Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16938ATESA/V+
- Part No.:
- MAX16938ATESA/V+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 16-WQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX16938ATESA/V+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ/1V 2.5A 16TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
MAX16938ATESA/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5A, 3.5V–36V input synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, fixed 5V output (±2% accuracy), 28µA quiescent current, and AEC-Q100 qualification - designed for automotive power rails in navigation head units and RF-sensitive infotainment systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX16938ATESA/V+ datasheet, MAX16938ATESA/V+ pinout, MAX16938ATESA/V+ application, or MAX16938ATESA/V+ equivalent, key selection factors include its 98% max duty cycle for cold-crank support, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, tight 105% overvoltage protection threshold, and FSYNC-controlled skip/FPWM mode selection to meet EMI requirements in automotive RF transceiver power domains.
Technical Context
The MAX16938ATESA/V+ implements current-mode control with resistor-programmable switching frequency (220kHz–2.2MHz) and supports external clock synchronization via FSYNC. Its dual supply inputs (SUP/SUPSW) enable robust operation during 42V load-dump events and down to 3.5V cold-crank conditions.
It integrates a 5V BIAS LDO, open-drain PGOOD with 95%/92% regulation thresholds, and automatic LX slew-rate adjustment (4ns at >1.1MHz) to balance EMI and efficiency. Overvoltage protection triggers at 105% of FB voltage, distinguishing it from the MAX16936's 107% threshold.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 3.5V to 36V - supports automotive battery transients including cold crank (≥3.5V) and load dump (up to 42V with protection) |
| Output Voltage | Fixed 5V ±2% - eliminates external feedback resistors; regulated at FB pin with 1.0V reference |
| Max Output Current | 2.5A continuous - limited by internal MOSFET RON_H (220mΩ max) and thermal design in TSSOP-EP package |
| Quiescent Current | 28µA at no load - enables always-on functionality in automotive body electronics without battery drain |
| Switching Frequency | 220kHz to 2.2MHz - set by external RFOSC resistor; supports EMI optimization and small magnetics |
| OVP Threshold | 105% of VFB - tighter than MAX16936 (107%), reducing output overshoot during line/load transients |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +125°C - qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 0 for under-hood and head-unit deployment |
Pinout & Package
MAX16938ATESA/V+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed thermal pad (EP) connected to PGND. The package supports high-power dissipation (2088.8mW at +70°C) and requires multilayer PCB layout with thermal vias under EP for junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 38.3°C/W.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (SYNCOUT) | Open-drain clock output | 180° out-of-phase signal relative to internal oscillator - enables interleaved operation with second MAX16938 for higher current or lower ripple |
| 2 (FSYNC) | Mode control & sync input | Logic-selectable: AGND = skip mode; BIAS/ext clock = FPWM; enables EMI control and external frequency lock |
| 3 (FOSC) | Frequency programming node | Resistor-to-AGND sets fSW; 12kΩ yields 2.2MHz - determines inductor size, core loss, and gate drive losses |
| 4 (OUT) | Power output & internal supply | Delivers regulated 5V; powers internal circuitry when VOUT = 3–5V - reduces need for external bias rail |
| 5 (FB) | Feedback reference input | Connected to BIAS for fixed 5V; monitors output via 1.0V internal reference - enables ±2% accuracy without divider |
| 6 (COMP) | Error amplifier output | Connect RC compensation network here - stabilizes loop response across input/output/load variations |
| 7 (BIAS) | Integrated 5V LDO output | Powers analog blocks until VOUT regulates; shuts off once output is stable - saves external LDO in space-constrained designs |
| 8 (AGND) | Analog ground reference | Separate from PGND to minimize noise coupling into feedback and error amp - critical for stability |
| 9 (BST) | Bootstrap supply for high-side driver | 0.1µF capacitor between BST and LX provides gate drive voltage - enables N-channel high-side switch operation |
| 10 (EN) | Enable input | 3.3V–42V compatible logic input - allows direct connection to KL30 or CAN transceiver INH pin for system-level power sequencing |
| 11 (SUP) | Main logic supply input | Powers internal LDO and logic; bypassed with 4.7µF ceramic cap - filters noise on control circuitry supply |
| 12 (SUPSW) | Switch supply input | Powers high-side MOSFET driver; bypassed with 0.1µF + 4.7µF ceramics - ensures clean gate drive under transient loads |
| 13–14 (LX) | Switch node | Connects to Schottky diode cathode and inductor - high dv/dt node requiring tight layout and ground plane isolation |
| 15 (PGND) | Power ground return | High-current return path for LX, SUPSW, and diode - must be low-inductance and separate from AGND plane |
| 16 (PGOOD) | Open-drain power-good flag | Active-low signal asserts when VOUT ≥ 95% of regulation - used for downstream supply enable or MCU reset sequencing |
| EP | Exposed thermal pad | Must connect to large-area PGND copper pour with ≥6 thermal vias - primary heat dissipation path; not functional ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 2.5A high-side/low-side MOSFETs | Eliminates external power switches and reduces BOM count; RON_H ≤ 220mΩ enables high efficiency at 5V/2.5A |
| 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT | Enables two MAX16938 devices to operate interleaved - cuts output ripple current by ~50% and reduces input/output capacitor size |
| Tight 105% overvoltage protection | Reduces output overshoot during fast load removal or line transients - improves reliability of downstream 5V logic and RF ICs |
| Automatic LX slew-rate control | Adjusts gate drive rise time (4ns at >1.1MHz, 8ns at <1.1MHz) - optimizes EMI vs. conduction loss trade-off across full frequency range |
| AEC-Q100 Grade 0 qualification | Validated for −40°C to +125°C operation with 42V load-dump immunity - meets automotive power supply requirements without derating |
Applications
| Navigation Head Units | RF Transceiver Power Rails |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering display controllers, GPS modules, and audio DSPs in automotive infotainment head units subject to cold crank (≤3.5V) and load dump (≤42V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 5V buck regulator delivering 2.5A with 98% duty cycle capability to maintain regulation during undervoltage transients. Use Value: Eliminates need for external pre-regulator or discrete MOSFETs; AEC-Q100 qualification ensures reliability in harsh automotive environments. |
Use Scenario: Supplying clean, low-noise 5V power to cellular/V2X or Wi-Fi/BT transceivers where EMI must comply with CISPR 25 Class 5 limits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-frequency forced-PWM (FPWM) regulator synchronized via FSYNC to avoid modulation sidebands in sensitive RF bands. Use Value: Spread-spectrum option (S-version) and 180° SYNCOUT enable multi-rail interleaving - reduces peak EMI by up to 6dB. |
| Body Control Modules (BCM) | ADAS Camera Power Supplies |
Use Scenario: Always-on 5V rail for microcontrollers, CAN transceivers, and sensor interfaces in BCMs requiring ultra-low quiescent current. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby-mode regulator drawing only 28µA from battery - extends vehicle sleep-mode duration without parasitic drain. Use Value: EN pin compatible with 3.3V logic and 42V automotive rails enables direct connection to KL30 or CAN INH - simplifies power sequencing. |
Use Scenario: Powering image sensors and ISP processors in rear-view or surround-view cameras mounted near engine compartments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-temp-rated (−40°C to +125°C) buck converter with thermal shutdown recovery - sustains operation during prolonged engine heat soak. Use Value: Tight 105% OVP prevents damage to expensive CMOS image sensors during hot-swap or short-circuit events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX16936ATESA/V+ | Same pinout and package; 107% OVP threshold (vs. 105%); no spread-spectrum option available | Suitable for non-RF applications where tighter OVP is not required; slightly higher output overshoot during transients | Select MAX16936ATESA/V+ only if OVP margin >2% is acceptable and spread-spectrum EMI reduction is unnecessary |
| LM61480QRTWRQ1 | 3.5V–36V input, 5V fixed, 3.5A output; 15µA IQ; no SYNCOUT or BIAS LDO; uses external MOSFETs | Higher current capability but requires external high-side/low-side FETs and gate drivers - increases BOM and layout complexity | Choose LM61480QRTWRQ1 only when >2.5A output or lower IQ is mandatory and board area permits discrete FET solution |
Compared with MAX16936ATESA/V+, the MAX16938ATESA/V+ offers tighter overvoltage protection and factory-enabled spread-spectrum for EMI reduction, while the LM61480QRTWRQ1 trades integration for higher current and lower quiescent current - making MAX16938ATESA/V+ optimal for space-constrained, RF-sensitive automotive 5V rails.
Availability
MAX16938ATESA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive navigation systems, RF transceiver power supplies, and body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX16938ATESA/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 MAX16938 belongs to Maxim's automotive-grade power management portfolio, engineered specifically for demanding 12V/24V vehicle electrical systems - emphasizing cold-crank resilience, load-dump robustness, and EMI control in safety-critical ECUs.
FAQ
What is the maximum duty cycle supported by the MAX16938ATESA/V+?
The MAX16938ATESA/V+ supports a maximum duty cycle of 98%, enabling regulation during severe undervoltage transients such as automotive cold crank (down to 3.5V input). This is achieved by forcing the low-side MOSFET on for 150ns every 12µs when off-time drops below 25ns - maintaining output stability without external assist circuitry. The 98% limit is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table and validated across −40°C to +125°C.
How does the MAX16938ATESA/V+ differ from the MAX16936ATESA/V+ in overvoltage protection?
The MAX16938ATESA/V+ features a tighter overvoltage protection (OVP) threshold of 105% of the FB reference voltage, whereas the MAX16936ATESA/V+ triggers OVP at 107%. This 2% difference reduces output overshoot during fast load removal or line transients - critical for protecting sensitive 5V logic and RF components. Both parts share identical pinout, package, and functional architecture except for this OVP setting.
Can the MAX16938ATESA/V+ operate without an external Schottky diode?
No - the MAX16938ATESA/V+ requires an external Schottky diode connected between LX and PGND, even though it integrates both high-side and low-side MOSFETs. The diode supports the full 2.5A load range and improves light-load efficiency. This requirement is explicitly stated in the General Description and Pin Descriptions sections of the datasheet and applies regardless of operating mode (skip or FPWM).
What is the purpose of the BIAS pin on the MAX16938ATESA/V+?
The BIAS pin on the MAX16938ATESA/V+ outputs a regulated 5V (4.7V–5.4V) linear regulator voltage that powers internal analog circuitry. When the output voltage is set between 3V and 5.5V, BIAS operates only until VOUT reaches regulation - then it shuts off and OUT supplies internal circuitry. BIAS must be bypassed with a 1µF ceramic capacitor to AGND, and connecting FB to BIAS configures the device for fixed 5V output.
Is the MAX16938ATESA/V+ pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX16936/MAX16938 family?
Yes - the MAX16938ATESA/V+ shares identical pinout, package (16-pin TSSOP-EP), and footprint with all variants in the MAX16936/MAX16938 family, including MAX16936ATESA/V+, MAX16938AETP/V+, and MAX16938AETE/V+. This allows drop-in replacement for different output voltages (3.3V/5V), OVP thresholds, or spread-spectrum options without PCB redesign - provided thermal and layout constraints are met.
MAX16938ATESA/V+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-WQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable (Fixed)
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 3.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 36V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 1V (5V)
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 10V
- Current - Output:
- 2.5A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 220kHz ~ 2.2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TQFN (5x5)
MAX16938ATESA/V+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX16938ATESA/V+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX16938ATESA/V+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX16938ATESA/V+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX16938ATESA/V+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX16938ATESA/V+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX16938ATESA/V+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX16938ATESA/V+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX16938ATESA/V+?
MAX16938ATESA/V+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX16938ATESA/V+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX16938ATESA/V+?
For technical support, including MAX16938ATESA/V+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX16938ATESA/V+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX16938ATESA/V+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX16938ATESA/V+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX16938ATESA/V+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX16938ATESA/V+?
All MAX16938ATESA/V+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX16938ATESA/V+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX16938ATESA/V+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX16938ATESA/V+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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