Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1688ESA+
- Part No.:
- MAX1688ESA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1688ESA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 730MA 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,913
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX1688ESA+ from Maxim Integrated is a step-up DC-DC converter IC designed for GSM RF power amplifier burst-load supply, featuring adaptive constant-recharge-time current limiting, 1.25V–6V adjustable output, 2.7V–6V input range, and 90% peak efficiency. It operates in 8-pin SO package and delivers up to 2W while limiting peak battery current to 450mA for Li-Ion/NiMH-powered handsets.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1688ESA+ datasheet, MAX1688ESA+ pinout, MAX1688ESA+ application, or MAX1688ESA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its GSM-synchronized standby mode, CHG-pin-controlled recharge timing, internal synchronous rectification, 3µA shutdown current, and precise 1.25V feedback reference with ±2% tolerance over –40°C to +85°C.
Technical Context
The MAX1688ESA+ implements hysteretic inductor-current control with peak current set by the CHG pin voltage and internal transconductance (gmCHG = 0.8A/V), enabling adaptive recharge of the output reservoir capacitor based on VOUT droop. Its functional diagram integrates dual MOSFETs (P-channel and N-channel), internal current-sense resistor (RSENSE = 0.7Ω typ), and analog ground (AGND) / power ground (PGND) separation for noise-sensitive RF burst operation.
It supports four-phase startup (Linear Regulator → Pseudo Buck → Pseudo Boost → Boost) to limit inrush current, and enters standby mode on ON pin low assertion-disconnecting output from input and ramping inductor current to zero-then shuts down after 1.2ms with 3µA quiescent current. The CHG pin sets fixed recharge time via external resistor (e.g., 40.2kΩ for optimized GSM recovery).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7V to 6V - supports single Li-Ion, three NiMH, or three alkaline cells without external regulation. |
| Output Voltage Range | 1.25V to 6V - set externally via resistor divider on FB pin; 1.25V nominal feedback threshold enables precise regulation. |
| Peak Efficiency | 90% - achieved using internal synchronous rectification, eliminating external Schottky diode and reducing conduction loss. |
| Shutdown Current | 3µA - enables ultra-low-power system sleep states; verified at VIN = 4.2V, VOUT = 0, ON = GND. |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C - specified across full industrial range; FB set voltage drift ≤ ±2% over this range. |
| Switching Frequency | Exceeds 1MHz - determined by inductor value and load; typical 150kHz–1MHz range allows compact magnetics selection. |
| Peak Battery Current | 450mA - limits surge during GSM 12% duty-cycle bursts, extending battery life and minimizing voltage sag. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1688ESA+ is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, 1.75mm height, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, with gull-wing leads and Pb-free + RoHS-compliant finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 IN | Supply Input | Battery input connection; requires ≥47µF bypass capacitor to PGND to stabilize input during high-current bursts. |
| 2 LX1 | Internal N-Channel Switch Source | Connects to inductor; forms low-side switch node with LX2; internal RSENSE (0.7Ω) senses current for adaptive control. |
| 3 FB | Feedback Input | Regulates output to 1.25V nominal; connects to resistor divider from OUT to GND; gmFB = 200µA/V ensures stable loop response. |
| 4 REF | Reference Output | 1.25V ±2% precision reference; supplies ≤10µA; used for LIM/CHG biasing in TSSOP variants (not used in SO package per pinout). |
| 5 AGND | Analog Ground | Separate ground return for FB, REF, and CHG/LIM circuitry to prevent noise coupling into regulation path. |
| 6 PGND | Power Ground | High-current return for LX1, LX2, and OUT; must be star-connected to minimize ground bounce during switching. |
| 7 ON | Logic Control Input | Active-high enable; low for >1.2ms triggers 3µA shutdown; synchronized low during RF transmit eliminates switching noise injection. |
| 8 CHG | Constant-Recharge-Time Input | Accepts external resistor to GND (e.g., 40.2kΩ); sets peak inductor current to achieve fixed recharge time after GSM burst. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Constant-Recharge-Time Algorithm | Uses CHG pin and internal gmCHG to dynamically adjust peak inductor current based on VOUT droop-ensuring consistent reservoir capacitor recharge time across varying battery voltage and load conditions. |
| Internal Synchronous Rectification | Integrates P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs with RDS(ON) ≤0.8Ω (P) and ≤0.18Ω (N), eliminating external Schottky diode and improving efficiency by ~5% vs. asynchronous designs. |
| GSM-Synchronized Standby Mode | ON pin assertion disables switching during RF transmit bursts, allowing output reservoir capacitor to supply peak load current-removing switching noise from sensitive RF front-end circuits. |
| Four-Phase Soft-Start Sequence | Progresses from Linear Regulator → Pseudo Buck → Pseudo Boost → Boost to limit inrush current and prevent battery voltage collapse during power-up. |
| Output Disconnect During Shutdown | Internal switches isolate OUT from IN when ON = low, preventing reverse current flow and protecting downstream circuitry during battery removal or deep sleep. |
Applications
| GSM Mobile Handset Power Supply | Wireless LAN PC Card (PCMCIA) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Supplies 5V/2A pulsed power to RF power amplifier during 12% duty-cycle GSM transmit bursts from a single Li-Ion cell. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Step-up DC-DC converter with adaptive recharge timing; synchronizes ON pin disable with RF transmit window to eliminate switching noise. Use Value: Limits peak battery current to 450mA, extends usable battery life by 18% vs. non-adaptive converters, and reduces voltage sag below 3.0V during burst. | Use Scenario: Powers 3.3V/350mA continuous load in PCMCIA wireless adapter operating from 2.7–6V host bus supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable-output boost regulator with fixed-current-limit configuration; uses LIM pin tied to GND for 200mA limit in non-burst applications. Use Value: Delivers stable 3.3V output with <50mV ripple under full load, leveraging internal 0.7Ω sense resistor and 90% efficiency to minimize thermal rise in compact card form factor. |
| Industrial Telematics Module | Portable Medical Pulse Oximeter |
Use Scenario: Provides regulated 5.5V supply to cellular modem during intermittent data transmission bursts in vehicle-mounted tracking units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Burst-mode power manager; CHG pin configured for 31.5kΩ to match 2.66A IBURST and 0.36V VDROOP per GSM spec. Use Value: Achieves 1.2ms recovery time post-burst with <1% output droop, ensuring reliable modem handshake even at end-of-battery-life (2.7V VIN). | Use Scenario: Powers LED driver and analog front-end in battery-operated pulse oximeter requiring low-noise, low-EMI power delivery during optical sensing cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-EMI boost converter; ON pin controlled by microcontroller to disable switching during ADC sampling windows. Use Value: Reduces conducted EMI by >20dB in 1–10MHz band versus always-on converters, preserving signal integrity of weak photodiode current measurements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-up DC-DC converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX1687ESA+ | Lacks CHG pin; uses LIM pin for fixed voltage-controlled current limit (0–1V input); no adaptive recharge algorithm. | Suitable for systems with predictable, fixed burst profiles where recharge timing need not adapt to battery voltage decay. | Select MAX1687ESA+ when microcontroller-based current limit adjustment is required and adaptive VOUT-droop response is unnecessary. |
| TPS61040DRVR | Fixed 500kHz switching frequency; no CHG/LIM pins; 0.5A max output; lacks GSM-specific standby synchronization logic. | Targeted at general-purpose portable electronics-not optimized for RF burst noise isolation or reservoir capacitor management. | Choose TPS61040DRVR only for cost-sensitive, non-GSM applications requiring basic boost functionality with minimal external components. |
Compared with MAX1687ESA+, the MAX1688ESA+ provides superior battery life extension via adaptive recharge timing, while TPS61040DRVR offers simpler layout but cannot replicate GSM-synchronized noise suppression or droop-compensated current control-making MAX1688ESA+ the only choice for RF-critical burst-load designs.
Availability
MAX1688ESA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GSM handset design, wireless PC card development, and industrial telematics modules requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and full traceability.
Supply support for MAX1688ESA+ 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) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and consumer applications.
The MAX1687/MAX1688 product line was engineered specifically for GSM/RF burst-load power management, addressing the need for low-noise, battery-preserving DC-DC conversion in space-constrained mobile handsets and wireless peripherals.
FAQ
What is the function of the CHG pin on the MAX1688ESA+?
The CHG pin on the MAX1688ESA+ sets the constant-recharge-time behavior by accepting an external resistor to GND. This resistor determines peak inductor current to ensure the output reservoir capacitor recharges fully within a fixed time after each GSM burst-compensating for battery voltage decay and capacitor aging. Unlike the MAX1687ESA+, the MAX1688ESA+ does not use the LIM pin; CHG is its defining adaptive control interface.
Does the MAX1688ESA+ require an external Schottky diode?
No, the MAX1688ESA+ does not require an external Schottky diode. It integrates internal synchronous rectification using complementary P-channel and N-channel MOSFETs, achieving >90% efficiency and eliminating diode forward-voltage loss and associated thermal stress. This integration reduces bill-of-materials count and PCB area versus asynchronous boost converters.
Can the MAX1688ESA+ operate with a 2.7V input and deliver 5V at 1A continuous load?
Yes, the MAX1688ESA+ supports 2.7V–6V input and can deliver 5V at 1A continuous load, though efficiency drops to ~75% at VIN = 2.7V per Typical Operating Characteristics. For GSM burst loads (e.g., 2A at 12% duty cycle), it sustains 5V output with <100mV droop using a 2000µF low-ESR output capacitor-verified in Figure 7 application circuit.
How does the MAX1688ESA+ reduce switching noise during RF transmission?
The MAX1688ESA+ reduces switching noise during RF transmission by synchronizing its ON pin to the RF transmit window: asserting ON = low places the IC in standby mode, halting switching and allowing the output reservoir capacitor to supply burst current. This eliminates high-frequency switching harmonics from coupling into the RF front-end-critical for meeting GSM spectral mask requirements.
What is the maximum recommended output capacitor value for the MAX1688ESA+?
The MAX1688ESA+ has no absolute maximum output capacitor value, but practical design limits apply: for GSM burst applications, 2000µF is standard (per Figure 7), and values up to 4700µF are supported with proper ESR (<10mΩ) and layout. Larger capacitors improve droop margin but increase inrush current and startup time-requiring verification of the four-phase soft-start sequence under worst-case conditions.
MAX1688ESA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.7V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 6V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 1.25V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 6V
- Current - Output:
- 730mA (Switch)
- Frequency - Switching:
- 1MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX1688ESA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1688ESA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1688ESA+ 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 MAX1688ESA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1688ESA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1688ESA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1688ESA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1688ESA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1688ESA+?
MAX1688ESA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1688ESA+ 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 MAX1688ESA+?
For technical support, including MAX1688ESA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1688ESA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1688ESA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1688ESA+ 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 MAX1688ESA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1688ESA+?
All MAX1688ESA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1688ESA+, 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 MAX1688ESA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1688ESA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX1688ESA+ Tags

-
TPS562201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ABD-TR
STMicroelectronics

-
TPS561201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC33063ADR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ADR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS560200DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AP3012KTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TLV61048DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AZ34063UMTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TPS562200DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
AP62300TWU-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
MC34063EBD-TR
STMicroelectronics
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…
