Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16975AEE/V+T

Overview

MAX16975AEE/V+T 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–1MHz resistor-programmable switching frequency, and operates across –40°C to +125°C for engine control unit (ECU) power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16975AEE/V+T datasheet, MAX16975AEE/V+T pinout, MAX16975AEE/V+T application, or MAX16975AEE/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank robustness (94% duty cycle), 42V transient tolerance, programmable reset threshold via RESETI, capacitor-adjustable reset timeout via CRES, and thermal shutdown with automatic recovery at +175°C.

Technical Context

This current-mode buck controller uses internal slope compensation and cycle-by-cycle current limiting to ensure stable operation under wide VIN transients and load steps. Its integrated 1.2A high-side switch features 300–550mΩ on-resistance and supports dropout operation with adaptive BST refresh logic that forces periodic LX pull-down to maintain gate drive voltage during deep undervoltage conditions.

The device implements dual regulation paths: a 5V BIAS LDO powers internal circuitry until VOUT reaches regulation (3V–5.5V range), then switches to OUT sourcing; meanwhile, FB senses 1.0V reference with ±1.5mV typical accuracy over temperature, enabling precise output setting via external resistive divider or direct connection to BIAS for fixed 5V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16975AEE/V+T is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package with exposed pad (QSOP-EP), optimized for thermal performance in automotive under-hood environments. The exposed pad must be soldered to a large contiguous copper ground plane but cannot serve as sole GND connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar automotive buck converter applications.

Compared with LM61480-Q1 and TPS62933-Q1, the MAX16975AEE/V+T uniquely combines 45µA skip-mode IQ, 42V transient tolerance, and fully integrated reset timing (CRES + RESETI) in a thermally enhanced QSOP-EP package-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained ECU and BCM designs requiring deterministic cold-crank behavior and minimal external components.

Availability

MAX16975AEE/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive engine control units, advanced driver assistance systems, and body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifetime requirements.

Supply support for MAX16975AEE/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 MAX16975 belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for harsh-environment DC-DC conversion in engine compartments and ADAS sensors where cold-crank resilience, transient immunity, and low-IQ operation are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage transient the MAX16975AEE/V+T can withstand?

The MAX16975AEE/V+T is rated for 42V input transients, complying with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a (load dump) requirements without external protection. This rating is validated across the full –40°C to +125°C operating range and applies to both SUP and SUPSW pins. During such events, the device enters overvoltage protection and resumes regulation once the transient subsides. The 42V tolerance is intrinsic to the internal high-voltage process and does not rely on external TVS devices.

How does the MAX16975AEE/V+T maintain regulation during cold-crank conditions?

The MAX16975AEE/V+T sustains operation down to 3.5V input by enabling up to 94% effective duty cycle, allowing continued power delivery to downstream loads during engine cranking. Its internal BST refresh algorithm forces periodic LX pull-down to recharge the bootstrap capacitor even at minimum input, preventing gate-drive collapse. This behavior is guaranteed across temperature and does not require external circuitry or configuration changes.

Can the MAX16975AEE/V+T generate a fixed 5V output without external resistors?

Yes, the MAX16975AEE/V+T supports fixed 5V output by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin. In this configuration, the internal 1.0V reference and BIAS's 5V output establish a precise 5V regulation point with ±1% initial accuracy and ±1.5% variation over temperature. No external feedback resistors are needed, reducing BOM count and PCB area-ideal for cost-sensitive automotive modules.

What is the purpose of the CRES pin on the MAX16975AEE/V+T?

The CRES pin on the MAX16975AEE/V+T sources a precise 10µA current to charge an external capacitor, defining the reset timeout period after VOUT returns to regulation. When VOUT drops below the RESETI-set threshold, RES asserts low and CRES discharges; upon recovery, CRES recharges the capacitor at 10µA until it reaches 1.13V, at which point RES deasserts. This provides programmable startup sequencing delay independent of output voltage setting.

Does the MAX16975AEE/V+T require an external bootstrap diode?

No, the MAX16975AEE/V+T integrates an internal bootstrap diode and implements active BST capacitor refresh logic. During dropout, the device periodically forces the LX node low to replenish BST voltage, eliminating the need for an external diode. A 0.1µF ceramic capacitor between BST and LX is still required, but no additional diode or charge-pump circuitry is necessary-reducing component count and improving reliability in automotive applications.