Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16962SATEA/V+

Overview

MAX16962SATEA/V+ 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, integrates dual low-R_DS(ON) MOSFETs, and features spread-spectrum modulation for EMI reduction in infotainment power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16962SATEA/V+ datasheet, MAX16962SATEA/V+ pinout, MAX16962SATEA/V+ application, or MAX16962SATEA/V+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its -40°C to +125°C automotive qualification, 16-pin TQFN-EP package with exposed pad, 26µA skip-mode quiescent current, open-drain power-good output with 16ms delay, and factory-programmable SYNC I/O supporting 1.7–2.4MHz synchronization.

Technical Context

The MAX16962SATEA/V+ implements a current-mode PWM controller with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs (R_DS(ON) = 34mΩ / 25mΩ typical), operating at a fixed 2.2MHz switching frequency with optional spread-spectrum modulation (±6% deviation). Its dual LX nodes (LX1/LX2) are internally paralleled to support 4A continuous output current with thermal derating per JEDEC 51-7 on multilayer PCBs.

Control logic includes a programmable PWM input to force fixed-frequency PWM mode or enable pulse-frequency modulation (SKIP) for light-load efficiency, an 8ms internal soft-start timer, and overcurrent protection triggered at 5.2A–8.5A depending on configuration. The device uses an external resistive divider on OUTS for output voltage setting and features a dedicated PG output with 90%/110% V_OUT thresholds and 28ns propagation delay.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16962SATEA/V+ is housed in a thermally enhanced 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin TQFN-EP package with exposed pad (EP) for improved heat dissipation. The package is RoHS-compliant and qualified for automotive operation from -40°C to +125°C ambient.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480QRTWRQ1 and TPS62933-Q1, the MAX16962SATEA/V+ uniquely combines 4A output, dual-LX paralleling, factory-programmable SYNC, and automotive-qualified spread-spectrum-making it optimal for high-density, EMI-critical automotive power domains where both current headroom and timing coherence are essential.

Availability

MAX16962SATEA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and industrial telematics gateways requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX16962SATEA/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 with emphasis on power efficiency and reliability.

The MAX16962SATEA/V+ belongs to Maxim's automotive-qualified DC-DC converter product line, engineered specifically for demanding point-of-load regulation in infotainment and ADAS subsystems where EMI, thermal density, and functional safety margins are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the MAX16962SATEA/V+?

The MAX16962SATEA/V+ supports 4A continuous output current when LX1 and LX2 are paralleled, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Maximum Output Current" (I_OUT = 4.4A typical) and Absolute Maximum Ratings (LX1/LX2 continuous RMS current = 4A). This rating assumes proper thermal management using the exposed pad (EP) on a multilayer PCB per JEDEC 51-7 standards.

Does the MAX16962SATEA/V+ support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, the MAX16962SATEA/V+ supports adjustable output voltage from 0.8V to 3.6V using an external resistive divider connected to the OUTS pin. As specified in the Applications Information section, R2 (OUTS-to-GND) must be ≤100kΩ, and R1 (V_OUT-to-OUTS) is calculated using V_OUTS = 800mV reference. The MAX16962SATEA/V+ variant uses the SATE option suffix, confirming factory configuration for external adjustment with spread-spectrum enabled.

What is the purpose of the SYNC pin on the MAX16962SATEA/V+, and how is it configured?

The SYNC pin on the MAX16962SATEA/V+ is a factory-programmable I/O that functions either as a synchronization input (accepting 1.7–2.4MHz external clock) or output (90° phase-shifted 2.2MHz signal). Per the Selector Guide, the "SATE" suffix indicates SYNC is configured as an input, enabling system-level timing coherence across multiple power rails without requiring additional clock buffers or level shifters.

How does the MAX16962SATEA/V+ handle thermal protection, and what is the shutdown threshold?

The MAX16962SATEA/V+ incorporates thermal overload protection that shuts down the controller when junction temperature exceeds +165°C (typical), as stated in the Thermal Overload section. After shutdown, the device remains off until the junction cools by 15°C hysteresis, then automatically resumes operation. This protects against sustained overloads or inadequate heatsinking in automotive enclosures where ambient temperatures reach +125°C.

What are the key differences between the MAX16962SATEA/V+ and the MAX16962RATEA/V+ variants?

The MAX16962SATEA/V+ and MAX16962RATEA/V+ differ primarily in spread-spectrum enablement and SYNC configuration: "SA" denotes spread-spectrum enabled with SYNC as input, while "RA" denotes spread-spectrum disabled with SYNC as input. Both share identical 4A capability, 2.2MHz base frequency, and -40°C to +125°C qualification, but only the MAX16962SATEA/V+ provides the ±6% frequency modulation needed for stringent CISPR 25 radiated emissions compliance.