Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16962RATEA/V+T

Overview

MAX16962RATEA/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 4A, 2.2MHz synchronous step-down DC-DC converter designed for automotive point-of-load regulation. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V input, delivers 0.8V–3.6V adjustable output, achieves ±2.6% output voltage accuracy over load/line/temperature, features integrated low-R_DS(ON) MOSFETs, and includes open-drain power-good (PG) with 16ms delay - ideal for infotainment power rails in vehicles.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16962RATEA/V+T datasheet, MAX16962RATEA/V+T pinout, MAX16962RATEA/V+T application, or MAX16962RATEA/V+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 4A continuous output capability, 2.2MHz fixed-frequency PWM/SKIP mode operation, -40°C to +125°C automotive qualification, TQFN-EP 4mm × 4mm package, and factory-configured SYNC-as-input functionality with spread-spectrum disabled.

Technical Context

The MAX16962RATEA/V+T implements a current-mode synchronous buck architecture with dual LX outputs (LX1/LX2) paralleled for 4A total current delivery. Its internal 2.2MHz oscillator supports forced-PWM or SKIP mode via the PWM pin, and the SYNC pin is factory-set as an input accepting 1.7–2.4MHz external clocks.

It integrates high-side and low-side MOSFETs with typical R_DS(ON) of 34mΩ (pMOS) and 25mΩ (nMOS), uses an 800mV internal reference for feedback regulation, and provides soft-start (8ms), overcurrent protection (6.8A typ current-limit threshold), and thermal shutdown at +165°C with 15°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16962RATEA/V+T is housed in a thermally enhanced 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin TQFN-EP package (exposed pad soldered to GND plane). The EP pad is mandatory for thermal performance and must not serve as sole ground connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16962RATEA/V+T, MAX20004AATP/V+T trades 0.5A output and SYNC support for lower IQ, while TPS62933RTER matches current capability but lacks automotive qualification - making MAX16962RATEA/V+T the only option combining 4A, 2.2MHz, SYNC input, and full -40°C to +125°C operation.

Availability

MAX16962RATEA/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and industrial telematics gateways requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and AEC-Q100 compliance.

Supply support for MAX16962RATEA/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 MAX16962RATEA/V+T belongs to Maxim's automotive-grade DC-DC converter family, engineered specifically for demanding point-of-load regulation in infotainment, ADAS, and body electronics - balancing high current, high frequency, and functional safety readiness.

FAQ

What is the function of the SYNC pin on the MAX16962RATEA/V+T?

The SYNC pin on the MAX16962RATEA/V+T is factory-configured as an input (per "RATE" suffix in Selector Guide), accepting an external 1.7MHz–2.4MHz clock signal to synchronize switching frequency with other system regulators. This reduces beat frequencies and simplifies EMI filtering in multi-rail automotive systems. It does not operate as an output in this variant.

Can the MAX16962RATEA/V+T deliver 4A continuously in a 4mm × 4mm TQFN package?

Yes, the MAX16962RATEA/V+T is specified for 4A continuous output in its 4mm × 4mm TQFN-EP package. This is achieved by paralleling LX1 and LX2 with dedicated PGND1/PGND2 paths and requires proper PCB layout: exposed pad soldered to ≥4 thermal vias tied to a solid GND plane, plus short, wide power loops. Thermal derating applies above +70°C ambient.

What is the purpose of the PV pin on the MAX16962RATEA/V+T?

The PV pin on the MAX16962RATEA/V+T supplies the internal bias LDO and must be bypassed with ≥1µF ceramic capacitor plus a 10Ω series resistor to suppress noise coupling into control circuitry. Unlike PV1/PV2, PV is not a power path - it sources only internal logic and reference circuitry, so its decoupling is critical for loop stability and noise immunity.

How does the MAX16962RATEA/V+T handle overcurrent conditions?

The MAX16962RATEA/V+T employs peak-current limiting with a typical 6.8A threshold. During overload or short-circuit, the high-side MOSFET remains on until inductor current reaches the limit, then the low-side MOSFET turns on to discharge current. This cycle repeats until fault clears. It also includes hiccup-mode behavior under sustained overload to limit power dissipation and junction temperature rise.

Is the MAX16962RATEA/V+T pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX16962 family?

Yes, all MAX16962 variants - including MAX16962RATEA/V+T - share identical 16-pin TQFN-EP and TSSOP-EP footprints and pinouts. Differences lie in factory-programmed options (SYNC I/O direction, spread-spectrum enable, PG delay), not physical connectivity. Layouts designed for one MAX16962 variant can accommodate others without modification.