Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16938ATERB/V+T

Overview

MAX16938ATERB/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5A current-mode synchronous step-down converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive power supplies operating from 3.5V to 36V input. It delivers fixed 5V/3.3V or adjustable 1V–10V output with ±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 is AEC-Q100 qualified for navigation head units and RF-sensitive systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16938ATERB/V+T datasheet, MAX16938ATERB/V+T pinout, MAX16938ATERB/V+T application, or MAX16938ATERB/V+T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed automotive-grade specifications (including 42V load-dump protection, -40°C to +125°C operation, and 98% max duty cycle), and real-world selection guidance for point-of-load and distributed DC systems.

Technical Context

The MAX16938ATERB/V+T implements current-mode control with cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection and automatic LX slew-rate adjustment-4ns rise time above 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 98% duty cycle capability during undervoltage transients.

It integrates a 5V BIAS linear regulator (4.7–5.4V output, 10mA capable) that powers internal circuitry until OUT reaches regulation, then transitions to OUT-supplied biasing. The FSYNC pin selects between skip mode (FSYNC = AGND) and FPWM mode (FSYNC = BIAS or external clock), enabling EMI-optimized operation in RF transceiver power rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16938ATERB/V+T is housed in a 16-pin TQFN-EP package (5mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed pad for thermal dissipation. Pin mapping is identical to the MAX16938 family and validated per Maxim's official pinout documentation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480RQWR and TPS62933RTER, MAX16938ATERB/V+T uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, integrated 5V BIAS LDO, 180° SYNCOUT for interleaving, and 42V load-dump tolerance-making it the only drop-in solution for safety-critical automotive PoL designs requiring guaranteed performance across temperature and transients.

Availability

MAX16938ATERB/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive navigation systems, ADAS camera modules, and industrial CAN nodes requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant performance.

Supply support for MAX16938ATERB/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) 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 high-efficiency, low-IQ, AEC-Q100-qualified buck regulators with integrated MOSFETs, robust transient handling, and advanced EMI mitigation features.

FAQ

What is the maximum duty cycle supported by the MAX16938ATERB/V+T?

The MAX16938ATERB/V+T supports up to 98% maximum duty cycle, enabling operation during severe undervoltage transients such as cold crank events where input voltage drops near the output level. This behavior is achieved by forcing the low-side MOSFET on for 150ns every 12µs once off-time falls below 25ns, ensuring minimal dropout and uninterrupted power delivery to downstream loads.

Does the MAX16938ATERB/V+T require an external Schottky diode?

Yes, the MAX16938ATERB/V+T requires an external Schottky diode connected between LX and PGND-even though it integrates high-side and low-side MOSFETs. The diode supports continuous conduction mode during light-load skip mode and improves efficiency across the full load range, particularly at low output voltages and high input-to-output ratios.

How does the FSYNC pin affect operating mode in the MAX16938ATERB/V+T?

The FSYNC pin determines whether the MAX16938ATERB/V+T operates in skip mode or forced-PWM (FPWM) mode: connecting FSYNC to AGND enables skip mode for highest light-load efficiency, while connecting it to BIAS or an external clock enables FPWM mode to maintain constant switching frequency and minimize EMI in RF-sensitive applications like V2X transceivers.

What is the purpose of the SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16938ATERB/V+T?

The SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16938ATERB/V+T provides an open-drain 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to the internal oscillator. This enables precise interleaving of two or more MAX16938ATERB/V+T devices to reduce input/output ripple current, lower EMI peaks, and increase total system power capacity without increasing individual device stress.

Is the MAX16938ATERB/V+T pin-compatible with the MAX16936 series?

Yes, the MAX16938ATERB/V+T shares identical pinout, package, and electrical interface with the MAX16936 series-including all 16 pins and exposed pad. However, the MAX16938 offers tighter overvoltage protection (105% vs. 107% for MAX16936), making it preferred for applications requiring stricter output voltage clamping during transients.