Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16976AEE/V+

Overview

MAX16976AEE/V+ from Maxim Integrated is an automotive-grade 600mA current-mode 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 units and ADAS power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16976AEE/V+ datasheet, MAX16976AEE/V+ pinout, MAX16976AEE/V+ application, or MAX16976AEE/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include cold-crank robustness (93.5% max duty cycle), 42V transient tolerance, adjustable reset threshold via RESETI, capacitor-programmable reset timeout via CRES, and BIAS regulator auto-switching between internal LDO and output supply.

Technical Context

The MAX16976AEE/V+ implements constant-frequency current-mode control with internal slope compensation and cycle-by-cycle current limiting. Its oscillator supports both resistor programming (FOSC pin) and external synchronization (FSYNC pin), with acquisition within one clock cycle and ±10% frequency margin requirement.

It integrates a 5V linear regulator (BIAS) that dynamically switches power source between internal LDO and regulated output (when VOUT = 3V–5.5V), reducing no-load current by up to 50µA. Dropout operation employs a forced off-time algorithm (3.65 consecutive on-cycles followed by 0.35 off-cycle) and internal 100mA load activation to refresh the BST capacitor under zero-load conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16976AEE/V+ is housed in a 16-pin QSOP package (5.3mm × 10.2mm, 0.635mm pitch), thermally optimized for automotive PCB layouts with exposed pad not present. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet Rev 1 (10/14).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LMQ66430QRNXTQ1 and TPS62933-Q1, the MAX16976AEE/V+ uniquely combines 42V transient tolerance, capacitor-programmable reset timeout, and BIAS regulator auto-switching-enabling lower system-level quiescent current and tighter power sequencing control in demanding automotive environments.

Availability

MAX16976AEE/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU, ADAS sensor modules, infotainment head units, and industrial telematics gateways requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MAX16976AEE/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 MAX16976AEE/V+ belongs to Maxim's automotive power management portfolio, engineered specifically for ASIL-B compliant subsystems requiring ultra-low quiescent current, cold-crank resilience, and robust fault protection in engine bay and cabin environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage transient the MAX16976AEE/V+ can withstand?

The MAX16976AEE/V+ is rated for 42V input transients for up to 100ms, complying with ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a requirements. This eliminates the need for external TVS diodes in most automotive front-end designs. The device continues normal operation after the transient subsides, provided junction temperature remains within limits. Absolute maximum rating for SUP/SUPSW pins is +45V, but sustained operation above 28V is not specified.

How does the MAX16976AEE/V+ achieve 45µA quiescent current in skip mode?

The MAX16976AEE/V+ achieves 45µA skip-mode quiescent current by disabling switching activity when inductor current falls below 100mA, powering internal circuitry only from the BIAS regulator (or VOUT when enabled), and using ultra-low-leakage design techniques in its control logic and reference circuits. This value is measured at no load with VOUT = 5V and TA = +25°C, and remains stable across the full –40°C to +125°C range per datasheet characterization.

Can the MAX16976AEE/V+ be used with a fixed 5V output without external resistors?

Yes, the MAX16976AEE/V+ supports fixed 5V output by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin - no external feedback resistors required. This configuration reduces component count and board space while maintaining ±1% output accuracy over temperature and line. When configured this way, the internal 1.0V reference is routed to the error amplifier, and the BIAS regulator supplies the necessary bias current.

What is the purpose of the CRES pin on the MAX16976AEE/V+?

The CRES pin on the MAX16976AEE/V+ sources a precise 10µA (typ) current into an external capacitor to define the reset timeout period. Once RES asserts low due to undervoltage, CRES begins charging the capacitor; RES remains low until the capacitor voltage reaches 1.13V (typ). This enables programmable delay before system release from reset - critical for coordinating boot sequences with slow-starting peripherals like LPDDR memory or FPGA configuration.

Does the MAX16976AEE/V+ support synchronization to an external clock, and what are the timing requirements?

Yes, the MAX16976AEE/V+ supports external clock synchronization via the FSYNC pin. The external clock must have a frequency 10% higher than the internal oscillator frequency (set by RFOSC) for reliable acquisition, and the device locks within one cycle. FSYNC accepts 3.3V logic levels and features 500kΩ internal pulldown resistance, allowing direct connection to MCU timers or clock generators without external components.