Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17603ASA+T

Overview

MAX17603ASA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel, inverting high-speed MOSFET driver IC designed for gate driving in high-frequency power stages. It delivers 4A peak sink/source current per channel, features 12ns typical propagation delay with matched delays between channels, and operates from a +6V to +14V single supply with CMOS-like high-noise margin (HNM) inputs - ideal for synchronous buck converters and isolated DC-DC modules.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17603ASA+T datasheet, MAX17603ASA+T pinout, MAX17603ASA+T application, or MAX17603ASA+T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, application-specific implementation guidance, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and interface differences.

Technical Context

The MAX17603ASA+T implements dual independent inverting drivers with internal shoot-through prevention logic and UVLO (3.5V threshold, 200mV hysteresis). Each channel includes dedicated enable inputs (ENA/ENB) with internal 100kΩ pull-up resistors and HNM input thresholds (VIH = 4.25V, VIL = 2.0V).

It uses BiCMOS process technology to achieve fast switching (6ns rise / 5ns fall with 1nF load), low input capacitance (10pF), and thermal shutdown protection. The SO-8 package supports operation from –40°C to +125°C junction temperature, with θJA = 136°C/W on a four-layer board.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX17603ASA+T is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (S8+2, outline 21-0041) with standard lead pitch (1.27mm) and RoHS-compliant finish. The exposed pad is absent - unlike TDFN/µMAX variants, SO version has no thermal pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual inverting MOSFET driver applications.

Compared with UCC27524D and LM5113MMX/NOPB, the MAX17603ASA+T offers superior noise immunity via HNM inputs and tighter channel matching, making it optimal for digitally controlled, high-density SMPS where timing precision and EMI resilience are critical - though it lacks integrated bootstrap functionality for self-biased high-side use.

Availability

MAX17603ASA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for synchronous buck converters, isolated DC-DC modules, and motor drive half-bridges requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and telecom power designs.

Supply support for MAX17603ASA+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, designs high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for power, sensing, and communication applications - with emphasis on reliability and integration for harsh-environment systems.

The MAX17600–MAX17605 family was engineered specifically for high-frequency, high-current gate driving in space-constrained power supplies - balancing speed, noise immunity, and thermal robustness in single-supply architectures.

FAQ

What is the logic configuration of MAX17603ASA+T?

The MAX17603ASA+T is a dual inverting MOSFET driver: a logic-high input at INA or INB produces a logic-low output at OUTA or OUTB, respectively. This configuration is optimized for driving N-channel high-side switches in conjunction with level-shifting circuitry or for low-side N-MOSFETs in half-bridge topologies. Its HNM input thresholds (VIH = 4.25V, VIL = 2.0V) ensure reliable operation in noisy industrial environments where TTL-level drivers may misfire.

Does MAX17603ASA+T support 5V-only operation?

No, MAX17603ASA+T does not support 5V-only operation. As an HNM-input device, its minimum valid supply voltage is +6V (per Electrical Characteristics table), with guaranteed VIH = 4.25V and VIL = 2.0V only above that threshold. At 5V VDD, input recognition becomes unreliable due to insufficient noise margin - use MAX17600/MAX17601 (TTL versions) for true 4V–14V operation including 5V systems.

What is the purpose of the ENA and ENB pins on MAX17603ASA+T?

The ENA and ENB pins on MAX17603ASA+T provide independent hardware-level enable control for each driver channel. When pulled low, they force the corresponding output (OUTA or OUTB) into high-impedance state regardless of input logic - enabling rapid fault shutdown, soft-start sequencing, or phase shedding in multi-phase converters. Each pin features an internal 100kΩ pull-up to VDD, allowing default-on operation when left unconnected - simplifying designs where continuous operation is required.

Can MAX17603ASA+T drive GaN FETs effectively?

Yes, MAX17603ASA+T is well-suited for driving enhancement-mode GaN FETs. Its 4A peak sink/source current, 6ns/5ns rise/fall times (with 1nF load), and 12ns propagation delay meet the stringent gate-drive requirements of GaN devices like the EPC2023 or GS66508T. For optimal performance, use a 2–5Ω series gate resistor to dampen ringing and limit di/dt, and ensure tight VDD bypassing with ≥2.2µF ceramic capacitor placed adjacent to the SO-8 package.

How does the thermal performance of MAX17603ASA+T compare across packages?

MAX17603ASA+T in SO-8 (S8+2) has θJA = 136°C/W on a four-layer board - significantly higher than the TDFN-EP (42°C/W) or µMAX-EP (77.6°C/W) variants. This means the SO package dissipates heat less efficiently, limiting continuous 4A operation at high ambient temperatures unless heatsinking or airflow is added. For thermally constrained designs, the TDFN version (MAX17603ATA+) is preferred; the SO variant remains ideal for cost-sensitive, lower-power, or manually assembled prototypes where layout simplicity outweighs thermal density.