Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17578ATC+T

Overview

The MAX17578ATC+T from Analog Devices is a high-voltage, synchronous, inverting DC-DC converter IC with integrated MOSFETs, peak current-mode control, and internal compensation. It delivers up to 1A output current, supports adjustable negative output voltages from –0.9V to –36V, operates across a 4.5V to (60V – |VOUT|) input range, and achieves 90.6% peak efficiency in DCM mode - ideal for industrial gate-drive circuits and high-voltage single-board systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17578ATC+T datasheet, MAX17578ATC+T pinout, MAX17578ATC+T application, or MAX17578ATC+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its DCM light-load efficiency advantage over CCM-mode MAX17577, system-ground-referenced EN/UVLO/RESET pins eliminating level shifters, ±1.3% FB regulation accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, and 400kHz–2.2MHz programmable switching frequency via RT/SYNC resistor or external clock synchronization.

Technical Context

The MAX17578ATC+T implements a peak current-mode control architecture with built-in slope compensation and monotonic startup into prebiased outputs. Its discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) operation eliminates negative inductor current at light loads, improving efficiency without requiring external diode emulation circuitry.

It integrates dual nMOSFETs (330mΩ high-side, 163mΩ low-side), a 5V internal LDO regulator referenced to SOUT, and a dedicated RESET comparator with 92%–95% VFB hysteresis and 1024-cycle assertion delay. All I/O pins (EN/UVLO, RESET, RT/SYNC) are referenced to system ground - not SOUT - enabling direct interfacing with microcontrollers and logic without level-shifting components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX17578ATC+T is housed in a compact 12-pin TDFN-EP package (3mm × 3mm, TD1233+1C), with exposed pad (EP) thermally connected to SOUT for enhanced heat dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX17577ATC+T, the MAX17578ATC+T trades fixed-frequency predictability for >5× lower no-load current and improved light-load efficiency; versus LM5160QPWPRQ1, it delivers lower component count and tighter regulation accuracy but lacks automotive qualification and polarity flexibility.

Availability

MAX17578ATC+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control power supplies, gate-drive circuits, motion control systems, and wall-transformer regulation requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX17578ATC+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, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The MAX17578ATC+T belongs to the Himalaya series of high-voltage DC-DC converters designed specifically for compact, efficient, and robust power solutions in harsh industrial environments - emphasizing thermal resilience, EMI compliance, and ease of integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for MAX17578ATC+T when configured for –12V output?

The maximum input voltage for MAX17578ATC+T at –12V output is calculated as 60V – |VOUT| = 60V – 12V = 48V. This limit ensures internal voltage ratings (e.g., IN-to-GND ≤ +65V) are not exceeded. The device also enforces a secondary constraint based on minimum on-time and switching frequency, but 48V remains the governing upper bound per datasheet specifications for this output configuration.

Does MAX17578ATC+T support synchronization to an external clock, and what are the timing requirements?

Yes, MAX17578ATC+T supports external clock synchronization via the RT/SYNC pin. The external clock frequency must fall within 1.1× to 1.4× the internally programmed switching frequency (set by RRT/SYNC). Pulse width must exceed 100ns, and duty cycle must be between 10% and 90%. The clock can be referenced to either GND or SOUT, and must be AC-coupled using a capacitor sized per the datasheet equations.

How does the RESET function behave during startup and fault conditions for MAX17578ATC+T?

For MAX17578ATC+T, RESET asserts low when the FB voltage drops below 92% of regulation (VFB-OKF) and deasserts high 1024 switching cycles after FB rises above 95% (VFB-OKR). During startup, RESET remains low until soft-start completes and regulation is achieved. It also pulls low during thermal shutdown or when EN/UVLO falls below its falling threshold (VENF = 1.09V), providing unified fault signaling.

Can MAX17578ATC+T start up into a prebiased output, and how is this managed?

Yes, MAX17578ATC+T supports monotonic startup into prebiased outputs. At power-on, both high-side and low-side MOSFETs remain off until the SS pin voltage exceeds the FB pin voltage. Only then does soft-start commence, allowing VFB and VOUT to ramp smoothly to their target values without sinking current from the precharged rail - preventing output voltage collapse or reverse current flow.

What thermal performance can be expected from MAX17578ATC+T on a standard four-layer PCB?

On a standard four-layer board per JEDEC 51-7, MAX17578ATC+T exhibits θJA = 33°C/W and θJC = 8.5°C/W. With 1951.2mW max continuous power dissipation at TA = +70°C (derating 24.4mW/°C above), junction temperature rise is predictable: e.g., at 1A output with 24V input and –12V output (η ≈ 90%), Pdiss ≈ 1.33W → ΔTJ = 1.33W × 33°C/W ≈ 44°C → TJ ≈ 114°C - safely below the 150°C limit.