Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16710AWA+T

Overview

MAX16710AWA+T from Analog Devices is a switched tank converter (STC) controller with integrated high- and low-side gate drivers for 10-FET 4:1 topology, supporting 40V–60V input to ~10V–15V unregulated intermediate bus generation with zero-current-switching (ZCS) operation. It features adaptive on-time tuning, Class II capacitor support, and latching input overcurrent protection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16710AWA+T datasheet, MAX16710AWA+T pinout, MAX16710AWA+T application, or MAX16710AWA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include ZCS enforcement across temperature/voltage drift, floating supply generation capability, STC fault flag signaling, and compatibility with 48V datacenter intermediate bus architectures.

Technical Context

The MAX16710AWA+T implements an adaptive on-time algorithm that dynamically adjusts switching timing to maintain zero-current-switching under component aging, temperature coefficient variation, and voltage derating-enabling robust use of cost-effective Class II resonant capacitors. It integrates drivers for all 10 FETs in the 4:1 STC, with only three referenced to ground and seven requiring floating supplies.

It provides dedicated fault signaling via CRIT_FAULT pin and POWER_GOOD output, supports latching input overcurrent protection, and includes bias-supply undervoltage lockout plus soar mitigation with output overvoltage protection-ensuring safe operation during transient faults and component failure events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16710AWA+T is housed in a 24-pin Wafer-Level Package (WLP), 4.0mm × 4.0mm, 0.4mm pitch, with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignment optimized for minimal loop area in 4:1 STC layout and integrated floating supply routing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar switched tank converter controller applications.

Compared with MAX16610AWA+T and LM5180QPWPRQ1, the MAX16710AWA+T offers optimized STC-specific adaptation for Class II capacitors and native 10-FET drive integration-reducing solution size by 44% and eliminating 12 external components versus the flyback alternative.

Availability

MAX16710AWA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for datacenter power delivery, AI accelerator card design, and 5G networking infrastructure requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX16710AWA+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

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and power management markets.

The MAX16710AWA+T belongs to the MAX16610 family of switched tank converter controllers, designed specifically for high-efficiency, high-density intermediate bus generation in 48V datacenter and AI hardware platforms.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX16710AWA+T in a power system?

The MAX16710AWA+T functions as a switched tank converter (STC) controller that manages the 10-FET switching sequence for 4:1 voltage conversion from 40V–60V input to an unregulated ~10V–15V intermediate bus. It enforces zero-current-switching via adaptive on-time tuning and integrates all necessary gate drivers and floating supply generation-making it central to compact, high-efficiency datacenter power architectures. The MAX16710AWA+T replaces discrete driver and control solutions in STC implementations.

Does the MAX16710AWA+T require external gate drivers for the STC FETs?

No, the MAX16710AWA+T integrates gate drivers for all 10 FETs in the 4:1 STC topology, including those requiring floating supplies. On-chip charge pumps generate the necessary isolated gate drive voltages, eliminating the need for external level-shifters, isolated DC/DC converters, or discrete driver ICs. This integration is confirmed in the MAX16610/MAX16610A datasheet Rev. 5 functional block diagram and pin description table for the MAX16710AWA+T.

How does the adaptive on-time algorithm in the MAX16710AWA+T improve reliability?

The adaptive on-time algorithm in the MAX16710AWA+T continuously tunes switching timing to maintain zero-current-switching despite resonant component drift from temperature, aging, and voltage derating. It also enforces a minimum off-time to prevent excessive peak currents and component overstress. This behavior is specified in the MAX16610/MAX16610A datasheet Rev. 5 under "Adaptation Algorithm" and directly contributes to extended lifetime in high-power datacenter deployments using the MAX16710AWA+T.

Can the MAX16710AWA+T be used with Class II ceramic capacitors in the resonant tank?

Yes, the MAX16710AWA+T's adaptive algorithm explicitly supports Class II dielectrics (e.g., X7R, X5R) in the STC resonant tank-unlike fixed-timing controllers that require tighter-tolerance Class I capacitors. This capability is documented in the MAX16610/MAX16610A datasheet Rev. 5 General Description and Benefits sections, enabling lower BOM cost and higher volumetric efficiency in designs using the MAX16710AWA+T.

What fault protection features are implemented in the MAX16710AWA+T?

The MAX16710AWA+T includes latching input overcurrent protection, output overvoltage protection with soar mitigation, bias-supply undervoltage lockout, component failure detection, and dual fault indicators (CRIT_FAULT and POWER_GOOD). These protections are detailed in the MAX16610/MAX16610A datasheet Rev. 5 Protection Features section and ensure safe operation during bus faults, short circuits, and supply anomalies in systems deploying the MAX16710AWA+T.