Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16993ATJF/V+T

Overview

MAX16993ATJF/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 2.1MHz automotive-grade PMIC integrating one high-voltage synchronous step-down controller (OUT1, 3.5–36V input, 3.3V/5.0V fixed or adjustable output) and two cascaded low-voltage synchronous buck converters (OUT2/OUT3, 0.8–3.95V, up to 3A each), all operating across –40°C to +125°C. It delivers <30µA quiescent current in no-load mode and supports spread-spectrum and external clock synchronization for EMI reduction in infotainment power rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16993ATJF/V+T datasheet, MAX16993ATJF/V+T pinout, MAX16993ATJF/V+T application, or MAX16993ATJF/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q100 qualification, 32-pin side-wettable QFND-EP package with thermal performance (θ_JA = 37°C/W), individual enable/reset per channel, and factory-programmable switching frequencies (2.1/1.05/525/420/350 kHz).

Technical Context

The MAX16993ATJF/V+T implements a current-mode control architecture with forced-PWM and skip modes, enabling stable regulation under dynamic load transients while minimizing light-load power loss. Its OUT1 controller uses an integrated high-side/low-side gate driver (R_DS(ON) = 1–4Ω) and supports up to 42V load-dump transient protection.

OUT2 and OUT3 operate from OUT1's output, sharing 2.1MHz switching (non-divided) with 180° phase shift to reduce input capacitance ripple. Each includes internal FETs (R_DS(ON) = 50–110mΩ), programmable reset timeout (0.1–7.8ms), and ±3% output voltage accuracy over temperature and line/load variation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX16993ATJF/V+T is housed in a 32-pin side-wettable QFND-EP package (5mm × 5mm × 0.8mm) with exposed pad thermally connected to GND. The package supports reflow soldering (260°C peak) and achieves θ_JA = 37°C/W on a 4-layer JEDEC board.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX20096ATPA/V+ and TPS653211AQPWPRQ1, the MAX16993ATJF/V+T uniquely provides per-channel enable, reset, and soft-start control - essential for complex automotive SoCs where rail sequencing, fault isolation, and EMI management must be independently optimized.

Availability

MAX16993ATJF/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS camera modules, infotainment head units, and telematics control units requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100 compliance, and production-ready thermal performance.

Supply support for MAX16993ATJF/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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management solutions for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16993ATJF/V+T belongs to Maxim's automotive PMIC product line, designed specifically to consolidate multiple power rails in space-constrained, thermally demanding vehicle subsystems while meeting stringent EMI and reliability standards.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage the MAX16993ATJF/V+T can withstand during automotive load-dump events?

The MAX16993ATJF/V+T is protected against load-dump transients up to 42V on its VSUP pin, exceeding ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a requirements. This allows direct connection to the 12V battery without external TVS clamping in most passenger vehicle applications. The device remains functional during the transient and resumes regulation once voltage returns within normal range.

Does the MAX16993ATJF/V+T support independent power sequencing for its three output channels?

Yes, the MAX16993ATJF/V+T supports full independent sequencing: EN1 controls OUT1 startup (with 4ms soft-start), while EN2 and EN3 separately enable OUT2 and OUT3 (each with 2.5ms soft-start). RESET1, RESET2, and RESET3 provide individual open-drain power-good signals with programmable timeout (0.1–7.8ms), enabling precise coordination with microcontrollers and FPGAs.

Can the MAX16993ATJF/V+T operate in forced-PWM mode, and how is it configured?

Yes, the MAX16993ATJF/V+T supports forced-PWM mode via its SYNC pin. When SYNC is pulled high (to BIAS or external clock), the device disables skip mode and operates at fixed frequency. An external 1.7–2.4MHz clock applied to SYNC synchronizes all three channels, reducing beat frequencies in multi-PMIC systems - critical for noise-sensitive automotive radar and camera applications.

What is the thermal performance difference between the TQFN and side-wettable QFND packages for the MAX16993ATJF/V+T?

The side-wettable QFND-EP package used in MAX16993ATJF/V+T has θ_JA = 37°C/W (vs. 29°C/W for TQFN), due to its slightly taller profile (0.8mm vs. 0.75mm) and epoxy-attached exposed pad. However, its side-wettable leads enable reliable AOI-based solder joint inspection - a key requirement for automotive manufacturing - without sacrificing thermal capability in typical 4-layer board layouts.

How does the spread-spectrum feature of the MAX16993ATJF/V+T reduce electromagnetic interference?

When SSEN is tied to BIAS, the MAX16993ATJF/V+T modulates its internal oscillator frequency between f_SW and f_SW + 6% at 4kHz, spreading spectral energy across a wider bandwidth. This reduces peak radiated emissions by >10dB in the 100MHz–1GHz range - verified in CISPR 25 Class 5 testing - without requiring additional filtering components or PCB redesign.