Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16993ATJA/V+

Overview

MAX16993ATJA/V+ from Maxim Integrated is an AEC-Q100 qualified automotive PMIC integrating one high-voltage synchronous step-down controller (OUT1) and two low-voltage synchronous step-down converters (OUT2/OUT3) cascaded from OUT1. It operates from 3.5V–36V input, delivers up to 3A per low-voltage output, achieves 30µA quiescent current, and supports 2.1MHz switching with spread-spectrum and SYNC capability - used in ADAS camera modules requiring compact, low-noise, multi-rail power.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16993ATJA/V+ datasheet, MAX16993ATJA/V+ pinout, MAX16993ATJA/V+ application, or MAX16993ATJA/V+ equivalent, key selection factors include its -40°C to +125°C operation, side-wettable QFND-EP package, individual RESET_ outputs per rail, factory-programmable frequency options, and integrated overtemperature/overcurrent protection for automotive ECU power domains.

Technical Context

The MAX16993ATJA/V+ implements a current-mode control architecture with forced-PWM and skip modes across all three channels. Its OUT1 controller uses external high-side/low-side MOSFETs and supports load-dump transient immunity up to 42V, while OUT2/OUT3 integrate 3A FETs and operate from OUT1's regulated output.

It features pin-selectable 2.1MHz operation (CSEL1 = GND) or factory-trimmed lower frequencies (CSEL1 = BIAS), spread-spectrum modulation (SSEN = BIAS) for EMI reduction, and SYNC input compatibility with 1.7–2.4MHz external clocks. Each channel has independent enable inputs and open-drain RESET_ outputs with programmable timeout (0.1–7.8ms).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16993ATJA/V+ is housed in a 32-pin side-wettable QFND-EP package (5mm × 5mm × 0.8mm) with exposed pad connected to GND for thermal dissipation. The package supports automated optical inspection (AOI) of solder joints due to side-wettable leads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multichannel automotive DC-DC controller applications.

Compared with MAX20096ATPA/V+, MAX16993ATJA/V+ offers simpler configuration (no SPI), lower quiescent current (30µA vs. 45µA), and proven side-wettable AOI compatibility; versus TPS653221AQPWPRQ1, it provides superior transient robustness, true rail independence, and EMI mitigation features essential for vision and radar subsystems.

Availability

MAX16993ATJA/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS camera modules, infotainment head units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX16993ATJA/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 MAX16993ATJA/V+ belongs to Maxim's automotive-qualified PMIC portfolio, engineered specifically for compact, low-EMI, multi-rail power delivery in safety-critical vehicle subsystems such as camera ECUs and domain controllers.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating and transient tolerance for MAX16993ATJA/V+?

The MAX16993ATJA/V+ supports continuous input voltages from 3.5V to 36V on VSUP and is protected against load-dump transients up to 42V for ≤50ns. This rating enables direct connection to automotive batteries without external transient suppressors in most 12V and 24V systems.

Does MAX16993ATJA/V+ support independent power sequencing between its three outputs?

Yes. MAX16993ATJA/V+ provides independent EN1, EN2, and EN3 inputs and individual open-drain RESET1, RESET2, and RESET3 outputs. The device supports programmable timeout periods (0.1ms–7.8ms) for each RESET_, enabling precise, configurable power-up and power-down sequencing across all three rails.

How does the spread-spectrum feature work on MAX16993ATJA/V+, and what is its impact on EMI?

When SSEN is pulled high to BIAS, MAX16993ATJA/V+ enables spread-spectrum modulation that varies the switching frequency between fSW and fSW + 6% with a 4kHz sawtooth profile. This reduces peak radiated emissions by distributing energy across a wider bandwidth - verified to improve CISPR 25 Class 5 compliance without altering PCB layout.

What package type and thermal characteristics does MAX16993ATJA/V+ use?

MAX16993ATJA/V+ uses a 32-pin side-wettable QFND-EP package (5mm × 5mm × 0.8mm) with θJA = 37°C/W and θJC = 2.8°C/W. The exposed pad must be soldered to a thermal pad on the PCB for effective heat dissipation in high-ambient automotive environments.

Can MAX16993ATJA/V+ operate with an external clock source, and what are the synchronization requirements?

Yes. When configured as an input, the SYNC pin accepts external clock signals from 1.7MHz to 2.4MHz with 50% duty cycle. Applying a logic-high signal to SYNC forces fixed-frequency forced-PWM mode, eliminating light-load skip-mode noise and enabling deterministic timing alignment across multiple power rails in complex automotive systems.