Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17623ATA+T

Overview

MAX17623ATA+T from Maxim Integrated is a high-frequency synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated MOSFETs and internal compensation, designed for point-of-load regulation in space-constrained systems. It operates from 2.9V to 5.5V input, delivers up to 1A output current, regulates output voltage from 0.8V to 1.5V with ±1% feedback accuracy, and switches at a fixed 2MHz frequency - enabling compact 1.5µH inductor and ceramic capacitor designs in battery-powered and industrial sensor applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17623ATA+T datasheet, MAX17623ATA+T pinout, MAX17623ATA+T application, or MAX17623ATA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2MHz fixed-frequency PWM/optional PFM operation, 100% duty-cycle capability for deep battery discharge, open-drain PGOOD status, and thermal/overcurrent protection across –40°C to +125°C ambient.

Technical Context

The MAX17623ATA+T employs peak-current-mode control with internal slope compensation and fixed 1ms soft-start, supporting prebiased startup and seamless transition between PWM and PFM modes based on MODE pin state at power-up. Its controller integrates high-side pMOS (120–200mΩ) and low-side nMOS (80–145mΩ) switches, enabling efficient 1A delivery with minimal external components.

It features a precision 0.8V reference with ±1% FB regulation accuracy, undervoltage lockout (2.8V typ, 200mV hysteresis), and robust protection including cycle-by-cycle overcurrent limiting (2A peak), thermal shutdown at 165°C (10°C hysteresis), and open-drain PGOOD with 93.5%/90% rising/falling thresholds relative to VOUT.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX17623ATA+T is housed in an 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm TDFN package with exposed pad (EP) for thermal management. The compact footprint supports high-density PCB layouts while maintaining low thermal resistance (θJA = 85.3°C/W on 4-layer board).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX17624ATA+T and TPS62865ARGTR, the MAX17623ATA+T uniquely balances 1A capability, 0.8V–1.5V output targeting, 2MHz operation for compact magnetics, and critical features like prebias startup and 100% duty cycle - making it optimal for low-voltage, battery-sensitive embedded systems where layout area and deep-discharge efficiency are prioritized.

Availability

MAX17623ATA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-of-load power supplies, battery-powered IoT endpoints, and industrial sensor nodes requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX17623ATA+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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17623ATA+T belongs to the Himalaya series of DC-DC converters, engineered to deliver cooler, smaller, and simpler power solutions through high integration, robust protection, and ease of use in space- and thermal-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current supported by the MAX17623ATA+T?

The MAX17623ATA+T supports up to 1A continuous output current under typical thermal conditions (TA ≤ +70°C, four-layer PCB). Derating applies above +70°C ambient (11.7mW/°C), and actual achievable current depends on layout, inductor DCR, and output voltage. Peak current limit is 2A (typ), but sustained delivery is rated at 1A per datasheet specifications and thermal limits.

Does the MAX17623ATA+T support startup into a prebiased output?

Yes, the MAX17623ATA+T supports soft-start into a prebiased output without discharging the output capacitor, in both PWM and PFM modes. This feature prevents bus contention and voltage overshoot when powering multi-rail digital ICs, and is confirmed in the device's Detailed Description section and Applications Information.

What is the purpose of the OUTSNS pin on the MAX17623ATA+T?

The OUTSNS pin on the MAX17623ATA+T provides Kelvin sensing of the output voltage at the load side of the output capacitor. By connecting it directly to the positive terminal of COUT, it rejects PCB trace resistance voltage drop, improving load regulation accuracy - especially critical for high-current, low-voltage applications like FPGA core supplies.

Can the MAX17623ATA+T operate with 100% duty cycle, and what is its design benefit?

Yes, the MAX17623ATA+T supports 100% duty-cycle operation, where the high-side switch remains fully on and the low-side switch stays off. This enables regulation down to VIN ≈ VOUT + (IOUT × RDS_ONH), extending usable battery life in single-cell Li-ion systems by allowing full discharge to near-VOUT levels without dropout.

What are the recommended input and output capacitors for the MAX17623ATA+T?

The MAX17623ATA+T is optimized for 2.2µF X7R ceramic input capacitance (0603) and 22µF X7R ceramic output capacitance (0805). These values ensure stability, low ESR, and compatibility with the internal compensation. Derating for DC bias must be considered - e.g., a 6.3V-rated 22µF capacitor may deliver only ~12–15µF at 1.2V bias - so voltage rating selection is critical for effective capacitance retention.