Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936SATEB/V+

Overview

MAX16936SATEB/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 AEC-Q100 qualification, and operates across –40°C to +125°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936SATEB/V+ datasheet, MAX16936SATEB/V+ pinout, MAX16936SATEB/V+ application, or MAX16936SATEB/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 98% max duty cycle for cold-crank resilience, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, spread-spectrum EMI reduction (factory-enabled), 42V load-dump protection, and compatibility with external Schottky diode for efficiency optimization in automotive navigation and radio head units.

Technical Context

The MAX16936SATEB/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 independent bias and switch rail management during undervoltage transients.

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 PGOOD output asserts at 95% VFB and deasserts at 92% VFB with 10–50µs debounce, supporting precise power-supply sequencing in multi-rail systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936SATEB/V+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed thermal pad (EP), optimized for automotive thermal cycling and board-level reliability. The EP must be soldered to a large contiguous copper ground plane but cannot serve as the sole PGND connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1 and TPS54560QDGQRQ1, the MAX16936SATEB/V+ delivers superior automotive readiness through factory-enabled spread-spectrum EMI reduction, 180° SYNCOUT for seamless interleaving, and guaranteed 28µA quiescent current-critical for always-on telematics and ADAS subsystems where power budget and electromagnetic compatibility are tightly constrained.

Availability

MAX16936SATEB/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive navigation systems, radio head units, and distributed industrial control panels requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and extended temperature operation.

Supply support for MAX16936SATEB/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, designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16936/MAX16938 product line targets automotive power conversion with emphasis on cold-crank resilience, low-IQ standby, EMI control, and AEC-Q100 reliability-specifically engineered for infotainment, ADAS, and body electronics.

FAQ

What is the fixed output voltage of the MAX16936SATEB/V+ and how is it set?

The MAX16936SATEB/V+ provides a fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line. This is achieved by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin, which internally references a 1.0V bandgap. No external resistors are needed, simplifying layout and improving regulation stability. The MAX16936SATEB/V+ does not support 3.3V fixed output-only the MAX16936/38B/V+ variants do.

Does the MAX16936SATEB/V+ require an external Schottky diode, and why?

Yes, the MAX16936SATEB/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 light-load regulation-not for full synchronous rectification across the entire load range. The Schottky diode ensures reliable operation during heavy loads and transient conditions where the internal low-side FET alone would cause excessive conduction loss or thermal stress.

How does the MAX16936SATEB/V+ handle automotive cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16936SATEB/V+ supports cold-crank operation down to 3.5V input by maintaining up to 98% duty cycle, allowing continued regulation even when battery voltage drops sharply during engine start. Its dual SUP/SUPSW inputs isolate bias and switch rails, and the BIAS LDO remains functional to sustain control logic. Combined with 42V load-dump tolerance and AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualification, the MAX16936SATEB/V+ is validated for direct connection to automotive 12V/24V batteries without additional protection circuitry.

What is the purpose of the SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16936SATEB/V+?

The SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16936SATEB/V+ provides an open-drain 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to the internal oscillator. This enables precise interleaving of two or more MAX16936SATEB/V+ converters to reduce input/output ripple current, lower required capacitance, and distribute thermal load. Unlike generic sync outputs, SYNCOUT's fixed phase inversion eliminates need for external delay networks or inverters in cascaded power supply designs.

Is spread-spectrum modulation enabled on the MAX16936SATEB/V+ and how does it affect EMI?

Yes, spread-spectrum modulation is factory-enabled on the MAX16936SATEB/V+. It dithers the switching frequency by ±6% around the programmed FOSC value using a triangular waveform (110µs period at 2.2MHz). This spreads energy across a wider bandwidth, reducing peak radiated emissions by up to 10dB compared to fixed-frequency operation-directly helping meet CISPR 25 Class 5 requirements in automotive EMC testing without modifying PCB layout or adding filtering components.