry and sub-microsecond fault response are not needed |
Compared with MAX16551GPN+T, the MAX16550GPN+T adds EN/UVLO pin control and startup OCP programming-critical for sequenced power-up in multi-rail systems. Against TPL92012RGER, it delivers 2.5× higher current, full PMBus telemetry, and hardware-latched safe OCP for mission-critical infrastructure.
Availability
MAX16550GPN+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power distribution, networking equipment 12V rails, enterprise storage e-fuse modules, and AC/DC power supply telemetry upgrades requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for MAX16550GPN+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 MAX16550GPN+T belongs to Maxim's integrated power-protection product line, engineered specifically for high-density, high-reliability 12V bus protection in datacenter infrastructure with emphasis on lossless sensing, fast fault isolation, and PMBus configurability.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous current rating of the MAX16550GPN+T?
The MAX16550GPN+T supports 30A continuous load current across its full operating temperature range (0°C to +125°C junction). This rating is validated with the integrated 1.9mΩ MOSFET and accounts for thermal performance in standard PCB layouts with adequate copper area and airflow. Derating is not required below 125°C ambient under typical conditions.
Does the MAX16550GPN+T require an external current-sense resistor?
No, the MAX16550GPN+T does not require an external current-sense resistor. It implements Maxim's patented lossless current-sensing architecture that measures load current through the integrated MOSFET's intrinsic properties. The ILOAD pin provides analog current reporting (5µA/A), and PMBus command READ_IOUT delivers digital current telemetry-both without shunt resistor losses or board space.
How does the MAX16550GPN+T handle short-circuit events during startup?
The MAX16550GPN+T performs a VIN-to-VOUT short detection self-check before enabling the pass FET. If a short is present, it asserts FAULT and PWRGD low within microseconds and latches off the FET. Additionally, the startup OCP threshold (default 8A, programmable 4–16A) activates immediately upon gate drive initiation, providing hardware-enforced current limiting before full ramp completion.
Can the MAX16550GPN+T be used without PMBus communication?
Yes, the MAX16550GPN+T operates fully autonomously without PMBus. All protection functions-including moderate/severe/safe OCP, UVLO, OVP, and overtemperature-are active using factory-default or resistor-programmed settings. PMBus is optional for dynamic reconfiguration, telemetry readback, and advanced diagnostics; basic circuit-breaker functionality requires only EN/UVLO, ROCP, and power connections.
What is the purpose of the VBST pin on the MAX16550GPN+T?
The VBST pin on the MAX16550GPN+T supplies the bootstrap voltage for the internal high-side gate driver. It charges to VOUT + 1.8V via an internal charge pump and must be bypassed with a 220nF capacitor to VOUT. This dedicated supply enables robust turn-on of the integrated N-channel MOSFET without external boost components, ensuring reliable 12V power-path control across temperature and load conditions.
MAX16550GPN+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- *
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Applications:
- -
- Interface:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
MAX16550GPN+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX16550GPN+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX16550GPN+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 MAX16550GPN+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX16550GPN+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX16550GPN+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX16550GPN+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX16550GPN+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX16550GPN+T?
MAX16550GPN+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX16550GPN+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 MAX16550GPN+T?
For technical support, including MAX16550GPN+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX16550GPN+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX16550GPN+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX16550GPN+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 MAX16550GPN+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX16550GPN+T?
All MAX16550GPN+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX16550GPN+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 MAX16550GPN+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX16550GPN+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX16550GPN+T Tags

-
NVT4857UKAZ
NXP Semiconductors
-
TCA8418RTWR
Texas Instruments
-
PCA9546APWR
Texas Instruments

-
MD0100N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
PCA9548APW,118
NXP Semiconductors

-
PCA9540BDP,118
NXP Semiconductors

-
PCA9548APWR
Texas Instruments

-
PCA9546APW,118
NXP Semiconductors

-
PTN3360DBS,518
NXP Semiconductors

-
PCA9546ABS,118
NXP Semiconductors

-
PCA9518PWR
Texas Instruments

-
PCA9545APW,118
NXP Semiconductors
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

