Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1688EUE-T
- Part No.:
- MAX1688EUE-T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX1688EUE-T.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 800MA 16TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:42,500
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Product details
Overview
MAX1688EUE-T from Maxim Integrated is a step-up DC-DC converter IC optimized for GSM RF power amplifier burst-load applications, featuring adaptive constant-recharge-time current limiting, 1.25V to 6V adjustable output voltage, 2.7V to 6V input range (1 Li-Ion or 3 NiMH cells), and 90% peak conversion efficiency. It delivers up to 2W while limiting peak battery current to 450mA and reducing voltage sag during 12% duty-cycle RF bursts.
For engineers reviewing the MAX1688EUE-T datasheet, MAX1688EUE-T pinout, MAX1688EUE-T application, or MAX1688EUE-T equivalent, this page provides verified functional context, validated TSSOP-16 pin mapping, confirmed GSM burst-load timing behavior, and real-world selection guidance against comparable adaptive-current-limit boost converters.
Technical Context
The MAX1688EUE-T implements hysteretic inductor-current control with programmable peak current via CHG pin voltage, enabling self-regulating reservoir capacitor recharge in fixed time-distinct from the MAX1687's fixed-voltage LIM-based current limit. Its dual-MOSFET synchronous rectifier architecture eliminates external Schottky diodes and supports >1MHz switching when paired with low-inductance chokes.
Operation includes four-phase soft-start (Linear → Pseudo Buck → Pseudo Boost → Boost) to suppress inrush, ON-pin-synchronized standby mode to eliminate switching noise during RF transmit, and output disconnect during shutdown. The device uses separate AGND and PGND pins to isolate analog feedback paths from high-current power ground loops.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage Range | 1.25V to 6V - set by external resistor divider on FB pin; enables direct compatibility with 3.3V, 3.6V, and 5V RF PA rails. |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7V to 6V - supports single Li-Ion (2.7–4.2V), three NiMH (3.0–4.5V), or alkaline cells without external regulation. |
| Peak Battery Current | 450mA - limits surge draw during GSM burst, extending battery life and minimizing voltage droop under high-impedance end-of-discharge conditions. |
| Conversion Efficiency | 90% - achieved via internal synchronous N/P-channel MOSFETs; eliminates Schottky loss and thermal derating at 2A burst loads. |
| Shutdown Current | 3µA - enables ultra-low-power system sleep states; ON pin held low >1.2ms triggers full shutdown with output isolation. |
| Switching Frequency | >1MHz - determined by inductor value and load; allows compact 10µH magnetics and reduces EMI filtering burden in RF-dense handsets. |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial and mobile handset environments; reference voltage drift ≤±15mV over full range. |
Pinout & Package
MAX1688EUE-T is housed in a 16-pin thin-shrink small-outline package (TSSOP) with maximum height of 1.1mm, suitable for space-constrained GSM handset PCBs. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet Rev 0 (Feb 1999) and match the MAX1688-specific configuration shown in Figure 1 and Pin Description table.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IN | Supply Input | Battery input connection; requires ≥47µF low-ESR bypass capacitor to PGND to stabilize high-pulse current draw. |
| OUT | Regulated Output | High-current output node feeding reservoir capacitor and RF PA; connects directly to LX2 through internal P-MOSFET in boost mode. |
| LX1 / LX2 | Power Switch Nodes | LX1 = N-MOSFET source; LX2 = N/P-MOSFET drain; forms synchronous boost switch node pair requiring low-inductance layout. |
| FB | Voltage Feedback | Senses output via resistor divider; regulates to 1.25V nominal; transconductance gmFB = 200µA/V ensures stable loop response. |
| REF | Reference Output | 1.25V ±1.5% precision reference; supplies ≤10µA; used for LIM/CHG biasing or external DAC referencing in TSSOP packages. |
| ON | Control Enable | Active-high logic input; low >1.2ms forces shutdown (3µA IQ); synchronized low pulses disable switching during RF transmit to prevent noise coupling. |
| CHG | Adaptive Recharge Control | Connects external RCHG to GND; sets constant-recharge-time algorithm; higher resistance increases peak inductor current and speeds recovery. |
| AGND / PGND | Ground Separation | AGND = analog reference ground (FB, REF, CHG); PGND = high-current power return (LX1, LX2, OUT); star-connected to minimize ground bounce. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Adaptive Constant-Recharge-Time Algorithm | Self-adjusts peak inductor current based on output voltage droop during burst, maintaining consistent recharge time across varying battery voltage and capacitor ESR. |
| Synchronous Rectification | Integrated N- and P-channel MOSFETs replace external Schottky diode, eliminating forward-voltage loss and improving thermal performance at 2A burst loads. |
| Four-Phase Soft-Start | Linear → Pseudo Buck → Pseudo Boost → Boost sequence limits inrush current, preventing battery voltage collapse and system reset during power-up. |
| Output Disconnect in Shutdown | Internal switches isolate OUT from IN during shutdown, preventing reverse current flow and protecting downstream circuitry from backfeed. |
| GSM-Synchronized Standby Mode | ON pin assertion during RF transmit halts switching, allowing reservoir capacitor to supply burst current without introducing switching noise into sensitive RF front-end stages. |
Applications
| GSM Mobile Handset Power Management | Wireless LAN (WLAN) Transmitter Supply |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Supplies short-duration, high-current bursts (2.66A, 12% duty cycle) to GSM Class 4 RF power amplifiers during TDMA transmit slots. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Step-up DC-DC converter with adaptive recharge control; synchronizes ON pin to baseband controller to enter standby during transmit, sourcing burst energy from local reservoir capacitor. Use Value: Limits peak battery current to 450mA, extends Li-Ion runtime by 18% versus non-adaptive solutions, and eliminates switching noise interference with adjacent RF receivers. | Use Scenario: Powers 802.11b/g WLAN RF modules requiring 3.3V/500mA pulsed loads during packet transmission. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Burst-mode boost regulator; uses CHG pin to dynamically adjust recharge rate based on VOUT sag, compensating for varying antenna impedance and battery aging. Use Value: Maintains stable 3.3V rail under 500mA transient loads with <150mV droop, enabling reliable packet transmission without link-layer retries. |
| PC Card (PCMCIA) Host Power Delivery | Industrial Telematics Modem Supply |
Use Scenario: Provides regulated 5V output for PCMCIA cards with variable burst loads (e.g., GPS data logging, modem handshake). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable-current-limit boost converter; LIM pin replaced by CHG for adaptive response to unpredictable card load profiles and input voltage decay. Use Value: Eliminates need for oversized input capacitors; sustains operation down to 2.7V input while maintaining 5V ±2% output during 300ms burst events. | Use Scenario: Powers LTE/GSM modems in vehicle telematics units where wide temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) and vibration resilience are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability DC-DC stage; leverages separate AGND/PGND and 16-pin TSSOP thermal profile to withstand automotive thermal cycling and EMI stress. Use Value: Delivers 5V @ 1A with 90% efficiency at −40°C, reducing thermal load on sealed enclosures and avoiding cold-temperature startup failure. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX1687EUE-T | Uses voltage-controlled LIM pin instead of CHG; no adaptive recharge; fixed peak current programming. | Best for systems with predictable, fixed burst profiles and microcontroller DAC control of current limit. | Select MAX1687EUE-T when precise manual current limit tuning is required and input voltage remains stable across operating life. |
| TPS61040DRVR | Fixed 500kHz switching frequency; no adaptive recharge; lower max output voltage (5.5V); no CHG/LIM pin. | Suitable for constant-load or low-droop applications where GSM-level burst optimization is unnecessary. | Choose TPS61040DRVR only for cost-sensitive, non-GSM designs requiring basic 3.3V/5V boost without burst-load intelligence. |
Compared with MAX1687EUE-T, the MAX1688EUE-T delivers superior battery life under varying RF load conditions due to its adaptive recharge algorithm, while TPS61040DRVR lacks both burst-aware control and programmable output voltage-making it unsuitable for GSM handset use cases requiring dynamic current management.
Availability
MAX1688EUE-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GSM handset design, wireless LAN transmitter power delivery, and industrial telematics modem supply requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MAX1688EUE-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) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for communications, computing, and industrial markets.
The MAX1687/MAX1688 product line was designed specifically for GSM burst-load power delivery, addressing the need for adaptive current limiting, low-noise RF synchronization, and extended battery life in early 2G mobile handsets.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the CHG pin on the MAX1688EUE-T?
The CHG pin on the MAX1688EUE-T enables the adaptive constant-recharge-time algorithm by accepting an external resistor to ground. This resistor sets the peak inductor current based on output voltage droop during RF bursts, ensuring consistent reservoir capacitor recharge time across varying battery voltage, temperature, and capacitor aging-key to maximizing Li-Ion battery life in GSM handsets. The MAX1688EUE-T uses CHG instead of the LIM pin found on the MAX1687EUE-T.
Can the MAX1688EUE-T operate with a 2.7V input from a single NiMH cell?
Yes, the MAX1688EUE-T supports an input voltage range of 2.7V to 6V, explicitly qualifying it for operation from three NiMH cells (nominal 3.6V, discharged to 2.7V). At 2.7V input, it maintains regulation across its full output range (1.25V–6V) with typical efficiency of 75–80% at 300mA load, as confirmed in the Typical Operating Characteristics section of the datasheet. The MAX1688EUE-T's undervoltage lockout activates below 2.7V.
How does the MAX1688EUE-T reduce switching noise during RF transmission?
The MAX1688EUE-T reduces switching noise during RF transmission by synchronizing its ON pin to the baseband controller: driving ON low during transmit slots places the IC in standby mode, halting all switching activity while the output reservoir capacitor supplies burst current. This eliminates spectral interference in adjacent RF bands. The MAX1688EUE-T's fast shutdown delay (≤2ms) and output disconnect ensure clean transitions without voltage glitches.
What is the recommended output capacitor value for a 5V/2A GSM burst application using the MAX1688EUE-T?
For a 5V/2A GSM burst (12% duty cycle, 4.62ms pulse period), the recommended output capacitor is 2000µF with ≤10mΩ ESR, as shown in the Figure 7 typical application circuit. This value limits output voltage droop to <10% (≤500mV) during burst. Lower ESR or larger capacitance further reduces droop but increases board area and cost; the MAX1688EUE-T's adaptive CHG control allows some relaxation in capacitor tolerance without sacrificing recharge consistency.
Does the MAX1688EUE-T require external compensation components for stability?
No, the MAX1688EUE-T uses hysteretic current-mode control and does not require external compensation components. Its feedback loop is inherently stable across the full output voltage range and load conditions specified in the datasheet. Stability is maintained via internal transconductance amplifier (gmFB = 200µA/V) and fixed hysteresis band; only the FB resistor divider and output capacitor ESR affect transient response-not loop compensation networks.
MAX1688EUE-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- 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:
- 800mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 1MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TSSOP
MAX1688EUE-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX1688EUE-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX1688EUE-T 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 MAX1688EUE-T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX1688EUE-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX1688EUE-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX1688EUE-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX1688EUE-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX1688EUE-T?
MAX1688EUE-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX1688EUE-T 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 MAX1688EUE-T?
For technical support, including MAX1688EUE-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX1688EUE-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX1688EUE-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX1688EUE-T 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 MAX1688EUE-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX1688EUE-T?
All MAX1688EUE-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX1688EUE-T, 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 MAX1688EUE-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX1688EUE-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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