Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16975AAEE/V+

Overview

MAX16975AAEE/V+ from Maxim Integrated is an automotive-grade 1.2A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated high-side MOSFET, operating from 3.5V to 28V input and delivering fixed 5V or adjustable 1V–10V output. It features 45µA skip-mode quiescent current, 220kHz–1.0MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for engine control unit (ECU) and ADAS camera power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16975AAEE/V+ datasheet, MAX16975AAEE/V+ pinout, MAX16975AAEE/V+ application, or MAX16975AAEE/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank tolerance (42V transient), adjustable reset threshold via RESETI, capacitor-programmable reset timeout via CRES, and thermally enhanced QSOP-EP package with 44°C/W θ_JA.

Technical Context

This current-mode buck controller uses internal slope compensation and cycle-by-cycle current limiting to stabilize operation under wide VIN transients. Its integrated 1.2A high-side switch supports up to 94% duty cycle during cold-crank events, while the BIAS linear regulator auto-switches between internal 5V supply and OUT-derived bias when VOUT is 3V–5.5V.

The device implements dual-mode operation: PWM at full load (f_SW = 220kHz–1MHz) and skip mode below 200mA inductor current to maintain 45µA I_Q. Reset assertion occurs at 93% of programmed V_OUT (via resistive divider on RESETI), with deassertion at 95%, and RES is open-drain active-low with 5mA sink capability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16975AAEE/V+ is packaged in a 16-pin thermally enhanced QSOP-EP (exposed pad) with 0.635mm pitch, optimized for automotive PCB layouts requiring low thermal resistance (θ_JA = 44°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61480QPWPRQ1 and TPS62933RTER, MAX16975AAEE/V+ uniquely balances ultra-low 45µA skip-mode current, 42V transient tolerance, and programmable reset timing - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, thermally demanding ECU power rails where reliability under cold-crank and battery-dip conditions is non-negotiable.

Availability

MAX16975AAEE/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU, ADAS camera, and body control module designs requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 qualification, and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX16975AAEE/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 MAX16975 belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for harsh-environment DC-DC conversion in engine compartments and ADAS subsystems where cold-crank resilience, low quiescent current, and extended temperature operation are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage transient tolerance for MAX16975AAEE/V+?

MAX16975AAEE/V+ tolerates input transients up to 42V, verified per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a testing. This enables direct connection to automotive batteries without additional TVS protection during jump-start or load-dump events. The device remains functional and undamaged within its absolute maximum ratings, which specify SUP/SUPSW to GND at –0.3V to +45V.

How does MAX16975AAEE/V+ achieve 45µA quiescent current in skip mode?

MAX16975AAEE/V+ enters skip mode when inductor current falls below 200mA, disabling switching and allowing VOUT to droop before reactivating the high-side switch. During this state, only essential bias circuitry remains active, drawing just 45µA from SUP. The internal BIAS regulator also shuts off when VOUT is 3V–5.5V and in regulation, further reducing total system I_Q.

Can MAX16975AAEE/V+ operate with a 1.25V output, and what is the minimum achievable output voltage?

Yes, MAX16975AAEE/V+ supports 1V to 10V adjustable output via external FB divider. At 1.25V output, the device maintains regulation with ±1% FB reference accuracy (0.99V–1.01V) and achieves <0.3% load regulation across 30mA–1.2A. The 1V lower limit is constrained by the 1.0V internal reference and practical resistor tolerance; outputs below 1.2V require careful divider design to maintain accuracy.

What is the purpose of the CRES pin on MAX16975AAEE/V+, and how is it used?

CRES on MAX16975AAEE/V+ sources a precise 10µA current to charge an external capacitor to 1.13V, defining the reset timeout period before RES deasserts after VOUT returns to regulation. Timeout = (1.13V × C)/10µA. For example, a 100nF capacitor yields ~11.3ms delay. Leaving CRES unconnected results in minimum delay (~1 switching cycle), enabling fast reset release.

Does MAX16975AAEE/V+ support external clock synchronization, and what are the timing requirements?

Yes, MAX16975AAEE/V+ accepts an external clock on FSYNC to synchronize switching. The external clock frequency must be 10% higher than the internal oscillator frequency (set by RFOSC) for reliable acquisition. FSYNC has 1.4V high threshold and 0.4V low threshold, with internal 500kΩ pulldown. Synchronization occurs within one cycle, minimizing phase jitter in multi-converter systems.