Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX619CPA+

Overview

The MAX619CPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a regulated 5V ±4% charge-pump DC-DC converter designed for low-noise, inductorless voltage boosting in space-constrained battery-powered systems. It operates from 2V to 3.6V input (e.g., two alkaline or NiMH cells), delivers up to 50mA output current at ≥3V input, features 500kHz internal oscillator, and achieves 80% typical efficiency at 2V/20mA.

For engineers reviewing the MAX619CPA+ datasheet, MAX619CPA+ pinout, MAX619CPA+ application, or MAX619CPA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its shutdown-controlled load disconnection, ultra-low 1µA max shutdown current, 0.1in² minimal footprint with only four external capacitors, and guaranteed output current over temperature across 0°C to +70°C industrial range.

Technical Context

The MAX619CPA+ implements a pulse-skipping control architecture that dynamically selects between voltage-doubling (VIN = 3.0–3.6V), voltage-tripling (VIN = 2.0–2.5V), or 2.5× mode (VIN = 2.5–3.0V) to maintain regulation and maximize efficiency across its full 2V–3.6V input range. Internal circuitry is powered from the higher of VIN or VOUT to sustain operation during low-input conditions.

It uses two flying capacitors (C1, C2) and dual 10µF input/output bulk capacitors to generate regulated 5V without magnetic components. The SHDN pin provides CMOS-compatible active-high logic control, disconnecting OUT from IN in shutdown and reducing supply current to ≤1µA while sinking no load current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX619CPA+ is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), with through-hole mounting and industry-standard lead spacing. Pin assignments are fully compatible with SO-package variants (e.g., MAX619CSA+) for layout reuse where board thickness permits.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar regulated charge-pump DC-DC converter applications.

Compared with MAX680CPA+ and TPS60403DBVR, the MAX619CPA+ uniquely combines guaranteed 50mA output at 2V input, true load-disconnect shutdown, and minimal 0.1in² solution size-making it optimal for compact, battery-critical instrumentation where every µA and mm² matters.

Availability

The MAX619CPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instruments & handy-terminals, battery-powered microprocessor-based systems, and 5V flash memory programmers requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and consistent parametric performance across production lots.

Supply support for MAX619CPA+ 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, medical, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX619CPA+ belongs to Maxim's precision charge-pump DC-DC converter product line, engineered specifically for ultra-compact, low-EMI, battery-fed 5V generation in handheld and remote instrumentation where inductor-free design is essential.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for the MAX619CPA+ to regulate 5V output?

The MAX619CPA+ begins regulating 5V output at 2.0V input. At VIN = 2.0V, it guarantees 20mA output current with ±4% accuracy across 0°C to +70°C. Below 2.0V, regulation is not maintained. This 2V start-up threshold makes the MAX619CPA+ suitable for deeply discharged two-cell battery systems where other converters fail.

Does the MAX619CPA+ provide short-circuit protection?

No, the MAX619CPA+ is not short-circuit protected, as explicitly stated in the datasheet Absolute Maximum Ratings note. Under sustained short-circuit conditions, output current is limited only by internal switch resistance and external capacitor ESR, potentially leading to thermal overstress. External current limiting or fuse protection is recommended in safety-critical designs using MAX619CPA+.

Can the MAX619CPA+ be used with ceramic input and output capacitors smaller than 10µF?

Yes-the MAX619CPA+ supports reduced capacitance with ceramics: C3 (input) can be 2µF and C4 (output) can be 1µF when using low-ESR ceramic capacitors. This is validated in the Applications Information section. However, aluminum electrolytics or tantalums still require ≥10µF per the datasheet to ensure stability and ripple performance under full load.

What is the purpose of the C1− and C2− pins on the MAX619CPA+?

The C1− and C2− pins on the MAX619CPA+ serve as dedicated negative terminals for the two external flying capacitors (C1 and C2). They connect directly to internal switching nodes and are essential for proper charge transfer in both voltage-doubling and voltage-tripling modes. Incorrect routing or shared grounding of C1−/C2− degrades efficiency and increases output ripple in the MAX619CPA+.

How does the MAX619CPA+ achieve 80% efficiency at 2V input when most charge pumps drop below 70%?

The MAX619CPA+ achieves 80% typical efficiency at 2V/20mA by combining three techniques: dynamic mode selection (tripler mode at low VIN), optimized internal switch resistance, and intelligent power routing that selects the higher of VIN or VOUT to power internal circuitry. These features minimize conduction and switching losses-distinctive to the MAX619CPA+ architecture versus generic charge-pump ICs.