Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16602GGN+T

Overview

The MAX16602GGN+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual-output, multiphase synchronous buck controller IC designed for AI cores and Intel® VR13.HC server CPUs. It implements an 8+1-phase VCORE regulator and a single-phase VSA rail using smart power-stage ICs, delivers peak efficiency of 95.6% at 1.8VOUT, supports PMBus™ telemetry, and features autonomous phase-shedding for high efficiency across full load range.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16602GGN+T datasheet, MAX16602GGN+T pinout, MAX16602GGN+T application, or MAX16602GGN+T equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-rail output architecture (VCORE + VSA), programmable load-line accuracy (±0.5% DC set-point tolerance), integrated 3.3V-to-1.8V bias regulator, orthogonal current rebalance during transients, and critical fault retention for exothermic event prevention.

Technical Context

The MAX16602GGN+T employs a digital PWM controller with SVID interface for VCORE and dedicated analog/digital control for VSA, enabling independent regulation of two rails with distinct switching frequencies (CORE: 300–857 kHz; VSA: 599–880 kHz). Its architecture integrates a 10-bit system ADC, input power monitoring, and per-phase temperature sensing via TSENSE_<3:0> inputs.

It supports up to 16-phase PWM paralleling, uses coupled inductors for enhanced transient response, and implements autonomous phase-shedding with APS transition logic verified down to 1-phase DCM operation. Protection includes programmable overcurrent thresholds (per-phase IPOCP_CORE_PH up to 115.18A), fixed-umbrella OVP (2.41–2.59V), and VIN_UVLO with configurable 9.6–10.6V threshold.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX16602GGN+T is housed in a 56-pin, 7mm × 7mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad (package code G5677+2), optimized for high-power density server and AI applications requiring low θJC (2.6°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multiphase buck controller applications.

Compared with ISL91302BHRZ-T7A and MP2960GQ-Z, the MAX16602GGN+T uniquely delivers VR13.HC-compliant SVID, dual-rail PMBus telemetry, and autonomous APS - making it the only option for scalable AI-core and high-end server CPU power delivery requiring full diagnostic visibility and thermal safety.

Availability

The MAX16602GGN+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for AI accelerator modules, VR13.HC server motherboards, and high-performance networking equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX16602GGN+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 MAX16602GGN+T belongs to Maxim's high-density VR controller product line, engineered specifically for next-generation AI accelerators and Intel VR13.HC server CPUs requiring dual-rail regulation, advanced telemetry, and autonomous efficiency optimization.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX16602GGN+T in a server power system?

The MAX16602GGN+T serves as a dual-output multiphase buck controller that regulates both the high-current VCORE rail (8+1 phases) and the auxiliary VSA rail (1 phase) for AI cores and Intel VR13.HC CPUs. It integrates SVID interface, PMBus telemetry, autonomous phase-shedding, and critical fault retention - enabling precise, efficient, and safe power delivery in high-density server environments where the MAX16602GGN+T is deployed as the central voltage regulation unit.

Does the MAX16602GGN+T include an integrated bias regulator, and what are its specifications?

Yes, the MAX16602GGN+T includes an integrated 3.3V-to-1.8V switching regulator with 1.8V ±2.5% output accuracy, 500mA maximum output current, and four selectable on-time settings (0.70µs to 2.26µs). This regulator powers the MAX16602GGN+T's DVDD1P8 domain and compatible smart power stages, eliminating the need for an external 1.8V bias supply in most implementations.

How does the MAX16602GGN+T support thermal safety in high-power AI applications?

The MAX16602GGN+T supports thermal safety through multiple mechanisms: (1) TSENSE_<3:0> and TSENSE_VSA inputs monitor junction temperature of up to eight VCORE and one VSA power stages; (2) VR_HOT/OCP_FLAG pin asserts on thermal violation or OCP clamp engagement; (3) critical fault retention latches FAULT after power-device failure to prevent exothermic events - all verified features explicitly documented for the MAX16602GGN+T in its electrical characteristics and pin description sections.

Can the MAX16602GGN+T be configured for different processor standards, and how?

Yes, the MAX16602GGN+T supports multiple application scenarios via hardware configuration: PROG and ADDR pins accept 1% resistors to select VR13.HC, AI core, or other modes - setting SVID address, PMBus MSB/LSB, and internal parameters like load-line slope and OVP thresholds. These settings are stored in MTP-programmable NVM, allowing field updates without changing PCB layout - a capability confirmed for the MAX16602GGN+T in its configuration tables and feature descriptions.

What protection features are implemented in the MAX16602GGN+T, and how are they activated?

The MAX16602GGN+T implements input UVLO (VIN_UVLO: 9.6–10.6V), output OVP (2.41–2.59V fixed umbrella), per-phase OCP (programmable 27.58–115.18A), and SNS_PS_BIAS undervoltage detection (1.52–1.58V). All protections are hardware-enforced with defined propagation delays (e.g., 2µs for TSENSE-to-FAULT) and can be monitored or reconfigured via PMBus commands - each parameter and timing spec explicitly validated for the MAX16602GGN+T in its absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics tables.