Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16956AUBD/V+T

Overview

MAX16956AUBD/V+T from Analog Devices is a 36V, 300mA synchronous buck DC-DC converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, fixed 5V output, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and 1.1µA quiescent current in skip mode-designed for automotive body ECUs operating from -40°C to +125°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16956AUBD/V+T datasheet, MAX16956AUBD/V+T pinout, MAX16956AUBD/V+T application, or MAX16956AUBD/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank dropout support (97% duty cycle), AEC-Q100 qualification, 2.1MHz switching frequency, RESET monitoring capability, and µMAX-EP 10-pin package compatibility.

Technical Context

The MAX16956AUBD/V+T uses current-mode PWM control with integrated slope compensation and load-line architecture to reduce required output capacitance. It features internal transconductance error amplification and cycle-by-cycle peak-current limiting without external compensation.

It supports dual operation modes: forced-PWM (constant 2.1MHz) and skip mode (ultra-low IQ), selected via the MODE pin. The device integrates a 5V BIAS LDO, undervoltage lockout (3.2V threshold), and open-drain RESET output with 92%/90% VOUT hysteresis for power-good monitoring.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX16956AUBD/V+T is housed in a 3mm × 3mm, 10-pin µMAX® package with exposed pad (U10E+3 outline), optimized for thermal dissipation in space-constrained automotive PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar buck converter applications.

Compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1 and TPS62933QDBVRQ1, the MAX16956AUBD/V+T offers tighter integration (integrated BIAS, RESET, and fixed 5V), lower IQ in skip mode, and smaller µMAX footprint-making it optimal for cost- and space-sensitive automotive body electronics where 300mA suffices.

Availability

MAX16956AUBD/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body ECUs, infotainment subsystems, ADAS camera modules, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX16956AUBD/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

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving automotive, industrial, communications, and consumer markets with precision power, sensing, and connectivity solutions.

The MAX16956AUBD/V+T belongs to Analog Devices' automotive-grade power management portfolio, designed specifically for robust, low-EMI, ultra-low-IQ DC-DC conversion in harsh automotive environments-from body electronics to ADAS edge nodes.

FAQ

What is the function of the MODE pin on the MAX16956AUBD/V+T?

The MODE pin on the MAX16956AUBD/V+T selects between forced-PWM and skip operating modes. When tied to BIAS, it enables constant 2.1MHz switching for predictable EMI filtering; when grounded or left floating, it activates skip mode with 1.1µA quiescent current. This pin directly controls light-load efficiency and noise profile-critical for always-on automotive modules where standby power and EMI compliance are jointly constrained. The MAX16956AUBD/V+T's internal 1MΩ pulldown ensures default skip-mode behavior if unconnected.

Does the MAX16956AUBD/V+T require external compensation components?

No, the MAX16956AUBD/V+T does not require external compensation components. Its current-mode control architecture integrates slope compensation, transconductance error amplification, and peak-current sensing-eliminating the need for external RC networks typically used in voltage-mode controllers. This simplifies design, reduces BOM count, and improves layout robustness. All loop stability is achieved internally, verified across -40°C to +125°C and full input/output/load ranges. The MAX16956AUBD/V+T's fixed 5V output and integrated functions make it a true "plug-and-play" solution for automotive point-of-load applications.

How does the RESET output of the MAX16956AUBD/V+T behave during power-up and fault conditions?

The RESET output of the MAX16956AUBD/V+T is an open-drain signal that goes high-impedance (requires external pullup) when VOUT rises above 92% of nominal (4.6V for 5V output), and pulls low when VOUT falls below 90% (4.5V). During startup, RESET remains low until soft-start completes (~5.4ms), then asserts high if regulation is maintained. Under undervoltage or short-circuit, RESET deasserts within 12µs debounce time. This provides deterministic power-good signaling for MCU reset sequencing and fault logging. The MAX16956AUBD/V+T's RESET timing and thresholds are fully specified across temperature and load, ensuring reliable system-level supervision.

What is the significance of the "V+" suffix in MAX16956AUBD/V+T?

Within the MAX16956 family, the "V+" suffix in MAX16956AUBD/V+T denotes tape-and-reel packaging with moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 rating and RoHS-compliant finish-specifically indicating the part is supplied in antistatic carrier tape compatible with automated SMT placement. The "T" suffix confirms tape-and-reel format (e.g., 2500 pcs/reel), while "V+" distinguishes this variant from tray-packaged versions (e.g., MAX16956AUBD+). This packaging ensures handling integrity and solderability for high-volume automotive manufacturing. The MAX16956AUBD/V+T retains identical electrical and thermal specifications as non-V+ variants.

Can the MAX16956AUBD/V+T operate with input voltage below 3.5V?

No, the MAX16956AUBD/V+T is not specified to operate with input voltage below 3.5V. Its absolute minimum operating input is 3.5V, and undervoltage lockout triggers when BIAS drops below ~3.2V (rising threshold). While the device may briefly conduct during cold-crank dips, sustained operation below 3.5V risks regulation loss, RESET assertion, and undefined behavior. For sub-3.5V support, a pre-regulator or different topology is required. The MAX16956AUBD/V+T's 97% max duty cycle enables operation down to ~3.6V at 5V output-meeting typical automotive cold-crank specs-but does not extend functionality below its rated 3.5V minimum.