Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936RATEB/V+

Overview

MAX16936RATEB/V+ 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 switching frequency from 220kHz to 2.2MHz. 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 MAX16936RATEB/V+ datasheet, MAX16936RATEB/V+ pinout, MAX16936RATEB/V+ application, or MAX16936RATEB/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC-Q100 qualification, 42V load-dump protection, FPWM/EMI control via FSYNC, power-good sequencing capability, and compatibility with external Schottky diode for efficiency optimization in automotive point-of-load systems.

Technical Context

The MAX16936RATEB/V+ 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 minimize EMI while preserving efficiency. Its dual supply inputs (SUP and SUPSW) enable robust cold-crank operation down to 3.5V with up to 98% duty cycle during undervoltage transients.

It integrates a 5V BIAS linear regulator (4.7–5.4V output, ±200mV UVLO hysteresis) that powers internal circuitry until VOUT reaches regulation, then transitions to OUT-supplied bias above 100mA load. The open-drain PGOOD output asserts at 95% VFB and deasserts at 92% VFB, supporting precise power-supply sequencing in multi-rail systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936RATEB/V+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin mapping is identical to the MAX16936 family and validated per Maxim's official pinout documentation (Rev 18, p.8).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1 and TPS650361RSLR, the MAX16936RATEB/V+ delivers integrated dual-FET topology, AEC-Q100 Grade 0/1 qualification, and unique features like SYNCOUT phasing and automatic slew-rate control-making it optimal for compact, single-rail automotive 5V supplies where BOM count, thermal performance, and EMI control are critical.

Availability

MAX16936RATEB/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, ADAS camera modules, and industrial CAN gateways requiring stable component supply with long lifecycle support and AEC-Q100 compliance.

Supply support for MAX16936RATEB/V+ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16936 family was designed specifically for automotive power conversion-emphasizing wide input range, ultra-low quiescent current, AEC-Q100 qualification, and robust transient protection for under-hood and infotainment applications.

FAQ

What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX16936RATEB/V+?

The MAX16936RATEB/V+ provides a fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line/load conditions. This is achieved by internally connecting the FB pin to the BIAS regulator, eliminating the need for external feedback resistors. The device does not support adjustable output or 3.3V fixed variants-those are designated as MAX16936BATEB/V+ (3.3V) or MAX16936AAEB/V+ (adjustable). The MAX16936RATEB/V+ is strictly a 5V fixed-output variant.

Does the MAX16936RATEB/V+ require an external Schottky diode, and why?

Yes, the MAX16936RATEB/V+ requires an external Schottky diode connected from LX to PGND. Although it integrates both high-side and low-side MOSFETs, the low-side FET is used only for FPWM mode and current limiting-not for full synchronous rectification across all loads. The external diode improves light-load efficiency and ensures reliable operation during boundary conduction and discontinuous conduction modes, especially under cold-crank or low-VIN conditions where the internal low-side FET alone cannot sustain regulation.

How does the FSYNC pin control operating mode in the MAX16936RATEB/V+?

The FSYNC pin selects between skip mode and forced-PWM (FPWM) mode. When FSYNC is pulled to AGND, the device enters skip mode-reducing switching frequency at light loads to minimize quiescent current (28µA). When FSYNC is tied to BIAS or driven by an external clock (1.8–2.6MHz), it enables FPWM mode-maintaining constant switching frequency across all loads to suppress EMI and eliminate audible noise. The MAX16936RATEB/V+ does not support auto-mode transition; the selection is static and determined by FSYNC biasing.

What thermal management considerations apply to the MAX16936RATEB/V+ in a TSSOP-EP package?

The MAX16936RATEB/V+ in TSSOP-EP has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA) of 38.3°C/W on a multilayer JEDEC board. To maintain safe operation at 2.5A continuous load, the PCB must incorporate a large copper pour connected to the exposed pad (EP), which must be soldered to PGND. Derating begins above +70°C ambient (26.1mW/°C), limiting max continuous power dissipation to 2088.8mW at +70°C. Thermal shutdown activates at +175°C junction with 15°C hysteresis, enabling automatic recovery after cooldown.

Is the MAX16936RATEB/V+ pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX16936/MAX16938 family?

Yes, the MAX16936RATEB/V+ shares identical pinout, package (16-pin TSSOP-EP), and footprint with all MAX16936 and MAX16938 variants-including MAX16936BATEB/V+, MAX16936AAEB/V+, and MAX16938 variants. All share the same electrical interface, timing behavior, and functional block diagram. However, output voltage (5V vs. 3.3V vs. adjustable), overvoltage protection threshold (107% vs. 105%), and spread-spectrum enablement differ by part number and are factory-configured-not user-selectable.