Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16939ATESA/V+

Overview

MAX16939ATESA/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a 3.5A, 36V input current-mode synchronous step-down converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive power rails requiring 5V fixed output (±2% accuracy), 28µA no-load quiescent current, 98% max duty cycle, and AEC-Q100 qualification. It powers infotainment head units under cold-crank conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16939ATESA/V+ datasheet, MAX16939ATESA/V+ pinout, MAX16939ATESA/V+ application, or MAX16939ATESA/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5V fixed output, 220kHz–2.2MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, FPWM/skip mode control via FSYNC, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for cascaded supplies, and tight overvoltage protection (105% threshold).

Technical Context

The MAX16939ATESA/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 optimize EMI while preserving efficiency. Its dual supply inputs (SUP/SUPSW) support 3.5V–36V operation with 42V transient tolerance.

It integrates a 5V BIAS linear regulator (4.7–5.4V output, ±200mV line regulation), power-good monitoring (95%/92% VFB thresholds), and thermal shutdown at +175°C with 15°C hysteresis. The device operates across –40°C to +125°C and features spread-spectrum modulation (±6%) when not synchronized externally.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16939ATESA/V+ is housed in a 16-pin 5mm × 5mm TQFN-EP package with exposed pad connected to PGND for thermal management. Pin count, layout, and thermal metrics match JEDEC MS-012AC standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16935ATESA/V+, MAX16939ATESA/V+ provides tighter overvoltage protection critical for USB-powered peripherals, while LM61480QRNXTQ1 trades integrated bias capability for lower quiescent current-making MAX16939ATESA/V+ optimal for compact, self-contained automotive 5V supplies.

Availability

MAX16939ATESA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX16939ATESA/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 high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets, emphasizing reliability, integration, and power efficiency.

The MAX16939 belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for harsh-environment DC-DC conversion in infotainment, body electronics, and ADAS subsystems with stringent EMI and thermal requirements.

FAQ

What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX16939ATESA/V+?

The MAX16939ATESA/V+ provides a fixed 5V output with ±2% accuracy over temperature and line. This is achieved by connecting the FB pin directly to the internal BIAS regulator (5V), eliminating external feedback resistors. The device does not support factory-programmed 3.3V output-only MAX16935 variants offer that option. For adjustable outputs (1V–10V), an external resistor divider must be used per the datasheet formula.

How does the MAX16939ATESA/V+ handle cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16939ATESA/V+ supports cold-crank operation down to 3.5V input with up to 98% duty cycle, maintaining regulated 5V output even when battery voltage dips to 4.5V during engine cranking. Its dual-supply architecture (SUP/SUPSW) isolates logic and power stages, and the integrated BIAS LDO remains active to sustain internal control circuitry-ensuring uninterrupted operation without brownout resets.

What is the purpose of the SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16939ATESA/V+?

The SYNCOUT pin on the MAX16939ATESA/V+ delivers an open-drain 180° out-of-phase clock signal relative to the internal oscillator. When two MAX16939ATESA/V+ devices are cascaded-with one SYNCOUT connected to the other's FSYNC-their switching phases are interleaved. This reduces input capacitor RMS current by ~30% and lowers peak EMI emissions, enabling cleaner power delivery in multi-rail automotive systems.

Does the MAX16939ATESA/V+ require an external Schottky diode?

Yes, the MAX16939ATESA/V+ requires an external Schottky diode connected between LX and AGND. Although it integrates both high-side and low-side MOSFETs, the diode improves light-load efficiency and supports full 3.5A output capability. The datasheet specifies typical use with a 3A/40V Schottky (e.g., PMEG4005AEA); omitting it risks excessive conduction loss and thermal stress during discontinuous conduction mode.

What protection features are built into the MAX16939ATESA/V+?

The MAX16939ATESA/V+ includes cycle-by-cycle current limiting (6.2A peak), thermal shutdown at +175°C with auto-recovery, overvoltage protection at 105% of nominal output (5.25V), and undervoltage lockout on the BIAS rail (3.15V threshold). It also features a power-good output (PGOOD) with 95%/92% hysteresis for precise supply sequencing-no external supervision IC needed.