Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20801TPBD+T
- Part No.:
- MAX20801TPBD+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 10-PowerVQFN
- Datasheet:
-
MAX20801TPBD+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK 11V 13.7A 10FCQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,592
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Product details
Overview
MAX20801TPBD+T from Maxim Integrated is a monolithic MPP tracking DC-DC converter optimized for photovoltaic cell-string applications, performing MPPT on 20–24 series-connected PV cells with peak efficiency of 99.1%, ±25A peak current capability, and integrated voltage/current limiting for enhanced system safety in solar module designs.
For engineers reviewing the MAX20801TPBD+T datasheet, MAX20801TPBD+T pinout, MAX20801TPBD+T application, or MAX20801TPBD+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 13.0A max sourcing current in MPPT mode, 11.0V output-voltage limiting at 13.0A, active bypass functionality eliminating hot-spots, and compatibility with EL testing and standard grid-tie inverters.
Technical Context
The MAX20801TPBD+T implements a synchronous buck topology with monolithic power FETs and precision control circuitry to perform "perturb-and-observe" MPPT with 0.4ms loop response time and 99.9% MPPT effectiveness. It operates across -40°C to +150°C junction temperature range and supports seamless transition between MPPT, active bypass, and reverse-current modes.
Its electronic voltage limiting (11.0V typical at 13.0A) and current limiting (13.7A max sourcing) are irradiance- and temperature-independent, enabling fixed PV system voltage/current derating without environmental compensation. Bypass-voltage drop is 120mV at 12A, and overtemperature shutdown triggers at 130°C (MPPT enabled) or 150°C (MPPT disabled).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| MPPT Input Range | 6.5V to 15.5V - matches 20–24 series silicon PV cells under real-world irradiance/temperature |
| Max Sourcing Current (MPPT) | 13.0A - sets upper bound for module-level current rating and fuse selection (e.g., 15A series fuse) |
| Output Voltage Limit | 11.0V - enables fixed, irradiance-independent PV string voltage calculation for inverter MPPT window sizing |
| MPPT Loop Response | 0.4ms - ensures rapid adaptation to fast-moving cloud transients and partial shading events |
| Peak Efficiency | 99.1% - reduces thermal load and improves energy harvest per cell-string vs. passive bypass diodes |
| Junction Temp Range | -40°C to +150°C - supports operation inside encapsulated PV modules with high thermal stress |
| Bypass Voltage Drop | 120mV at 12A - minimizes conduction loss and eliminates hot-spot formation during low-irradiance bypass |
Pinout & Package
MAX20801TPBD+T is housed in a 10-pin FCQFN package (Package Code P105A3F+1, Outline 21-100119), thermally optimized with θJC = 1°C/W on a four-layer board, and features exposed thermal pad for direct PCB heat sinking.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VCC | Internal power supply rail | Provides regulated bias for internal logic and gate drivers; requires local decoupling |
| PV− (pins 2,3,7,8,9,10) | PV cell-string negative input & control ground | Common return path for up to 24-series cells; multiple pins reduce resistance and thermal rise |
| PV+ | PV cell-string positive input | High-side input node for MPPT conversion; rated for −0.3V to 21V absolute max |
| OUT | MPPT-regulated output | Delivers optimized current/voltage to downstream inverter; supports reverse current flow for EL testing |
| VBST | Bootstrap supply for high-side FET driver | Enables full enhancement of internal high-side MOSFET; requires external bootstrap capacitor |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Active Bypass Mode | Eliminates conventional bypass diodes by enabling low-resistance PV−–OUT path while disabling high-side FET, preventing reverse-bias hot-spots and wear-out |
| Electronic Voltage Limiting | Clamps module output voltage to 11.0V regardless of irradiance or temperature, simplifying system voltage derating and inverter string sizing |
| Integrated Current Limiting | Guarantees 13.7A maximum output current independent of environmental conditions, enabling fixed 1.25× IOUT,MAX conductor/fuse rating |
| EL Test Support | Seamlessly enters reverse-current mode when OUT is driven negative, allowing standard electroluminescence inspection without hardware modification |
| Fast MPPT Algorithm | 0.4ms response time and 99.9% tracking effectiveness recover energy lost during transient shading faster than conventional module-level optimizers |
Applications
| Residential Rooftop Solar Arrays | Commercial Flat-Roof PV Installations |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Modules installed on shaded residential rooftops with chimney obstructions and variable soiling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cell-string optimizer performing independent MPPT per 20–24-cell substring to mitigate mismatch losses from partial shading. Use Value: Delivers up to 25% more annual energy yield vs. standard panels and avoids costly reorientation or microinverter retrofitting. | Use Scenario: Large-scale commercial arrays with uniform tilt but varying soiling rates across rows and seasonal temperature swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Embedded DC-DC converter enforcing fixed 11.0V output voltage and 13.7A current limit per module for simplified string design and fuse coordination. Use Value: Enables consistent inverter MPPT window sizing and eliminates irradiance-based voltage derating calculations, reducing engineering overhead. |
| Utility-Scale Solar Farms | PV Module Electroluminescence Testing |
Use Scenario: High-density ground-mount systems where hot-spot-induced degradation threatens long-term O&M cost targets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active bypass function replacing silicon bypass diodes to suppress reverse-bias heating and prevent cell cracking or solder fatigue. Use Value: Extends module lifetime beyond 30 years by eliminating thermal runaway mechanisms, directly improving LCOE. | Use Scenario: Factory QA and field commissioning requiring non-destructive internal defect detection via electroluminescence imaging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reverse-current mode activation when inverter or external source drives current into OUT pin, enabling standard EL test protocols. Use Value: Eliminates need for external bypass switches or test adapters, cutting test cycle time by >40% and preserving module integrity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar cell-string optimization applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX20800TPBD+T | Lower max sourcing current (11.2A vs. 13.0A); 10.0V VMP,MAX at 11.2A; same 10 FCQFN package and pinout | Targeted for 16–20-cell strings with lower current density; reduced thermal margin in high-irradiance environments | Select MAX20800TPBD+T only when PV cell-string current remains ≤11.2A and voltage limiting ≤10.0V suffices for system voltage budget |
| SPV1020TR | External MOSFET drive architecture; requires discrete FETs and gate drivers; 98.5% peak efficiency; different 16-pin QFN package | Offers higher design flexibility for custom thermal/power trade-offs but increases BOM count and layout complexity | Choose SPV1020TR only when monolithic integration is not required and discrete component selection is preferred for thermal management or cost optimization |
Compared with MAX20801TPBD+T, MAX20800TPBD+T provides identical functionality at lower current/voltage ratings-ideal for smaller substrings-while SPV1020TR trades monolithic simplicity for external FET scalability, requiring additional layout effort but enabling higher peak power handling beyond 14A.
Availability
MAX20801TPBD+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for residential rooftop solar arrays, commercial flat-roof PV installations, and utility-scale solar farms requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX20801TPBD+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 interface applications in industrial, automotive, and energy systems.
The MAX20801 product line delivers monolithic cell-string optimization ICs engineered specifically for photovoltaic module integration, targeting reliability, energy yield improvement, and elimination of hot-spot failure mechanisms in next-generation solar panels.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current specification for the MAX20801TPBD+T in MPPT mode?
The MAX20801TPBD+T is specified for a maximum continuous sourcing current of 13.0A in MPPT mode, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under IOUT,MAX_MPP>. This value defines the upper limit for module-level current rating and directly informs 15A series fuse selection per UL 1703 and IEC 61730 compliance requirements. The device maintains this rating across its full operating temperature range of -40°C to +150°C junction temperature.
Does the MAX20801TPBD+T support electroluminescence (EL) testing without external hardware modifications?
Yes, the MAX20801TPBD+T supports standard EL testing natively through its reverse-current mode. When a negative current is applied to the OUT pin-such as from an inverter or external source-the device automatically disables MPPT and operates the DC-DC converter at maximum duty cycle to pass reverse current into the PV cells. This behavior is documented in the datasheet and requires no external switches, jumpers, or firmware changes to execute EL imaging protocols.
What is the output voltage limiting threshold for the MAX20801TPBD+T, and how does it behave under varying irradiance?
The MAX20801TPBD+T limits its output voltage to 11.0V when delivering 13.0A, as specified under VMP,MAX in the Electrical Characteristics table. This voltage limit is electronically enforced and remains constant across all irradiance and temperature conditions-unlike conventional PV modules whose VOC varies significantly. This stability allows fixed, derating-free calculation of maximum string voltage for inverter compatibility and system safety certification.
How does the active bypass functionality of the MAX20801TPBD+T differ from traditional silicon bypass diodes?
The MAX20801TPBD+T replaces passive bypass diodes with an active FET-based bypass that maintains low 120mV forward drop at 12A while disabling the high-side FET to keep the PV cell-string in open-circuit condition. This prevents reverse-bias hot-spot heating and associated long-term degradation. Unlike diodes, which conduct at ~0.7V and force cells into breakdown, the MAX20801TPBD+T's active bypass eliminates thermal runaway risk and extends module lifetime beyond 30 years.
Is the MAX20801TPBD+T pin-compatible with other variants in the MAX20801 family, such as MAX20801TPBA+T or MAX20801TPBC+T?
Yes, the MAX20801TPBD+T shares identical 10-pin FCQFN package dimensions, land pattern (90-100039), and pinout with all other MAX20801 variants including MAX20801TPBA+T and MAX20801TPBC+T. All variants use the same P105A3F+1 outline and electrical pin functions-enabling drop-in replacement on the same PCB footprint. Differences are limited to internal current/voltage limiting thresholds and are fully compatible with shared layout and thermal design.
MAX20801TPBD+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-PowerVQFN
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 1.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 18V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 11V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 13.7A
- Frequency - Switching:
- -
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-FCQFN (5.8x3)
MAX20801TPBD+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX20801TPBD+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX20801TPBD+T 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 MAX20801TPBD+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX20801TPBD+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX20801TPBD+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX20801TPBD+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX20801TPBD+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX20801TPBD+T?
MAX20801TPBD+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX20801TPBD+T 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 MAX20801TPBD+T?
For technical support, including MAX20801TPBD+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX20801TPBD+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX20801TPBD+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX20801TPBD+T 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 MAX20801TPBD+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX20801TPBD+T?
All MAX20801TPBD+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX20801TPBD+T, 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 MAX20801TPBD+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX20801TPBD+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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