Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936RAUEA/V+

Overview

MAX16936RAUEA/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 up to 2.2MHz. It operates in forced-PWM mode under light load and supports 98% duty cycle during cold-crank transients.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ datasheet, MAX16936RAUEA/V+ pinout, MAX16936RAUEA/V+ application, or MAX16936RAUEA/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include AEC-Q100 qualification, 42V load-dump protection, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and compatibility with external Schottky diode for efficiency optimization in automotive navigation and radio head units.

Technical Context

The MAX16936RAUEA/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 balance EMI and efficiency. Its dual supply inputs (SUP and SUPSW) enable robust operation across wide input ranges while maintaining internal bias regulation via the 5V BIAS LDO.

It features three operating modes: skip mode (FSYNC = AGND), forced-PWM (FSYNC = BIAS or external clock), and external synchronization (FSYNC driven by 1.8–2.6MHz clock). Overvoltage protection triggers at 107% of FB voltage, thermal shutdown activates at +175°C with 15°C hysteresis, and PGOOD monitors output within ±3% of regulation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936RAUEA/V+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. The EP must be connected to PGND via a large-area copper pour; it is not a standalone ground connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16938RAUEA/V+, the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ offers higher OVP threshold for relaxed fault tolerance, while versus LM61480QRTWRQ1 it delivers unique 180° SYNCOUT and integrated BIAS LDO-enabling simpler, more compact, and EMI-optimized automotive power trees.

Availability

MAX16936RAUEA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive navigation systems, radio head units, distributed DC power systems, and point-of-load regulation requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX16936RAUEA/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/MAX16938 product line was designed specifically for automotive power conversion-delivering robust 36V-input buck regulation with AEC-Q100 qualification, load-dump resilience, and advanced EMI mitigation features.

FAQ

What is the fixed output voltage of the MAX16936RAUEA/V+?

The MAX16936RAUEA/V+ provides a factory-configured 5V fixed output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line regulation. This is achieved by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin; no external resistor divider is required. The device also supports adjustable outputs from 1V to 10V using an external feedback network, but the RAUEA/V+ variant is specifically calibrated for 5V operation.

Does the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ require an external Schottky diode?

Yes, the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ requires an external Schottky diode connected between the LX pin and PGND. Although it integrates both high-side and low-side MOSFETs, the diode improves efficiency-particularly at light loads-and supports reliable operation across the full 2.5A output range. The diode's forward voltage and reverse recovery characteristics directly impact thermal performance and dropout behavior.

How does the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ handle cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16936RAUEA/V+ handles cold-crank conditions by operating up to 98% duty cycle, allowing regulation even when input voltage drops as low as 3.5V. Its dual-supply architecture (SUP and SUPSW) ensures internal bias remains stable while the power stage sustains output. Combined with 28µA quiescent current and AEC-Q100 qualification, this enables uninterrupted operation during engine start-up in 12V automotive systems.

Can the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes, the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ can be synchronized to an external clock applied to the FSYNC pin. It accepts frequencies from 1.8MHz to 2.6MHz (±20% of internal FOSC), with synchronization achieved within one cycle. When external sync is active, internal spread-spectrum modulation is disabled-but any modulation present on the external clock passes through to SYNCOUT, preserving system-level EMI control.

What thermal protection features does the MAX16936RAUEA/V+ include?

The MAX16936RAUEA/V+ includes thermal shutdown that activates at +175°C (typical junction temperature) with 15°C hysteresis, enabling automatic recovery after cooling. Its TSSOP-EP package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 38.3°C/W (JEDEC 51 multilayer board), and the exposed pad must be soldered to a large PGND copper area. Thermal derating begins above +70°C ambient, with 26.1mW/°C reduction in power dissipation.