Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX26406AFOBY+T

Overview

MAX26406AFOBY+T from Analog Devices is a fully integrated, synchronous Silent Switcher® buck converter delivering up to 6A continuous output current with 3V–36V input range and fixed 5V or 3.3V output (or adjustable 0.8V–10V). It features 2.1MHz/400kHz fixed switching frequency, 10μA no-load quiescent current in skip mode, and 99% dropout duty cycle-designed for automotive infotainment power rails and industrial 24V point-of-load regulation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX26406AFOBY+T datasheet, MAX26406AFOBY+T pinout, MAX26406AFOBY+T application, or MAX26406AFOBY+T equivalent, key selection criteria include its FC2QFN-17 package thermal performance (θJB = 10.2°C/W), dual-phase VEA-synchronized current sharing, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and ±1% output accuracy in FPWM mode at no load.

Technical Context

The MAX26406AFOBY+T implements average current-mode control with internal slope compensation, enabling high noise immunity and stable operation across wide VIN/VOUT ratios. Its 33ns minimum on-time supports large step-down conversions (e.g., 24V→3.3V) without pulse skipping, while the MAXQ® power architecture delivers precise transient response and >60° phase margin.

Dual-phase operation is enabled via SYNCOUT (180° out-of-phase clock) and VEA (shared error amplifier node), supporting up to 12A combined output with <±3% dynamic current sharing accuracy. Forced-PWM and skip-mode are selected via SYNC pin logic level, and spread-spectrum modulation (±3% fSW) is factory-enabled to suppress radiated EMI peaks.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX26406AFOBY+T is housed in a 3.5mm × 3.75mm, 17-pin FC2QFN package with exposed thermal pad (pin 10 GND), symmetrical SUP/PGND layout for optimal EMI suppression, and pin-compatible footprint across the MAX26404/MAX26405/MAX26406 family.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM61460QWRNXTQ1 and MPQ4436AGL-AEC1-Z, the MAX26406AFOBY+T uniquely combines Silent Switcher® EMI suppression, factory-enabled spread-spectrum, and hardware-synchronized dual-phase operation via VEA/SYNCOUT-enabling compact, low-noise, high-current designs without external current-sharing ICs or complex layout mitigation.

Availability

MAX26406AFOBY+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment systems, industrial 24V PLCs, telecom remote radio units, and server BMC power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-aligned reliability.

Supply support for MAX26406AFOBY+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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets with precision power, signal chain, and RF solutions.

The MAX26406AFOBY+T belongs to Analog Devices' Silent Switcher® buck converter product line-engineered specifically for EMI-sensitive applications demanding high efficiency, small size, and automotive-grade robustness without external filtering.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the MAX26406AFOBY+T?

The MAX26406AFOBY+T is rated for 6A continuous output current under recommended thermal conditions (TA ≤ +125°C, 4-layer EV kit PCB, θJB = 10.2°C/W). This rating assumes proper layout with adequate copper pour on PGND and thermal pad soldering. Derating applies above +125°C ambient or with reduced copper area.

Does the MAX26406AFOBY+T support dual-phase operation, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the MAX26406AFOBY+T supports hardware-synchronized dual-phase operation using the VEA and SYNCOUT pins. One device acts as controller (SYNC pulled high), generating a 180° out-of-phase clock on SYNCOUT; the second acts as target (SYNCOUT connected to BIAS), with VEA pins tied together to enforce precise current sharing. No external current-sense amplifiers or timing ICs are needed.

What are the fixed output voltage options for the MAX26406AFOBY+T, and how is the output set?

The MAX26406AFOBY+T supports fixed 3.3V and 5.0V outputs by connecting the FB pin directly to the BIAS pin. For other voltages between 0.8V and 10V, an external resistor divider (RFB1 from OUT to FB, RFB2 from FB to GND) is used. The feedback regulation voltage is 0.800V ±1.6%, and RFB2 should be ≤100kΩ for stability.

How does the MAX26406AFOBY+T achieve low EMI performance without external filters?

The MAX26406AFOBY+T achieves low EMI through Silent Switcher® architecture: symmetrical, split VIN/PGND pin layout minimizes high-di/dt loop area; integrated dual-loop control reduces switching node ringing; and optional spread-spectrum modulation (±3% fSW) spreads energy across a bandwidth to lower peak emissions-enabling compliance with CISPR 25 Class 5 without ferrite beads or metal shields.

What protection features are integrated into the MAX26406AFOBY+T?

The MAX26406AFOBY+T integrates overtemperature shutdown (165°C, 20°C hysteresis), input undervoltage lockout (SUP UVLO: 2.725V falling), BIAS UVLO (1.58V), hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and cycle-by-cycle current limiting. During hard short, it enters 25ms off-time hiccup mode with automatic soft-start recovery-preventing thermal runaway and enabling self-recovery without system intervention.