Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16823AUE+T

Overview

The MAX16823AUE+T from Maxim Integrated is a high-voltage, 3-channel linear LED driver IC designed for automotive exterior lighting. It operates from 5.5V to 40V input, delivers up to 100mA per channel with ±5% current accuracy, features three independent DIM inputs for pulsed dimming, and integrates open-LED detection via the active-low LEDGOOD output-used in rear combination lights (RCLs) and CHMSL systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16823AUE+T datasheet, MAX16823AUE+T pinout, MAX16823AUE+T application, or MAX16823AUE+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature rating, 203mV precision current-sense reference, integrated 3.4V/4mA regulator, thermal shutdown at 155°C, and TSSOP-EP package compatibility with load-dump resilience up to 45V.

Technical Context

The MAX16823AUE+T employs linear constant-current regulation per channel using internal pass elements with max 0.7V dropout at 70mA. Each channel's output current is set by an external sense resistor referenced to a factory-trimmed 203mV internal voltage, enabling accurate 5–100mA programming. The device uses analog feedback loops-not switching topology-to maintain stable LED current across wide VIN and temperature ranges.

Its three DIM inputs serve dual roles: logic-level enable/disable control and low-frequency PWM dimming (0–3kHz), while the LGC pin accepts an external capacitor to program LEDGOOD delay timing. The open-drain LEDGOOD output asserts low on open-LED fault or prolonged DIM low condition, and thermal protection disables all outputs above 155°C junction temperature with 23°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX16823AUE+T is packaged in a thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP (exposed pad) measuring 5mm × 4.4mm, optimized for automotive PCB layouts requiring high power dissipation and EMI robustness.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-channel linear LED driver applications.

Compared with MAX16823ATE+T, the MAX16823AUE+T trades slightly higher thermal resistance for broader board-level compatibility with standard TSSOP land patterns; versus TPS92633QPWPRQ1, it offers simpler implementation and lower BOM count where digital diagnostics are unnecessary.

Availability

The MAX16823AUE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive exterior lighting, interior ambient lighting, emergency warning systems, and marine navigation indicators requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MAX16823AUE+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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16823 product line delivers high-voltage, multi-channel linear LED drivers optimized for automotive lighting safety and reliability-specifically targeting rear lamps, CHMSL, and interior ambient systems with stringent AEC-Q100 compliance and load-dump resilience.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current per channel for the MAX16823AUE+T?

The MAX16823AUE+T delivers up to 100mA per channel under normal operation. With an external BJT configured as shown in Figure 5 of the datasheet, it supports output currents up to 2A per channel. This extended capability requires careful thermal design and verification of voltage headroom (VIN > VBE + VFT + VCS_ + VDO). The MAX16823AUE+T's internal pass elements are rated for ≤100mA continuous per channel without external boosting.

Does the MAX16823AUE+T support PWM dimming, and what is its frequency range?

Yes, the MAX16823AUE+T supports pulsed dimming via its three independent DIM inputs, with a specified frequency range of 0–3kHz. Each DIM input functions as both an enable signal and a PWM control input, allowing independent brightness adjustment per channel. The device achieves fast response with ≤28µs turn-on time and ≤18µs turn-off time, making it suitable for flicker-free dimming in automotive lighting applications. The MAX16823AUE+T does not include internal clock generation - external PWM sources must drive the DIM pins directly.

How does the LEDGOOD output function, and what triggers it?

The LEDGOOD output of the MAX16823AUE+T is an active-low, open-drain signal that goes low under two conditions: (1) detection of an open LED string in any of the three channels, or (2) if any DIM input remains low longer than the programmed LEDGOOD delay time (set by capacitor on LGC pin). The delay is calculated as 4×tCK to 6×tCK, where tCK = 112,000 × CLGC. During thermal shutdown, LEDGOOD also asserts low. The MAX16823AUE+T requires an external pull-up resistor on LEDGOOD to interface with microcontroller GPIO or fault-monitoring circuits.

What is the purpose of the REG pin on the MAX16823AUE+T, and what happens if it is shorted to ground?

The REG pin on the MAX16823AUE+T provides a regulated 3.4V ±5% output capable of sourcing up to 4mA for auxiliary circuitry such as microcontrollers, comparators, or level-shifters. A 0.1µF capacitor must be placed between REG and GND for stability. Critically, shorting REG to ground disables the thermal shutdown function - this behavior is documented in the datasheet Note 4 and is leveraged in latch-off circuits (Figure 3) where fault-induced shutdown must persist until power cycle. The MAX16823AUE+T's REG output remains functional across the full 5.5V–40V input range.

Can the MAX16823AUE+T operate in automotive environments with load-dump transients?

Yes, the MAX16823AUE+T is explicitly designed for automotive use and withstands load-dump transients up to 45V, exceeding ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a requirements for 12V systems. Its absolute maximum input rating is +45V, and it incorporates undervoltage lockout (UVLO) with 4.4V–5.4V hysteresis to prevent malfunction during cold-crank conditions. The device is qualified for the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range and features integrated short-circuit and thermal protections. The MAX16823AUE+T's robustness makes it suitable for rear combination lights, CHMSL, and other exterior lighting modules exposed to harsh vehicle electrical environments.