Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6615AEE+
- Part No.:
- MAX6615AEE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Thermal Management
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6615AEE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC TEMP MONITOR DL-CH 16-QSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:753
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX6615AEE+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel temperature monitor and fan-speed controller IC that measures internal die temperature and one external thermistor (or two external thermistors), drives two open-drain PWM outputs for fan control, monitors tachometer inputs for fan failure detection, and communicates via SMBus/I²C interface. It operates from 3.0V to 5.5V, consumes 500µA typical supply current, and supports industrial temperature range (–40°C to +125°C) - used in server thermal management subsystems to dynamically regulate cooling while minimizing acoustic noise.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6615AEE+ datasheet, MAX6615AEE+ pinout, MAX6615AEE+ application, or MAX6615AEE+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 16-pin QSOP package, dual thermistor input capability, programmable PWM rate-of-change for silent fan transitions, fail-safe FAN_FAIL and OT outputs, and SMBus address configurability across nine options - all critical for embedded thermal control in space-constrained, high-reliability systems.
Technical Context
The MAX6615AEE+ integrates a 120ms-averaging ADC with dedicated reference voltage (1V REF output), supporting simultaneous local and remote temperature measurement with ±1°C external error (0.15V–0.71V TH_ range) and ±4°C internal die error over full operating range. Its SMBus interface implements write byte, read byte, send byte, and receive byte protocols at up to 400kHz clock frequency, with built-in timeout (29–55ms) and 9 configurable slave addresses.
It features two independent PWM generators with programmable frequency (33Hz to 35kHz), manual/automatic duty-cycle control, spin-up enforcement (2s full-on), and rate-of-change limiting to suppress audible fan speed transients. Fan failure detection uses tachometer pulse counting against programmable limits, triggering FAN_FAIL assertion only after two consecutive failed measurements.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 3.0V to 5.5V - compatible with standard 3.3V and 5V system rails without level-shifting. |
| Operating Current | 500µA typical - enables low-power thermal monitoring in always-on subsystems. |
| Temperature Resolution | 0.125°C - supports fine-grained thermal response in precision cooling applications. |
| External Temp Error | ±1°C (0.15V–0.71V TH_ range) - ensures accurate thermistor-based ambient/sink sensing. |
| PWM Frequency Range | 33Hz to 35kHz - selectable for MOSFET gate drive (low-freq) or PWM-to-DC conversion (high-freq). |
| SMBus Clock Max | 400kHz - matches standard fast-mode I²C timing for high-throughput register access. |
| Conversion Time | 250ms per full dual-channel cycle - balances noise rejection and update latency for thermal loop stability. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6615AEE+ is housed in a 16-pin QSOP (Quad Small Outline Package) with 0.15mm lead pitch and exposed pad for thermal dissipation - footprint-compatible with industry-standard 16-pin thermal sensor controllers and suitable for reflow assembly.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PWM1 | Open-drain fan driver output - supports pullup to 12V regardless of VCC; drives n-MOSFET gate or fan PWM input directly. |
| 2 | TACH1 | Fan tachometer input - accepts logic-level pulses up to 12V; enables RPM monitoring and failure detection. |
| 3 | ADD0 | SMBus address LSB - sets device address with ADD1; allows up to nine devices on same bus. |
| 4 | ADD1 | SMBus address MSB - used with ADD0 for nine unique slave addresses (0x18–0x1E, 0x48–0x4E). |
| 5,10 | GND | Ground reference - must be connected together; serves as return path for REF, TH1, TH2, and digital logic. |
| 6 | TH1 | External thermistor input 1 - connects series thermistor/REXT network to REF; enables remote temperature sensing. |
| 7 | REF | 1V reference output - high-impedance during idle; powers thermistor divider network during measurement. |
| 8 | TH2 | External thermistor input 2 - identical function to TH1; supports dual remote sensing or local+remote configuration. |
| 9 | FAN_FAIL | Open-drain fan failure indicator - asserts low on dual tachometer failures; pullup to 5.5V supported. |
| 11 | OT | Overtemperature output - active-low, open-drain; triggers system shutdown or clock throttling when thresholds exceeded. |
| 12 | VCC | Power supply input - 3.0V–5.5V operation; requires 0.1µF bypass capacitor to GND for noise immunity. |
| 13 | SDA | SMBus data I/O - bidirectional, open-drain; pullup to 5.5V allowed; high-impedance when VCC = 0V. |
| 14 | SCL | SMBus clock input - open-drain; pullup to 5.5V allowed; synchronizes register reads/writes. |
| 15 | TACH2 | Second fan tachometer input - identical to TACH1; enables dual-fan health monitoring. |
| 16 | PWM2 | Second open-drain fan driver - independent of PWM1; supports redundant or multi-zone cooling control. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual thermistor inputs (TH1/TH2) | Enables simultaneous monitoring of two remote locations (e.g., CPU heatsink + power supply) without external ADCs. |
| Controlled PWM rate-of-change | Prevents abrupt fan speed shifts - eliminates audible "whine" during thermal transients in quiet environments. |
| Fail-safe FAN_FAIL and OT outputs | Provides hardware-level fault signaling independent of firmware - critical for safety-critical thermal shutdown paths. |
| Programmable SMBus addresses (9 options) | Eliminates bus conflicts in multi-sensor systems (e.g., 4U server with 8+ thermal zones). |
| 250ms dual-channel conversion time | Optimizes thermal loop responsiveness while maintaining >60dB noise rejection via 120ms ADC integration. |
| Spin-up enforcement (2s full-on) | Guarantees reliable fan startup from stall condition - avoids undetected fan lockup in cold-start scenarios. |
Applications
| Server Rack Thermal Management | High-Density Power Supply Monitoring |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time thermal regulation across multiple CPUs, GPUs, and VRMs in 1U/2U rack servers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel temperature monitor and PWM fan controller - acquires local die and heatsink temperatures, computes fan speed targets, and drives PWM outputs with hysteresis and rate limiting. Use Value: Reduces acoustic noise by 8–12dB(A) during low-load operation while preventing thermal throttling under burst workloads via 0.125°C resolution and 250ms update rate. |
Use Scenario: Overtemperature protection and cooling control in telecom-grade AC/DC and DC/DC power modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Remote temperature sensor and fail-safe controller - measures transformer/inductor and MOSFET junction temperatures, asserts OT for immediate shutdown if >110°C, and modulates fan speed to maintain <85°C hotspot. Use Value: Extends power module lifetime by 35% (per Arrhenius model) through precise thermal derating and eliminates field failures from undetected fan stall via dual tachometer validation. |
| Network Switch Chassis Cooling | Workstation GPU Thermal Control |
Use Scenario: Distributed thermal management across line cards, fabric modules, and management controllers in modular L2/L3 switches. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SMBus-addressable thermal node - provides localized temperature telemetry and fan control per slot, coordinated via centralized BMC. Use Value: Enables hot-swappable module thermal autonomy - each MAX6615AEE+ independently regulates its fan pair without BMC polling overhead, reducing system bus traffic by 40%. |
Use Scenario: Adaptive cooling for high-TDP discrete GPUs in professional workstations under variable rendering loads. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-input thermal supervisor - monitors GPU die (via internal sensor) and VRM MOSFETs (via TH1 thermistor), driving two PWM fans with independent start temps and max duty cycles. Use Value: Maintains GPU junction <83°C during 100% load while keeping acoustic output <28dB(A) at idle - achieved via programmable fan-start temp (45°C) and 5°C hysteresis. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel temperature monitoring and fan control applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM96163CIMT/NOPB | 3.3V-only supply (no 5V support); single PWM output; no GPIOs; ±2°C remote error (vs. ±1°C). | Lacks dual PWM and tach monitoring - requires external circuitry for second fan control and failure detection. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs dual-fan capability and 5V compatibility is unnecessary. |
| ADM1032ARMZ-REEL | Single remote channel only; no TH2 input; 12-bit resolution (0.25°C) vs. 0.125°C; SMBus timeout not specified. | Cannot monitor two remote points simultaneously - unsuitable for multi-zone chassis designs requiring independent sensor pairs. | Choose only for legacy designs where single-point thermal feedback suffices and board space is extremely constrained. |
Compared with LM96163CIMT/NOPB and ADM1032ARMZ-REEL, the MAX6615AEE+ delivers superior thermal fidelity (0.125°C resolution, ±1°C error), native dual-fan support with integrated tach validation, and flexible 3.0–5.5V operation - making it the optimal choice for new server, networking, and workstation platforms demanding robust, scalable thermal management.
Availability
MAX6615AEE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server thermal management, high-density power supply monitoring, and network switch chassis cooling requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MAX6615AEE+ 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, computing, and communications markets.
The MAX6615AEE+ belongs to Maxim's precision thermal monitoring product line, designed specifically for intelligent fan control in high-reliability computing infrastructure where acoustic performance, fault resilience, and SMBus scalability are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable voltage on the PWM1 and PWM2 pins of the MAX6615AEE+?
The MAX6615AEE+ PWM1 and PWM2 pins are open-drain outputs rated for pullup voltages up to 12V, independent of the VCC supply voltage. This allows direct interfacing with higher-voltage fan supplies (e.g., 12V DC fans) without external level-shifting components. The absolute maximum rating for these pins is +13.5V, but sustained operation above 12V is not recommended per the datasheet's design guidance. Always use an appropriate current-limiting pullup resistor sized for the target fan voltage and MAX6615AEE+ sink capability (6mA min at 0.4V VOL).
Does the MAX6615AEE+ support both local (die) and remote (thermistor) temperature sensing simultaneously?
Yes, the MAX6615AEE+ supports simultaneous local and remote temperature sensing: its internal die sensor is always active, and TH1 can be configured to read an external thermistor. While TH2 is physically present, the MAX6615AEE+ variant (16-pin) does not enable dual-remote mode - it uses TH2 exclusively for the second remote channel or as an alternative local sensor input depending on configuration bit D2 in register 02h. Full dual-remote capability (TH1 + TH2) is reserved for the MAX6616AEG (24-pin) variant.
How does the MAX6615AEE+ detect and respond to fan failure?
The MAX6615AEE+ detects fan failure by monitoring tachometer pulses on TACH1 and TACH2 inputs. If the measured pulse count falls below a programmable threshold over two consecutive conversions, the device asserts the open-drain FAN_FAIL output low. Concurrently, it drives the corresponding PWM output at 100% duty cycle for ~2 seconds to attempt fan restart before final assertion. The FAN_FAIL signal remains active until cleared via SMBus register read or mask disable - providing deterministic hardware-level fault signaling for system-level watchdog or shutdown logic.
What SMBus addresses are available for the MAX6615AEE+ and how are they selected?
The MAX6615AEE+ supports nine unique SMBus slave addresses: 0x18, 0x19, 0x1A, 0x1B, 0x1C, 0x1D, 0x1E, 0x48, and 0x4E. These are selected by hardwiring ADD0 (pin 3) and ADD1 (pin 4) to GND or VCC - with three states per pin (GND, VCC, or floating), yielding nine combinations. The address is latched internally after power-on reset and rechecked periodically to support dynamic reconfiguration. This enables up to nine MAX6615AEE+ devices on a single SMBus without address collision.
Can the MAX6615AEE+ operate with a 5.0V supply, and what is its typical supply current at that voltage?
Yes, the MAX6615AEE+ operates across 3.0V to 5.5V, fully supporting 5.0V nominal supply. At VCC = 5.0V and TA = +25°C, its typical operating supply current is 500µA - consistent across the entire voltage range per the Electrical Characteristics table. Standby current drops to 10µA when the interface is inactive and ADC is idle, enabling ultra-low-power thermal supervision during system sleep states.
MAX6615AEE+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Fan Control, Temp Monitor
- Sensor Type:
- Internal and External
- Sensing Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Accuracy:
- ±4°C(Max)
- Topology:
- ADC, PWM Generator, Tach Counter
- Output Type:
- SMBus
- Output Alarm:
- Yes
- Output Fan:
- Yes
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QSOP
MAX6615AEE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6615AEE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6615AEE+ 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 MAX6615AEE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6615AEE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6615AEE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6615AEE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6615AEE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6615AEE+?
MAX6615AEE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6615AEE+ 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 MAX6615AEE+?
For technical support, including MAX6615AEE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6615AEE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6615AEE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6615AEE+ 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 MAX6615AEE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6615AEE+?
All MAX6615AEE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6615AEE+, 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 MAX6615AEE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6615AEE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX6615AEE+ Tags

-
EMC2101-ACZL-TR
Microchip Technology

-
MCP9844T-BE/MNY
Microchip Technology

-
EMC2101-R-ACZL-TR
Microchip Technology

-
MCP98244T-BE/MNY
Microchip Technology

-
TC670ECHTR
Microchip Technology
-
SE98ATP,547
NXP Semiconductors

-
AMC6821SDBQR
Texas Instruments

-
MAX6604AATA+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

-
ADT7475ARQZ-REEL
onsemi

-
MAX6643LBBAEE+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
MAX6684ESA+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

-
MAX6639AEE+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
