Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936RATEA/V+T

Overview

MAX16936RATEA/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5A current-mode step-down DC-DC converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive power supplies requiring 3.5V–36V input, 5V fixed output (±2% accuracy), 28µA no-load quiescent current, and resistor-programmable 220kHz–2.2MHz switching frequency. It supports forced-PWM (FPWM) and skip modes, features 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, and operates across –40°C to +125°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936RATEA/V+T datasheet, MAX16936RATEA/V+T pinout, MAX16936RATEA/V+T application, or MAX16936RATEA/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC-Q100 qualification, 42V load-dump protection, 98% max duty cycle for cold-crank resilience, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and power-good sequencing capability in automotive infotainment and ADAS subsystems.

Technical Context

The MAX16936RATEA/V+T implements current-mode control with cycle-by-cycle current limiting and automatic LX slew-rate adjustment-4ns rise time at >1.1MHz, 8ns below-to optimize EMI-efficiency trade-offs. Its dual supply inputs (SUP/SUPSW) decouple logic and switch biasing, enabling stable operation during undervoltage transients down to 3.5V.

It integrates a 5V BIAS linear regulator (4.7–5.4V output, ±200mV UVLO hysteresis) that powers internal circuitry until OUT reaches regulation, then transitions to OUT-supplied operation above 100mA load. The FSYNC pin selects FPWM (for EMI-sensitive RF transceivers) or skip mode (for light-load efficiency), with external clock synchronization within ±20% frequency tolerance and one-cycle acquisition.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936RATEA/V+T is housed in a 16-pin TQFN-EP package (5mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad connected to PGND. This thermally enhanced package delivers 35°C/W junction-to-ambient resistance, enabling 2.5A operation without heatsinking in ambient up to +70°C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480RQR and TPS650361ARSLR, the MAX16936RATEA/V+T uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, 180° SYNCOUT for interleaving, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and pin-selectable FPWM/skip modes-making it optimal for automotive 5V PoL supplies where reliability, thermal robustness, and emission compliance are non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX16936RATEA/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, telematics control units, and gateway ECUs requiring stable component supply with long-term automotive lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX16936RATEA/V+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 demanding industrial, medical, and automotive applications.

The MAX16936RATEA/V+T belongs to Maxim's automotive-grade DC-DC converter family engineered specifically for harsh-temperature, high-transient automotive environments-emphasizing AEC-Q100 compliance, load-dump resilience, and EMI-controlled operation.

FAQ

What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX16936RATEA/V+T?

The MAX16936RATEA/V+T is factory-configured for fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line. It achieves this by internally connecting the FB pin to the BIAS regulator, eliminating external feedback resistors. No resistor divider is needed unless adjusting to other voltages (1V–10V), which requires reconfiguring FB externally - but the MAX16936RATEA/V+T variant itself is strictly 5V fixed.

Does the MAX16936RATEA/V+T support synchronization to an external clock source?

Yes, the MAX16936RATEA/V+T supports external clock synchronization via the FSYNC pin. When driven with a logic-level clock signal (1.8MHz–2.6MHz, 100ns minimum pulse width), the device locks to the external frequency within one cycle. The internal spread-spectrum modulation is automatically disabled during synchronization, preserving the external clock's spectral profile at SYNCOUT.

How does the MAX16936RATEA/V+T handle cold-crank conditions in automotive systems?

The MAX16936RATEA/V+T maintains regulation during cold-crank (as low as 3.5V input) by operating up to 98% duty cycle. Its dual-supply architecture (SUP/SUPSW) ensures the internal LDO remains active even when input drops below the 5V output, and the automatic LX slew-rate control preserves efficiency. Combined with –40°C to +125°C operation, it delivers uninterrupted power to critical ECUs during engine start.

What protection features are integrated into the MAX16936RATEA/V+T?

The MAX16936RATEA/V+T integrates cycle-by-cycle current limiting, thermal shutdown with 15°C hysteresis (trip at +175°C), overvoltage protection (107% of VOUT), 42V load-dump tolerance, and undervoltage lockout on BIAS (2.95V–3.40V). These protections operate autonomously without external components, ensuring robust operation in automotive transients without sacrificing footprint or bill-of-materials cost.

Can the MAX16936RATEA/V+T be used in interleaved configurations?

Yes, the MAX16936RATEA/V+T supports interleaved operation via its SYNCOUT pin, which outputs a 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to the internal oscillator. By connecting SYNCOUT of one MAX16936RATEA/V+T to the FSYNC pin of a second identical device, designers achieve true two-phase interleaving - reducing input/output ripple, improving transient response, and lowering RMS capacitor currents without additional controllers.