Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16963SATED/V+

Overview

MAX16963SATED/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual synchronous step-down DC-DC converter designed 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 MAX16963SATED/V+ datasheet, MAX16963SATED/V+ pinout, MAX16963SATED/V+ application, or MAX16963SATED/V+ equivalent, key selection considerations include dual-channel 1.5A capability, factory-enabled spread-spectrum EMI reduction, independent enable inputs, open-drain power-good outputs with 16ms delay, and automotive-grade thermal performance in TQFN-EP packaging.

Technical Context

The MAX16963SATED/V+ integrates two independent synchronous buck regulators sharing a common 2.2MHz oscillator with ±6% spread-spectrum modulation. Each channel uses internal pMOS/nMOS switches (RDSON_P ≤ 148mΩ, RDSON_N ≤ 128mΩ) and supports programmable soft-start (8ms), overcurrent protection (ILIMP = 1.95–3.15A), and thermal shutdown at 165°C with 15°C hysteresis.

Its SYNC pin is factory-configured as an input (per Selector Guide suffix "D/V+"), enabling synchronization to external 1.7–2.4MHz clocks, while PWM pin selects forced PWM or skip mode. Power-good outputs PG1/PG2 assert on 8% undervoltage with 16ms timeout and require 10kΩ pull-up resistors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX16963SATED/V+ is housed in a 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin thermally enhanced TQFN-EP package with exposed pad (EP) soldered to PCB ground plane for optimal thermal dissipation. Pin numbering follows standard TQFN top-view orientation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX16963SATED/V+, TPS65023BRSBR offers more outputs but sacrifices automotive qualification and EMI control, while LM26420QSQX/NOPB provides higher current but omits spread-spectrum and fixed 16ms power-good delay - making MAX16963SATED/V+ uniquely suited for EMI-sensitive, thermally demanding automotive postregulation.

Availability

MAX16963SATED/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive camera modules, ADAS domain controllers, industrial telematics gateways, and infotainment processors requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX16963SATED/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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16963 product line delivers high-efficiency, dual-channel DC-DC conversion optimized for automotive postregulation - emphasizing EMI reduction, thermal robustness, and functional safety support through integrated protections and AEC-Q100 qualification.

FAQ

What is the function of the SYNC pin on the MAX16963SATED/V+?

The SYNC pin on the MAX16963SATED/V+ is factory-configured as an input (per suffix "D/V+" in Selector Guide), accepting external 1.7–2.4MHz clock signals to synchronize switching frequency. This reduces beat frequencies and system-level EMI in multi-rail designs. The MAX16963SATED/V+ does not operate SYNC as an output - that configuration applies only to variants with suffix "F/V+" or "C/V+".

Does the MAX16963SATED/V+ support adjustable output voltage?

Yes, the MAX16963SATED/V+ supports adjustable output voltage from 0.8V to 3.6V per channel using external resistor dividers connected to OUTS1 and OUTS2 pins. The device achieves ±3% regulation accuracy over load, line, and temperature. Fixed-output variants exist, but MAX16963SATED/V+ is explicitly designated as externally adjustable per Maxim's Selector Guide.

What package type and thermal characteristics does the MAX16963SATED/V+ use?

The MAX16963SATED/V+ uses a 4mm × 4mm, 16-pin TQFN-EP package with exposed thermal pad. Its junction-to-ambient thermal resistance is 40°C/W (JEDEC 4-layer board), and junction-to-case is 6°C/W. The EP pad must be soldered to a large contiguous GND copper plane with multiple vias to maintain junction temperature ≤150°C at full load in +125°C ambient.

How does the MAX16963SATED/V+ handle overcurrent and thermal faults?

The MAX16963SATED/V+ implements cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection with current-limit thresholds of 1.95–3.15A per channel and thermal shutdown at 165°C (typ) with 15°C hysteresis. During overload, the high-side MOSFET turns off when current reaches threshold, then low-side MOSFET discharges inductor current. The MAX16963SATED/V+ resumes normal operation only after junction temperature falls below 150°C.

What are the power-good timing specifications for the MAX16963SATED/V+?

The MAX16963SATED/V+ provides open-drain PG1 and PG2 outputs that assert low when output voltage drops >8% below nominal. Each PG output remains asserted for a fixed 16ms timeout period after VOUT recovers - a value confirmed in the Selector Guide for suffix "D/V+". External 10kΩ pull-up resistors are required, and PG logic is independent per channel.