Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX25232ATCE/V+

Overview

MAX25232ATCE/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a 36V, 3A synchronous buck converter with integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs, designed for automotive and industrial DC-DC conversion. It delivers ±2% output voltage accuracy at 3.3V in FPWM mode, operates from 3.5V–36V input, draws only 3.5µA quiescent current at no load, and supports 400kHz fixed-frequency switching for peak efficiency in high-voltage applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX25232ATCE/V+ datasheet, MAX25232ATCE/V+ pinout, MAX25232ATCE/V+ application, or MAX25232ATCE/V+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its AEC-Q100 qualification, 99% dropout duty cycle, 40V load-dump protection, -40°C to +125°C operating range, and compatibility with compact 3mm × 3mm TDFN packaging requiring minimal external components.

Technical Context

The MAX25232ATCE/V+ implements current-mode control with internal compensation, enabling stable regulation without external loop components. Its 65ns minimum on-time supports wide VIN-to-VOUT ratios (e.g., 24V→3.3V), while the 400kHz switching frequency minimizes conduction losses and maximizes efficiency under medium-to-heavy loads.

It features a dedicated high-voltage EN input (3.3V–40V compatible), open-drain PGOOD with 92–95% threshold hysteresis, and thermal shutdown at 175°C with 15°C hysteresis. The device enters skip mode automatically below ~600mA load and transitions to forced-PWM (FPWM) when SYNC is pulled to BIAS - enabling precise EMI control and predictable spectral behavior.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX25232ATCE/V+ is housed in a thermally enhanced 12-pin TDFN package (3mm × 3mm) with exposed pad (EP) soldered to PCB ground for optimal thermal dissipation. Pin numbering follows standard TDFN-EP layout with EP electrically isolated from signal pins and used solely for heat transfer.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with LM61480RQWR and TPS543B20RJER, MAX25232ATCE/V+ uniquely combines AEC-Q100 qualification, 400kHz/2.1MHz dual-frequency capability, 40V load-dump tolerance, and 3.5µA IQ in a 3mm × 3mm footprint - making it the only drop-in solution for space-constrained, safety-critical automotive 3.3V rails.

Availability

MAX25232ATCE/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, industrial sensor nodes, and ADAS camera modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX25232ATCE/V+ 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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX25232 product line targets high-reliability automotive DC-DC conversion, emphasizing ultra-low IQ, wide input range, AEC-Q100 compliance, and compact packaging for next-generation vehicle electronics.

FAQ

What is the output voltage of MAX25232ATCE/V+ and is it adjustable?

The MAX25232ATCE/V+ provides a factory-trimmed fixed 3.3V output with ±2% accuracy in forced-PWM mode across -40°C to +125°C. It is not user-adjustable - the FB pin is internally connected to BIAS, eliminating external resistor dividers. For adjustable output (3V–10V), select MAX25232ATCF or MAX25232ATCG instead. The MAX25232ATCE/V+ simplifies design by removing feedback network validation and calibration steps.

Does MAX25232ATCE/V+ support automotive-grade temperature and reliability requirements?

Yes, MAX25232ATCE/V+ is AEC-Q100 Grade-1 qualified for operation from -40°C to +125°C ambient temperature and rated for 95,000 hours at TJ = +125°C. It includes 40V load-dump protection, undervoltage lockout with hysteresis, thermal shutdown at 175°C, and robust ESD tolerance (±2kV HBM). These features make MAX25232ATCE/V+ suitable for under-hood and cabin applications where reliability is mission-critical.

What switching frequency does MAX25232ATCE/V+ operate at, and how is it selected?

MAX25232ATCE/V+ operates at a fixed 400kHz switching frequency - optimized for maximum efficiency in medium-to-heavy load conditions. Unlike other MAX25232 variants (e.g., ATCA/ATCB with 2.1MHz), the ATCE/V+ variant is factory-configured for 400kHz and does not support frequency selection via SYNC or external clock. This eliminates configuration errors and ensures consistent thermal and EMI performance in production systems using MAX25232ATCE/V+.

How does MAX25232ATCE/V+ achieve ultra-low quiescent current, and what is its value?

MAX25232ATCE/V+ achieves 3.5µA typical quiescent current at no load by entering standby mode when the high-side FET remains off for eight consecutive clock cycles. In this state, non-essential internal circuitry (including the high-voltage LDO) is powered down while maintaining regulation via output-derived BIAS. This value is measured at 3.3V output, 14V input, and +25°C - and remains ≤8µA across the full -40°C to +125°C range, enabling multi-year battery operation in always-on automotive modules.

What package type and thermal characteristics does MAX25232ATCE/V+ have?

MAX25232ATCE/V+ uses a 12-pin TDFN package (3mm × 3mm) with exposed pad (EP), designated TD1233+2C. Its thermal resistance is θJA = 41°C/W on a four-layer PCB per JEDEC JESD51-7. The EP must be soldered to a solid ground plane with multiple thermal vias to achieve this rating. With θJC = 9°C/W, the EP enables efficient heat transfer from die to PCB - critical for sustaining 3A output at +125°C ambient without derating.