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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20438CAFOA/VY+
- Part No.:
- MAX20438CAFOA/VY+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 17-WFQFN
- Datasheet:
-
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 12A 17FC2QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,686
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Product details
Overview
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ from Analog Devices is an ultra-high-efficiency, AEC-Q100-qualified synchronous buck converter delivering up to 12A output current with factory-preset 0.5V–1.2V output voltage, ±1% accuracy, and 2.1MHz/4.2MHz adaptive on-time control-designed for SoC/MCU secondary regulation in automotive and industrial point-of-load systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ datasheet, MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ pinout, MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ application, or MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 3mm × 3.5mm FCQFN package, differential remote sense capability, spread-spectrum option for EMI reduction, and integrated high-side/low-side MOSFETs enabling compact all-ceramic designs.
Technical Context
The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ implements Analog Devices' MAXQ® power architecture to deliver precision transient response and robust phase margin across wide load and input conditions. Its adaptive on-time control dynamically adjusts switching frequency between 2.1MHz and 4.2MHz depending on VIN, VOUT, and load-enabling stable operation without external compensation.
It integrates dual low-RDS(ON) MOSFETs (high-side + low-side), supports PWM and SKIP mode operation, and features factory-programmable soft-start and RESET timing. Differential remote sensing compensates for PCB IR drop, maintaining ±1% output accuracy under dynamic load steps up to 12A.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | Up to 12A continuous-supports high-performance SoC core rails without external current sharing. |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.5V to 5.5V-compatible with 3.3V and 5V intermediate bus architectures. |
| Output Voltage Range | Factory-preset 0.5V to 1.2V ±1%-eliminates need for external feedback resistors. |
| Switching Frequency | 2.1MHz or 4.2MHz adaptive on-time-enables use of small 80nH inductors and all-ceramic output caps. |
| Efficiency | Up to 93% at 5V IN → 1V OUT-reduces thermal load in dense automotive ECUs. |
| Operating Temp | −40°C to +125°C ambient-qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 1 for under-hood applications. |
| Protection | Overcurrent limiting and overtemperature shutdown-prevents latch-up during fault conditions. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 3mm × 3.5mm, 20-pin FCQFN (Fine-Pitch Chip-Scale Quad Flat No-Lead) with exposed thermal pad (EP). Pin pitch: 0.5mm. RoHS-compliant, lead-free finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Primary input supply | Accepts 2.5V–5.5V; connects to bulk input capacitor and internal high-side FET source. |
| LX | Switch node | Drives external 80nH inductor; requires low-inductance layout to minimize ringing and EMI. |
| PGND | Power ground | High-current return path for internal FETs and output capacitor; must be tied directly to EP. |
| GND | Analog ground | Reference for internal control circuitry and remote sense inputs; separate from PGND for noise isolation. |
| EN | Enable input | Active-high logic input; enables converter when pulled ≥1.2V; supports sequencing with other rails. |
| RESET | Open-drain power-good signal | Asserts low during undervoltage or startup; used for system reset coordination and fault reporting. |
| RS+, RS− | Differential remote sense inputs | Measure VOUT at load point to compensate for PCB trace resistance; improves regulation accuracy under load transients. |
| BST1, BST2 | Bootstrap capacitors | Supply gate drive for high-side FET; require two 100nF ceramic caps placed close to pins. |
| VIO | I/O supply | Provides 1.8V bias for EN, RESET, and logic interfaces; decoupled with 2.2µF ceramic cap. |
| AV | Analog supply | Powers internal reference and error amplifier; decoupled with 2.2µF ceramic cap. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| MAXQ® Power Architecture | Delivers >60° phase margin and <10µs load-step recovery time-enables stable regulation without external loop compensation. |
| Spread-Spectrum Modulation | Reduces peak EMI by ±12.5% frequency dither-meets CISPR 25 Class 5 requirements in automotive layouts. |
| Differential Remote Sense | Compensates for up to 50mV IR drop across PCB traces-maintains ±1% output accuracy at full 12A load. |
| Factory-Programmed Soft-Start | Configurable 0.5ms–10ms ramp time-prevents inrush current and ensures controlled power-up sequencing. |
| PWM/SKIP Mode Selection | Enables high-efficiency light-load operation (SKIP) or low-noise fixed-frequency operation (PWM)-user-selectable via pin strap. |
Applications
| Automotive ADAS Domain Controller | Industrial PLC CPU Core Rail |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powers 1.0V core rail of a 16nm SoC in a radar processing unit operating at −40°C to +105°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary point-of-load regulator with differential remote sense and spread-spectrum EMI control. Use Value: Maintains ±1% output accuracy across temperature and load transients while meeting CISPR 25 radiated emissions limits. | Use Scenario: Supplies 0.85V/10A core voltage to an ARM Cortex-A72 processor in a DIN-rail mounted programmable logic controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary regulator downstream of a 3.3V intermediate bus; supports hot-swap and brownout recovery. Use Value: Enables compact 12mm² solution size with no external compensation and guaranteed AEC-Q100 reliability. |
| Server AI Accelerator Module | Medical Imaging FPGA Power |
Use Scenario: Delivers 0.75V/12A to a custom ASIC in a PCIe-based inference accelerator card with strict thermal envelope. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current buck converter with adaptive on-time control and thermal shutdown protection. Use Value: Achieves 93% efficiency at full load, reducing board-level heat dissipation by >2W vs. discrete solutions. | Use Scenario: Provides 0.95V/8A to a Xilinx Ultrascale+ FPGA in a portable ultrasound subsystem requiring low-noise, low-EMI operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-voltage, high-precision PoL regulator with PWM mode and differential sensing. Use Value: Ensures deterministic timing margins during FPGA configuration and real-time beamforming operations. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-current, low-voltage buck converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS546D24AQRGZTQ1 | 6V max input, 10A max output, 0.5V–2.0V adjustable VOUT, requires external feedback resistors. | Supports wider output range but lacks factory-preset ±1% accuracy and spread-spectrum EMI control. | Preferred when adjustable output or higher input voltage tolerance is required; adds BOM cost and layout complexity. |
| ISL8240MEVAL1Z | 15A output, 4.5V–14V input, 0.6V–5.0V adjustable VOUT, larger 15mm × 15mm module form factor. | Offers higher current and input range but uses integrated inductor-less suitable for space-constrained automotive modules. | Selected for prototyping or low-volume industrial systems where layout simplicity outweighs footprint constraints. |
Compared with TPS546D24AQRGZTQ1 and ISL8240MEVAL1Z, the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ delivers superior integration density (3mm × 3.5mm), guaranteed ±1% factory-trimmed accuracy, and automotive-grade EMI performance-making it optimal for production-ready AEC-Q100 systems with tight thermal and spatial budgets.
Availability
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS domain controllers, industrial PLC CPU core rails, and medical imaging FPGA power delivery requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100 compliance.
Supply support for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ 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 automotive, industrial, communications, and healthcare markets.
The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ belongs to Analog Devices' MAXQ® power management portfolio-engineered specifically for high-accuracy, high-density, AEC-Q100-compliant DC-DC conversion in safety-critical automotive and ruggedized industrial environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current supported by the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ supports up to 12A continuous output current under specified thermal conditions (−40°C to +125°C ambient, proper PCB copper area and airflow). This rating assumes use of the recommended 80nH inductor and six 22µF ceramic output capacitors, with the exposed thermal pad soldered to a minimum 100mm² copper pour.
Does the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ require external feedback resistors to set output voltage?
No. The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ features factory-preset output voltage within 0.5V–1.2V range, achieving ±1% accuracy without external resistors. This eliminates resistor tolerance errors and reduces BOM count, layout area, and calibration overhead-critical for high-volume automotive production.
How does the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ achieve EMI reduction?
The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ incorporates spread-spectrum frequency modulation (±12.5% dither) and optimized gate-drive slew rates to suppress peak radiated emissions. When combined with its 2.1MHz/4.2MHz high-frequency operation and integrated MOSFETs, it meets CISPR 25 Class 5 requirements in typical 4-layer automotive PCB layouts without added shielding.
Is the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ compatible with differential remote sensing?
Yes. The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ includes dedicated RS+ and RS− pins for differential remote sensing, allowing direct measurement of output voltage at the load point. This compensates for voltage drop across PCB traces and connectors, ensuring ±1% regulation accuracy even under 12A dynamic load steps.
What protection features are integrated into the MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ integrates cycle-by-cycle overcurrent limiting, thermal shutdown with hysteresis, and output overvoltage/undervoltage monitoring (107%/93% thresholds, ±2% accuracy). These protections operate independently of external components and remain active across the full −40°C to +125°C operating range.
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 17-WFQFN
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 12A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 2.1MHz, 4.2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 17-FC2QFN (3x3.5)
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
For technical support, including MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX20438CAFOA/VY+?
All MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX20438CAFOA/VY+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX20438CAFOA/VY+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX20438CAFOA/VY+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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