Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF

Overview

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF from Maxim Integrated is a 3A, current-mode, automotive-grade step-down DC-DC converter with integrated 70mΩ high-side MOSFET, operating from 3.5V to 36V input and delivering 5V fixed or 1V–10V adjustable output. It features 30µA standby current, 220kHz–1MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for engine control units and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF datasheet, MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF pinout, MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF application, or MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 42V transient tolerance, skip-mode light-load efficiency, integrated BIAS LDO, PGOOD monitoring, and thermal/overvoltage/overcurrent protection in TSSOP-16 package.

Technical Context

This buck regulator uses constant-frequency current-mode control with internal transconductance error amplifier (gm = 900µS), 110ns minimum on-time, and 98% max duty cycle during cold-crank undervoltage events. Its dual supply inputs (SUP and SUPSW) decouple bias and switch-driver power paths to maintain regulation down to 3.5V input.

The device integrates a 5V/100mA BIAS LDO, supports external clock synchronization via FSYNC (10% higher than internal f_SW), and employs fast-loop architecture with load-line compensation to achieve <100µs recovery from 0.5A load transients while maintaining ±1% V_OUT accuracy over line, load, and temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP package with exposed pad (EP) for thermal dissipation. The package measures 5mm × 4.4mm × 1.1mm and requires soldering to a large-area ground plane via EP for junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 38.3°C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down converter applications.

Compared with LM5143AQPWPRQ1 and TPS543B20RTWR, MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF uniquely combines 42V transient tolerance, integrated BIAS LDO, and 30µA standby current in a single TSSOP package-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained automotive modules requiring robustness and ultra-low sleep current.

Availability

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, ADAS camera modules, telematics gateways, and industrial PLC I/O requiring stable component supply with full AEC-Q100 qualification and long-term production support.

Supply support for MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF 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 MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for harsh-environment DC-DC conversion in engine compartments and ADAS systems where wide input range, low quiescent current, and transient resilience are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage transient tolerance for MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF?

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF withstands 42V input transients for durations under 1 second, complying with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) requirements. This allows direct connection to automotive battery without external TVS clamping, reducing system cost and footprint. The device continues normal operation during 36V continuous input and recovers automatically after transient clearance.

Does MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF supports 1V to 10V adjustable output via an external resistive divider from OUT to FB to GND. When FB is connected directly to BIAS, the output is fixed at 5V. The feedback reference voltage is precisely 1.00V ±1.5%, enabling accurate regulation across temperature and load. No additional components are needed for 5V operation.

How does the skip mode operation of MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF improve light-load efficiency?

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF enters skip mode below ~300mA load, disabling non-essential circuitry and sourcing bias from V_OUT (3–5.5V) instead of SUP. This reduces total operating current to 30µA typical, improving efficiency to >85% at 10mA load. The converter resumes PWM operation automatically when load increases, ensuring seamless transition without external intervention.

What thermal management provisions are required for MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF in TSSOP-16 package?

MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF in TSSOP-16 requires connection of the exposed pad (EP) to a large-area contiguous copper ground plane to achieve 38.3°C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance. Without EP grounding, thermal performance degrades significantly. The device includes thermal shutdown at +175°C with 15°C hysteresis, enabling automatic recovery after cooling.

Can MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF synchronize to an external clock, and what are the constraints?

Yes, MAX16909RAUE/V+CMF accepts external clock signals on the FSYNC pin. The external frequency must exceed the internal switching frequency by at least 10% for reliable synchronization. FSYNC thresholds are 0.4V (low) and 1.4V (high), supporting standard CMOS logic levels. Synchronization enables EMI reduction and system-level timing coordination in multi-rail power architectures.