Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936RATEB/V+T

Overview

MAX16936RATEB/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5A, current-mode synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive power rails requiring 3.5V–36V input, 5V fixed output (±2% accuracy), 28µA no-load quiescent current, and 98% max duty cycle during cold-crank transients. It serves as a primary voltage regulator in infotainment power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936RATEB/V+T datasheet, MAX16936RATEB/V+T pinout, MAX16936RATEB/V+T application, or MAX16936RATEB/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC-Q100 qualification, 220kHz–2.2MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, FPWM/skip mode control via FSYNC, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, and 42V load-dump protection.

Technical Context

The MAX16936RATEB/V+T implements a current-mode control architecture with internal slope compensation, enabling stable operation across wide VIN and VOUT ranges. Its dual supply inputs (SUP and SUPSW) decouple logic and power-switch biasing, supporting undervoltage transient resilience down to 3.5V while maintaining regulation via 98% duty cycle capability.

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 device supports three operating modes-skip, forced-PWM, and external sync-selected via FSYNC, with automatic LX slew-rate adjustment (4ns/8ns) based on fSW >/< 1.1MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936RATEB/V+T is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed thermal pad (EP), optimized for automotive PCB layouts requiring high thermal reliability and compact footprint (5.0mm × 4.4mm).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16938RATEB/V+T, the MAX16936RATEB/V+T provides higher OVP trip margin for enhanced system robustness; compared with LM61480RQWR, it delivers automotive-grade reliability, integrated sequencing, and multi-device synchronization-critical for safety-compliant vehicle electronics.

Availability

MAX16936RATEB/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS domain controllers, and body electronics requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX16936RATEB/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 high-reliability analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets, with deep expertise in power management and harsh-environment operation.

The MAX16936/MAX16938 product line targets automotive DC-DC conversion with emphasis on cold-crank resilience, low-IQ standby, and EMI-controlled switching-specifically engineered for infotainment, telematics, and ADAS power architectures.

FAQ

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

The MAX16936RATEB/V+T features a factory-set fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line. No external feedback resistors are needed-the FB pin is internally connected to the BIAS regulator. This simplifies design for applications requiring a stable 5V rail, such as MCU I/O or USB peripheral power. The MAX16936RATEB/V+T does not support adjustable output; for 1V–10V programmability, the MAX16936AATEB/V+T variant must be selected.

How does the MAX16936RATEB/V+T handle cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16936RATEB/V+T sustains regulation during cold-crank events (VIN dropping to 3.5V) by operating at up to 98% duty cycle, minimizing dropout. Its dual-supply architecture (SUP and SUPSW) isolates logic and power-switch biasing, ensuring stable internal operation even as input collapses. The device maintains 5V output within specification down to 3.5V input, and its 28µA quiescent current prevents excessive battery drain during extended cranking.

Can the MAX16936RATEB/V+T be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes, the MAX16936RATEB/V+T accepts an external clock signal on the FSYNC pin, supporting synchronization within ±20% of its internal frequency (e.g., 1.76–2.64MHz for a 2.2MHz internal setting). The device locks to the external clock within one cycle and reverts to internal oscillation after two missing cycles. When synchronized, spread-spectrum modulation is disabled, but any modulation present on the external clock passes through to SYNCOUT.

What thermal performance can be expected from the MAX16936RATEB/V+T in a typical automotive layout?

In a standard 4-layer PCB with 2oz copper and the EP pad connected to a 400mm² PGND plane via eight 0.3mm vias, the MAX16936RATEB/V+T achieves a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 38.3°C/W (TSSOP-EP). At 2.5A load and 14V input, typical power dissipation is ~1.2W, resulting in ~46°C junction rise above ambient-well below the 175°C shutdown threshold. Derating begins above +70°C ambient at 26.1mW/°C.

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

Yes, the MAX16936RATEB/V+T requires an external Schottky diode connected from LX to PGND. Although it integrates high-side and low-side MOSFETs, the diode improves light-load efficiency by providing a low-VF path during discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) and enhances reliability during startup and fault conditions. The diode is mandatory per the datasheet and cannot be omitted-even in forced-PWM mode-due to internal architecture constraints.