Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936SAUEB/V+T

Overview

MAX16936SAUEB/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 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 MAX16936SAUEB/V+T datasheet, MAX16936SAUEB/V+T pinout, MAX16936SAUEB/V+T application, or MAX16936SAUEB/V+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 98% max duty cycle for cold-crank resilience, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, 42V load-dump protection, and compatibility with external Schottky diodes for efficiency optimization in automotive navigation and radio head units.

Technical Context

The MAX16936SAUEB/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 balance EMI and efficiency. Its dual supply inputs (SUP and SUPSW) enable robust operation during undervoltage transients, while the internal 5V BIAS LDO powers control circuitry until output regulation is achieved.

Operation includes three frequency modes: skip mode (FSYNC = AGND), FPWM (FSYNC = BIAS or external clock), and external synchronization (FSYNC driven by 1.8–2.6MHz clock). Overvoltage protection triggers at 107% of FB voltage (MAX16936 variant), and thermal shutdown activates at +175°C with 15°C hysteresis for automatic recovery.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16936SAUEB/V+T is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed thermal pad (EP), optimized for automotive thermal management and PCB layout compactness.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16938SAUEB/V+T, the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T provides higher OVP threshold tolerance for less aggressive fault response; compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1, it delivers unique SYNCOUT phasing and factory spread-spectrum for superior EMI control in dense automotive layouts.

Availability

MAX16936SAUEB/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive navigation systems, infotainment head units, and ADAS camera power supplies requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX16936SAUEB/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-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets, emphasizing reliability, integration, and power efficiency.

The MAX16936/MAX16938 product line targets automotive power management, delivering high-voltage buck conversion with integrated MOSFETs, AEC-Q100 qualification, and features like SYNCOUT phasing and spread-spectrum EMI reduction for demanding ECU environments.

FAQ

What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T?

The MAX16936SAUEB/V+T is configured for fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy. This is achieved by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin. No external resistor divider is required for this configuration. The MAX16936SAUEB/V+T does not support 3.3V fixed output-only the MAX16936/38 variants marked with "B/V+" suffix provide that option. For adjustable outputs (1V–10V), an external resistive divider must be used between OUT and FB.

Does the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T require an external Schottky diode?

Yes, the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T requires an external Schottky diode connected between the LX pin and PGND. Although it integrates both high-side and low-side MOSFETs, the diode is necessary to support the full 2.5A load range and improve light-load efficiency. The diode's forward voltage and reverse recovery characteristics directly impact overall converter efficiency and thermal performance, especially in FPWM mode.

How does the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T handle cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16936SAUEB/V+T handles cold-crank conditions via its 98% maximum duty cycle and wide 3.5V–36V input range. When input voltage drops below the regulated output (e.g., to 4.5V during cranking), the controller extends on-time to maintain regulation. Its dual-supply architecture (SUP and SUPSW) ensures internal bias remains stable even as input sags, enabling uninterrupted operation down to 3.5V without dropout or reset.

What is the purpose of the SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T?

The SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T provides an open-drain 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to the internal oscillator. It enables precise interleaving with a second MAX16936/MAX16938 in cascaded or multiphase configurations-reducing input/output ripple, lowering capacitor RMS current, and increasing total system power capability without external timing circuitry.

Is spread-spectrum EMI reduction enabled by default on the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T?

Yes, spread-spectrum frequency modulation is factory-enabled on the MAX16936SAUEB/V+T. It modulates the switching frequency by ±6% around the programmed FOSC value using a 110µs triangular waveform at 2.2MHz (scaling proportionally at lower frequencies). This dithering reduces peak EMI emissions without requiring external components or configuration-though it is automatically disabled when FSYNC is driven by an external clock.