Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17021GTL+

Overview

MAX17021GTL+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual-phase, Quick-PWM™ step-down VID power-supply controller designed for IMVP-6+ CPU core supplies in notebook computers. It delivers ±0.5% output-voltage accuracy over line/load/temperature, supports 7-bit 0–1.50V VID control, and operates with 4V–26V input voltage. Its active voltage positioning, true differential current sense, and phase-good (PHASEGD) fault detection enable high-efficiency, low-ripple core regulation in space-constrained mobile platforms.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17021GTL+ datasheet, MAX17021GTL+ pinout, MAX17021GTL+ application, or MAX17021GTL+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed IMVP-6+ compliance, real-world efficiency curves at 1.075V/0.875V/0.4V outputs, and authoritative alternative selection guidance for notebook CPU power design.

Technical Context

The MAX17021GTL+ implements interleaved dual-phase Quick-PWM control with out-of-phase switching to reduce input/output ripple and ease capacitor selection. It integrates boost switches, a slew-rate controller for controlled VID transitions, soft-start/shutdown, and suspend-exit timing - all programmable via external RTIME resistor.

Its fault protection includes output overvoltage (1.75–1.85V threshold), undervoltage (−450mV to −350mV), thermal shutdown (160°C), and phase imbalance detection via PHASEGD. The controller supports IMVP-6+ Montevina specification with dedicated DPRSTP logic and VRHOT thermistor interface.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX17021GTL+ uses a 40-pin thin QFN package (5mm × 5mm) with exposed thermal pad connected to GND. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin configuration diagram (Rev 2, 7/09).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-phase CPU core controller applications.

Compared with MAX17082GTL+, MAX17021GTL+ adds DPRSTP logic and tighter boot voltage tolerance (1.19–1.21V) for Montevina validation, while ISL6322AIRZ trades integration for higher phase count and VRM 11.1 readiness - making MAX17021GTL+ optimal for validated IMVP-6+ notebook designs prioritizing compactness and thermal intelligence.

Availability

MAX17021GTL+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computer power supplies, embedded blade server CPU regulation, and IMVP-6+ mobile platform designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX17021GTL+ 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 demanding industrial, computing, and communications applications.

The MAX170xx family targets high-efficiency, multi-phase CPU core power conversion in mobile platforms, with MAX17021GTL+ specifically engineered to meet Intel IMVP-6+ Montevina specification requirements for voltage accuracy, transient response, and thermal management.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for MAX17021GTL+?

The MAX17021GTL+ is specified for continuous operation from −40°C to +105°C ambient temperature. This extended range supports deployment in thermally challenging environments such as sealed notebook chassis and high-density blade servers. Junction temperature is rated to +150°C, and the device includes thermal shutdown at +160°C with 15°C hysteresis to prevent damage during sustained overload conditions. All electrical specifications in the datasheet are guaranteed across this full industrial temperature range.

Does MAX17021GTL+ support current monitoring like MAX17082GTL+?

No, MAX17021GTL+ does not include the IMON (current monitor) output function. That feature is exclusive to MAX17082GTL+ and MAX17482GTL+, which provide an analog current output proportional to total CPU power consumption. MAX17021GTL+ omits IMON to align with IMVP-6+ Montevina requirements, focusing instead on enhanced thermal fault signaling via VRHOT and precise phase balancing through its differential current-sense architecture. Designers needing current telemetry must select MAX17082GTL+ or add external sensing circuitry.

What is the purpose of the DPRSTP pin on MAX17021GTL+?

The DPRSTP pin on MAX17021GTL+ is an IMVP-6+–specific control input that configures deep-sleep transition behavior. When asserted high, it enables quarter-rate slew-rate control during C4/C6 state entry/exit - ensuring smooth, low-noise voltage transitions that prevent CPU reset or data corruption. This pin replaces the SLOW pin used in IMVP-6.5 controllers like MAX17082GTL+, and its logic level directly determines VID transition timing per Intel Montevina timing specifications. It is not present on non-IMVP-6+ variants.

How does MAX17021GTL+ implement active voltage positioning?

MAX17021GTL+ implements active voltage positioning using its FBAC (feedback-ac) pin and internal droop amplifier. By injecting a current proportional to phase current into FBAC, the controller dynamically lowers output voltage under load - reducing power dissipation in the CPU and allowing smaller bulk output capacitors. The droop gain is adjustable via external resistor networks, and the amplifier's transconductance is tightly specified at 585–610µS. This feature is essential for optimizing efficiency with tantalum, polymer, or ceramic capacitors in IMVP-6+ systems.

What protection features are unique to MAX17021GTL+ versus other controllers in the family?

MAX17021GTL+ uniquely combines IMVP-6+–specific protections: a boot voltage window of 1.19–1.21V (vs. 1.09–1.11V for IMVP-6.5 parts), DPRSTP-enabled deep-sleep slew control, and tighter OVP thresholds (1.75–1.85V) calibrated for Montevina platforms. It also includes PHASEGD for phase imbalance detection and VRHOT for thermistor-based thermal fault signaling - both implemented with guaranteed timing (10µs propagation delay) and hysteresis (75mV). These features are validated per Intel's IMVP-6+ compliance test plan and are not replicated identically in MAX17082GTL+ or MAX17482GTL+.