Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17553CATA+T

Overview

MAX17553CATA+T from Analog Devices is a synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC with integrated high-side p-MOSFET and low-side n-MOSFET, operating from 4V to 60V input and delivering up to 50mA output current. It features adjustable output voltage (0.8V to 90% of VIN), 150kHz–1.5MHz programmable switching frequency, and internal soft-start (3.2ms typical). It is used in space-constrained industrial power rails requiring high efficiency and wide input range.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17553CATA+T datasheet, MAX17553CATA+T pinout, MAX17553CATA+T application, or MAX17553CATA+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8-pin TDFN-2mm×2mm package, ±1.25% FB regulation accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, 3.8µA shutdown current, DCM operation for light-load efficiency, and built-in hiccup-mode overload protection.

Technical Context

The MAX17553CATA+T implements peak-current-mode control with fixed soft-start and internal loop compensation. Its architecture supports prebiased startup and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) to maintain high efficiency at light loads.

It integrates dual MOSFETs (R_DS-ONH = 5.4Ω typ, R_DS-ONL = 1.5Ω typ), features open-drain RESET with 92–95% V_FB thresholds, and provides programmable EN/UV hysteresis via external resistor networks. Thermal shutdown activates at 160°C with 20°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX17553CATA+T is housed in an 8-pin TDFN package (2mm × 2mm, 0.5mm pitch), thermally enhanced with exposed pad. The package code is T822CN+1 (RoHS-compliant), with θ_JA = 162°C/W on a four-layer board.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down DC-DC converter applications.

Compared with LMR36506RNXR and TPS63036YFFR, the MAX17553CATA+T uniquely balances ultra-small size, wide 4–60V input, and precision 50mA regulation - making it optimal for low-power industrial point-of-load where board space and input range are primary constraints.

Availability

MAX17553CATA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for factory automation sensors, automotive asset trackers, industrial IoT edge nodes, railway signaling interfaces, and other applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for MAX17553CATA+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

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The MAX17553CATA+T belongs to Analog Devices' high-voltage, ultra-compact DC-DC converter product line, designed specifically for space- and efficiency-critical industrial power management where wide input range and robust protection are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum output voltage achievable with MAX17553CATA+T?

The MAX17553CATA+T supports an adjustable output voltage ranging from 0.8V up to 90% of the input voltage (VIN). For example, with a 40V input, the maximum regulated output is 36V. This flexibility allows designers to generate custom voltages such as 3.3V, 5V, or 12V using only two external resistors on the FB/VO pin, without requiring different variants or redesigns.

Does MAX17553CATA+T support prebiased startup?

Yes, the MAX17553CATA+T supports prebiased startup. When enabled, both high-side and low-side MOSFETs remain off until the internal reference ramps up, preventing reverse current flow into a precharged output. This feature protects downstream circuitry and ensures clean, controlled power-up in systems with backup supplies or shared rails, and is fully implemented in the MAX17553CATA+T without external components.

What is the purpose of the HYST pin on MAX17553CATA+T?

The HYST pin on MAX17553CATA+T enables programmable hysteresis for the EN/UV input. By connecting an external resistor between HYST and EN/UV, designers set distinct turn-on and turn-off input voltage thresholds - for example, enabling at 20V and disabling at 14V. This prevents oscillation near undervoltage thresholds and ensures stable operation during brownout conditions, a capability confirmed in the MAX17553CATA+T's Electrical Characteristics table.

Can MAX17553CATA+T operate with ceramic capacitors only?

Yes, the MAX17553CATA+T is explicitly designed for all-ceramic capacitor operation. Its internal type-II compensation and DCM control architecture eliminate the need for electrolytic or tantalum output capacitors. The datasheet validates stable performance with X7R/X5R ceramics (e.g., 4.7µF/0603 at output), reducing solution size, improving lifetime, and avoiding capacitance derating issues common in industrial environments.

How does the RESET output function on MAX17553CATA+T?

The RESET output on MAX17553CATA+T is an open-drain signal that asserts low when the FB/VO voltage falls below 92% of its regulated value and releases (goes high-impedance) 30µs after rising above 95%. It also pulls low during EN/UV disable or hiccup-mode fault recovery. This provides precise, delay-compensated power-good monitoring for microcontrollers and FPGAs, and is electrically characterized across –40°C to +125°C in the MAX17553CATA+T datasheet.