Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16824AUE+T

Overview

MAX16824AUE+T from Maxim Integrated is a high-voltage, three-channel linear LED driver IC designed for constant-current sinking of high-brightness LED strings. It operates from 6.5V to 28V input, delivers up to 150mA per channel with ±5% current accuracy, features independent PWM dimming inputs (PWM1–PWM3), and integrates a +5V (±5%) regulated output capable of sourcing 4mA. It is used in industrial and architectural LED lighting systems requiring precise multi-channel current control.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16824AUE+T datasheet, MAX16824AUE+T pinout, MAX16824AUE+T application, or MAX16824AUE+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 36V-rated open-drain outputs, 200mV current-sense reference for low-loss programming, thermal shutdown at +165°C, fast 1µs turn-on/turn-off times, and compatibility with long LED strings powered up to 36V.

Technical Context

The MAX16824AUE+T implements linear current regulation using internal pass MOSFETs, with each channel's output current set by an external sense resistor referenced to a precision 200mV internal bandgap voltage. Its three independent PWM inputs directly control output conduction-logic-high enables full current, logic-low disables the channel-with sub-microsecond switching response (1µs rise/fall time) and <500ns PWM propagation delay.

It integrates a dedicated +5V regulator (±5% tolerance, 4mA source capability) for auxiliary circuitry, shares a common ground-referenced current-sense architecture across all channels, and employs thermal shutdown with 23°C hysteresis triggered at +165°C junction temperature-disabled only if REG is shorted to GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16824AUE+T is housed in a thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP (exposed pad) package, optimized for high-power dissipation in compact LED driver layouts. The exposed pad must be soldered to a large-area ground plane for effective thermal management but is not electrically connected to GND internally.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16825AUE+, the MAX16824AUE+T provides simpler, deterministic PWM timing without serial protocol overhead; compared with TPS92691QPWPRQ1, it delivers lower dropout, integrated 5V regulation, and better thermal resistance (θ_JA = 38.3°C/W vs. ~55°C/W), making it preferable for space-constrained industrial and architectural designs.

Availability

MAX16824AUE+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial lighting, architectural LED systems, and automotive interior lighting requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX16824AUE+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 and mixed-signal ICs for power management, sensing, and interface applications in industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX16824/MAX16825 product line was engineered specifically for high-reliability, multi-string HB LED lighting where linear regulation, tight current matching, and thermal resilience are critical-targeting applications that avoid switching noise and require minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED string voltage supported by MAX16824AUE+T?

The MAX16824AUE+T outputs are rated to 36V, meaning the anode-side supply voltage for each LED string can be up to 36V above GND. This allows driving typical white LED strings of 10–12 devices (VF ≈ 3.0–3.4V each) while maintaining sufficient headroom for the 200mV sense voltage and dropout margin. Operation beyond 36V risks permanent damage per Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Can MAX16824AUE+T drive LEDs with different forward voltages on each channel?

Yes. Each channel (OUT1/OUT2/OUT3) operates independently with its own current-sense resistor (CS1/CS2/CS3), so different LED string configurations-including varying VF, number of LEDs, or even mixed-color strings-can be driven simultaneously at matched current levels. The 36V output rating applies individually to each channel, enabling flexible system design.

Does MAX16824AUE+T require external MOSFETs for current sinking?

No. The MAX16824AUE+T integrates three internal N-channel MOSFETs as pass elements for each output channel. No external MOSFETs are needed-only external current-sense resistors (RCS1–RCS3) and basic bypass capacitors (CIN, CREG) are required for full operation, minimizing bill-of-materials and PCB area.

How does the +5V regulator (REG pin) behave under load?

The REG pin delivers a tightly regulated +5V (±5%) output capable of sourcing up to 4mA continuously. Its voltage remains stable across the full input range (6.5V–28V) and temperature range (–40°C to +125°C), as confirmed in Typical Operating Characteristics (Figure toc08). A 1µF ceramic capacitor to GND is mandatory for stability and transient response.

What happens to MAX16824AUE+T outputs during thermal shutdown?

When the junction temperature exceeds +165°C, the MAX16824AUE+T disables all three output channels (OUT1–OUT3) to prevent damage. Outputs remain off until the junction cools by at least 23°C (to ≤ +142°C), at which point regulation resumes automatically. Thermal protection is disabled only if the REG pin is shorted to GND-otherwise, it functions continuously.