Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16963RATEA/V+T

Overview

MAX16963RATEA/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual synchronous step-down DC-DC converter optimized for automotive postregulation and point-of-load applications. It operates from 2.7V to 5.5V input, delivers up to 1.5A per output at 0.8V–3.6V adjustable output voltage, and features fixed 2.2MHz PWM operation with skip mode for light-load efficiency. Its thermally enhanced 16-pin TQFN-EP package supports -40°C to +125°C operation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16963RATEA/V+T datasheet, MAX16963RATEA/V+T pinout, MAX16963RATEA/V+T application, or MAX16963RATEA/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-output current capability (1.5A each), factory-programmable SYNC I/O, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, independent enable inputs, and open-drain power-good outputs with 16ms timeout.

Technical Context

The MAX16963RATEA/V+T integrates two independent synchronous buck regulators sharing a common PV supply but with separate LX, PGND, PV1/PV2, EN1/EN2, and PG1/PG2 terminals. Each channel uses peak-current-mode control with internal 800mV feedback reference, 60ns minimum on-time, and programmable current-limit thresholds (1.95A–2.55A per channel).

It supports forced PWM (via PWM pin high) or skip-mode (PWM pin low) operation, with 2.2MHz ±10% oscillator accuracy over temperature. The SYNC pin is factory-configured as input (1.7–2.4MHz accept range), and spread-spectrum modulation is disabled in this variant - confirmed by "RATE" suffix in Selector Guide.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16963RATEA/V+T is housed in a 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin thermally enhanced TQFN-EP package (exposed pad soldered to GND plane). Pin mapping is identical to MAX16963 standard TQFN configuration per datasheet Figure 1 and Pin Descriptions table.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-output synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with MAX16963RATEA/V+T, MAX20004AATP/V+ offers higher single-rail current but no dual-channel independence, while TPS65023BRSBR provides triple fixed outputs at lower temperature grade - neither matches the MAX16963RATEA/V+T's combination of dual adjustable outputs, AEC-Q100 Grade 0 rating, and independent sequencing control.

Availability

MAX16963RATEA/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS, industrial PLCs, infotainment head units, and military comms requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.

Supply support for MAX16963RATEA/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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16963 product line delivers high-efficiency dual buck converters targeting automotive postregulation and point-of-load applications where small size, low EMI, and AEC-Q100 compliance are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the output voltage configuration of the MAX16963RATEA/V+T?

The MAX16963RATEA/V+T is an adjustable-output variant - it does not have factory-preset voltages. Output voltages for both channels are set externally using resistive dividers connected to OUTS1 and OUTS2 pins, enabling any value from 0.8V to 3.6V per channel. This is confirmed by the "RATE" suffix in the Selector Guide and absence of fixed-VOUT ordering codes.

Does the MAX16963RATEA/V+T support spread-spectrum frequency modulation?

No, the MAX16963RATEA/V+T does not support spread-spectrum modulation. The "RATE" suffix explicitly denotes the disabled spread-spectrum option per the Selector Guide. Only variants with "SATE", "SAUE", or "SATE" prefixes include enabled spread-spectrum functionality.

What is the function of the SYNC pin on the MAX16963RATEA/V+T?

On the MAX16963RATEA/V+T, the SYNC pin is factory-configured as an input. It accepts an external clock signal between 1.7MHz and 2.4MHz to synchronize the internal 2.2MHz oscillator, reducing beat frequencies and improving EMI performance in multi-converter systems - as specified in the Pin Descriptions and Selector Guide.

How is power sequencing managed on the MAX16963RATEA/V+T?

The MAX16963RATEA/V+T supports independent power sequencing via dedicated EN1 and EN2 inputs, each with logic-level compatibility (2.4V min high threshold) and internal 100kΩ pulldown resistors. This allows staggered turn-on of the two output rails - for example, enabling VOUT1 before VOUT2 - which is essential for processors with strict supply ramp requirements.

What protection features are integrated into the MAX16963RATEA/V+T?

The MAX16963RATEA/V+T integrates overcurrent protection (cycle-by-cycle current limiting with 1.95A–2.55A threshold per channel), overtemperature shutdown (165°C trip with 15°C hysteresis), 8ms soft-start to limit inrush, and open-drain power-good outputs with 16ms timeout. These features are fully documented in the Electrical Characteristics and Detailed Description sections of the datasheet.