Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38803HCJ+T

Overview

The MAX38803HCJ+T from Maxim Integrated is a fully-integrated, 25A step-down switching regulator designed for high-efficiency point-of-load power delivery in 6.5V–14V input systems. It delivers precision output voltage (0.6V–5.5V), supports programmable switching frequency up to 1MHz, enables discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) for light-load efficiency, and integrates analog current/temperature telemetry with ±2A and ±4°C accuracy. It serves as the core PoL regulator for GPU core supplies and DDR memory rails.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38803HCJ+T datasheet, MAX38803HCJ+T pinout, MAX38803HCJ+T application, or MAX38803HCJ+T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed protection thresholds (OCP ±24A, OVP +13%, OTP 140°C), package-validated thermal resistance (θJA = 19°C/W), and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for PoL design continuity.

Technical Context

The MAX38803HCJ+T employs Maxim's Quick-PWM™ architecture-a pseudo-fixed-frequency, constant-on-time, current-mode controller with voltage feed-forward-enabling fast transient response while maintaining stable switching frequency across wide VIN/VOUT ratios. Its valley-current sensing eliminates ESR dependency on output capacitors and ensures stability with ceramic-only designs.

It implements dual-cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection (±24A threshold), differential remote sense with open-circuit detection, adaptive dead-time control, and percentage-based output voltage monitoring (PWRGD ±6%, OVP +13%). The PGM pin configures reference voltage, soft-start timing, switching frequency, and OCP level via resistor-capacitor strapping per Table 3a.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX38803HCJ+T is housed in a 27-bump WLCSP package (2.2mm × 3.8mm), optimized for low thermal resistance (θJC = 0.75°C/W) and minimal PCB footprint. Bumps are arranged in a 7×4 grid (A–G rows, 1–4 columns) with dedicated power, signal, and ground terminals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX38802HCJ+T, the MAX38803HCJ+T offers greater configuration flexibility for reference, OCP, and soft-start-critical for DDR VTT and GPU core tuning-while TPS546B24RVFT trades integration for higher current and digital control, increasing BOM cost and layout complexity.

Availability

The MAX38803HCJ+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPU core supply, DDR memory rail (VDDQ/VPP/VTT), and server chipset applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX38803HCJ+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 communication applications in demanding environments.

The MAX38802/MAX38803 product line targets high-density, high-efficiency point-of-load regulation in datacenter and computing infrastructure-specifically addressing thermal, size, and transient-response constraints in GPU, memory, and chipset power delivery.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current capability of the MAX38803HCJ+T?

The MAX38803HCJ+T delivers 25A continuous output current and supports 40A peak current. This rating is validated across the full operating temperature range (0°C to +125°C junction) with 200LFM airflow and no heatsink, per the SOA curves in the datasheet. Derating applies at higher ambient temperatures or lower airflow; the device enters thermal shutdown at 140°C junction temperature.

Does the MAX38803HCJ+T support remote voltage sensing?

Yes, the MAX38803HCJ+T supports true differential remote sensing via dedicated SENSE+ and SENSE− pins. This allows Kelvin connections directly at the load to eliminate PCB trace IR drop errors. The architecture includes open-circuit detection on both sense lines and maintains ±0.5% load regulation accuracy even with up to 20mΩ interconnect resistance between IC and load.

How is the switching frequency programmed on the MAX38803HCJ+T?

The MAX38803HCJ+T uses the PGM pin with an external resistor (R_SEL) to select one of twelve discrete switching frequencies from 300kHz to 1MHz. R_SEL values range from 1.78kΩ to 162kΩ, with ±1% tolerance required. The selected frequency is latched at startup and remains fixed until power cycle; no dynamic adjustment is supported during operation.

What protection features does the MAX38803HCJ+T include?

The MAX38803HCJ+T integrates cycle-by-cycle positive and negative overcurrent protection (±24A), input undervoltage/overvoltage lockout (UVLO 5.8V / OVLO 14.8V), output overvoltage protection (+13%), overtemperature shutdown (140°C), and output undervoltage detection. All protections assert the open-drain STAT pin low and latch until OE is toggled or input power cycles.

Can the MAX38803HCJ+T report output current or temperature?

Yes, the PGM pin serves dual function: during normal operation it reports either analog output current (0–25A range, ±2A accuracy) or junction temperature (0°C–125°C, ±4°C accuracy), selectable via external capacitor (C_SEL). No external ADC or sensor is required-this telemetry signal can be routed directly to a system microcontroller for real-time monitoring.