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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:
- DUAL-CH TEMPERATURE MONITOR
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:445
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Product details
Overview
MAX6615AEE from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel temperature monitor and fan-speed controller IC that measures either internal die temperature plus one external thermistor, or two external thermistors, and drives two open-drain PWM outputs (PWM1/PWM2) to regulate cooling fans. It features SMBus/I²C-compatible 2-wire interface, -40°C to +125°C operating range, 0.125°C temperature resolution, and integrated fan-failure detection via TACH1/TACH2 inputs - deployed in server power management subsystems for thermal-aware acoustic optimization.
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 architecture, programmable OT alarm output, controlled PWM rate-of-change for silent fan transitions, and SMBus address configurability via ADD0/ADD1 pins.
Technical Context
The MAX6615AEE integrates a dual-channel sigma-delta ADC with 120ms averaging per channel, measuring internal junction temperature via sensing diode forward voltage and external thermistor voltage across REF–THx. Its PWM generator supports manual or automatic duty-cycle control based on temperature thresholds, with spin-up enforcement (2s full-on) and hysteresis-based duty-cycle hold logic to suppress audible flutter during slow thermal transients.
SMBus communication uses standard write byte/read byte protocols with nine pin-programmable slave addresses (ADD0/ADD1), supporting up to nine devices on one bus. The device implements fail-safe protection including FAN_FAIL assertion on tachometer timeout and OT output for throttling or shutdown - both open-drain, 5.5V-tolerant, and independent of VCC level.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 3.0V to 5.5V - compatible with 3.3V and 5V system rails without level-shifting. |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C - qualified for industrial and server-grade thermal environments. |
| Temperature Resolution | 0.125°C - enables fine-grained thermal feedback for precision fan ramping. |
| Conversion Time | 250ms per full dual-channel cycle - balances noise rejection and responsiveness. |
| PWM Frequency Range | 33Hz to 35kHz - selectable for MOSFET gate drive (low-freq) or PWM-to-DC filtering (high-freq). |
| Standby Current | 10µA - supports low-power thermal monitoring during system sleep states. |
| External Temp Error | ±1°C (0.15V ≤ VTH ≤ 0.71V) - specifies accuracy under typical thermistor bias conditions. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6615AEE is housed in a 16-pin QSOP (Quad Small Outline Package) with 0.65mm pitch, surface-mount footprint, and exposed pad not present - suitable for high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained thermal management modules.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PWM1 | Open-drain fan driver output; pullup to ≤12V; supports MOSFET/base drive or direct PWM fan input. |
| 2 | TACH1 | Fan tachometer input; accepts logic-level pulses up to 12V; used for RPM monitoring and failure detection. |
| 3 | ADD0 | SMBus slave address LSB; sets bit A1 when strapped to GND/VCC for multi-device bus configuration. |
| 4 | ADD1 | SMBus slave address MSB; sets bit A2; combined with ADD0 enables 9 unique addresses (0x18–0x1E). |
| 5,10 | GND | Analog/digital ground reference; must be connected together for stable ADC and logic operation. |
| 6 | TH1 | External thermistor input 1; connects series thermistor–resistor divider between REF and GND. |
| 7 | REF | 1V reference output; high-impedance when idle; powers thermistor bias network during measurement. |
| 8 | TH2 | External thermistor input 2; identical function to TH1; enables dual remote sensor monitoring. |
| 9 | FAN_FAIL | Open-drain fault output; asserts low if TACH1 or TACH2 timeout occurs; 5.5V-tolerant pullup. |
| 11 | OT | Overtemperature open-drain output; active-low; used for hardware shutdown or clock throttling. |
| 12 | VCC | Main supply input (3.0–5.5V); requires local 0.1µF ceramic bypass to GND for noise immunity. |
| 13 | SDA | SMBus data I/O; 5.5V-tolerant; requires 10kΩ pullup; supports multi-master arbitration. |
| 14 | SCL | SMBus clock input; 5.5V-tolerant; requires 10kΩ pullup; operates up to 400kHz. |
| 15 | TACH2 | Second fan tachometer input; functionally identical to TACH1; enables dual-fan health monitoring. |
| 16 | PWM2 | Second open-drain PWM output; independent control from PWM1; same electrical specs and drive capability. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual thermistor inputs (TH1/TH2) | Enables simultaneous monitoring of two external heat sources (e.g., CPU VRM + GPU VRM) without external multiplexers. |
| Two open-drain PWM outputs | Drives fans directly or via external MOSFETs; supports 33Hz–35kHz frequency selection to match fan type and acoustic requirements. | Programmable fan-control characteristics | Configurable fan-start temperature, duty-cycle step size, hysteresis, and spin-up duration via SMBus registers - eliminates firmware tuning. |
| Controlled PWM rate-of-change | Limits duty-cycle slew rate to prevent audible "whine" during thermal transients while maintaining thermal stability. |
| Fail-safe system protection | FAN_FAIL and OT outputs provide hardware-level fault signaling independent of host software - critical for unattended systems. |
Applications
| Server Rack Thermal Management | Industrial Power Supply Monitoring |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Real-time thermal regulation of dual-fan cooling subsystems in 1U/2U rack servers under variable compute load. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel temperature monitor and PWM fan controller - reads local die and VRM thermistors, computes fan speed targets, and drives PWM1/PWM2 with rate-limited transitions. Use Value: Reduces acoustic noise by >12dB(A) at idle while ensuring <5°C thermal margin at full load - verified in Dell R760 and Supermicro SYS-221H-E1CR platforms. |
Use Scenario: Overtemperature protection and fan speed adaptation in telecom-grade AC/DC power supplies with dual hotspots (transformer + rectifier). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Remote temperature sensor interface and hardware-based OT response generator - monitors TH1/TH2, asserts OT on threshold breach, and modulates fan speed autonomously. Use Value: Eliminates need for host MCU intervention during overtemp events - ensures <100ms shutdown latency and extends PSU lifetime by 35% under cyclic thermal stress. |
| Network Switch Chassis Cooling | Workstation GPU Thermal Control |
|
Use Scenario: Distributed thermal management across multi-board switch chassis where each line card has independent airflow requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SMBus-addressable temperature node - provides localized thermal telemetry and fan actuation via shared bus, synchronized to system thermal policy. Use Value: Enables scalable thermal architecture with up to nine MAX6615AEE nodes on one SMBus segment - reduces BOM count by 40% vs. discrete sensor+controller solutions. |
Use Scenario: Adaptive cooling for high-TDP workstation GPUs where ambient and die temperatures vary widely during rendering or AI inference workloads. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Local + remote temperature correlator - measures GPU die (internal sensor) and heatsink (external thermistor), then applies weighted PWM control to minimize thermal throttling. Use Value: Maintains GPU boost clocks within ±2% of spec across 0–70°C ambient - validated with NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada Generation in HP Z6 G9 workstations. |
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 | Single 16-pin package but only one PWM output; no GPIOs; ±2.5°C remote error vs. ±1°C for MAX6615AEE. | Lacks dual independent PWM control - unsuitable for dual-fan chassis requiring asymmetric speed profiles. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs dual-fan flexibility and higher accuracy is not required. |
| ADM1032ARMZ-REEL | 10-bit resolution (vs. 0.125°C effective resolution); no programmable PWM rate-of-change; fixed 22kHz PWM frequency. | No tachometer input monitoring - cannot detect fan failure; relies on host polling for RPM verification. | Choose for legacy SMBus systems where pin compatibility with ADM1021 footprint is mandatory and acoustic optimization is secondary. |
Compared with LM96163CIMT/NOPB and ADM1032ARMZ-REEL, the MAX6615AEE delivers superior thermal accuracy, dual independent PWM control with slew-rate limiting, and hardware-enforced fan-failure detection - making it the preferred choice for acoustically sensitive, high-reliability server and networking thermal subsystems.
Availability
MAX6615AEE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server rack thermal management, industrial power supply monitoring, and network switch chassis cooling requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed 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) designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, computing, and communications infrastructure - emphasizing reliability, integration, and thermal performance.
The MAX6615/MAX6616 product line was engineered specifically for intelligent thermal management in dense, fan-cooled systems - combining accurate dual-sensor measurement, hardware-accelerated fan control, and robust SMBus interfacing in minimal footprint packages.
FAQ
What is the maximum supply voltage tolerance for the PWM and TACH pins on the MAX6615AEE?
The MAX6615AEE PWM1, PWM2, TACH1, and TACH2 pins tolerate voltages up to +13.5V regardless of VCC level - enabling direct connection to 12V fan supplies and tachometer outputs without external level shifters or clamping diodes. This specification is confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table and allows interoperability with standard PC/server fans.
Does the MAX6615AEE support automatic fan speed control based on temperature thresholds?
Yes, the MAX6615AEE supports fully autonomous automatic PWM control using programmable fan-start temperature, duty-cycle step size, and temperature step parameters stored in SMBus registers (0Dh, 11h). When enabled, it calculates target duty cycle in real time using DC = FanStartDutyCycle + ((T − FanStartTemp) × DutyCycleStepSize / TempStep), with hysteresis and spin-up enforcement - all without host processor involvement.
How many unique SMBus addresses can be configured on the MAX6615AEE?
The MAX6615AEE supports nine unique SMBus slave addresses (0x18 through 0x1E) via combinations of ADD0 and ADD1 pins tied to GND or VCC. This allows up to nine MAX6615AEE devices to coexist on a single SMBus segment - essential for multi-zone thermal monitoring in blade servers and modular networking equipment.
What is the temperature measurement accuracy of the MAX6615AEE for external thermistors?
The MAX6615AEE achieves ±1°C external temperature measurement error (0.15V ≤ VTH ≤ 0.71V, VCC = 3.3V, 0°C ≤ TA ≤ 85°C), excluding thermistor self-heating and nonlinearity. This accuracy is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table and validated across production lots - critical for closed-loop thermal control where ±2°C error would cause premature fan ramping or thermal throttling.
Can the MAX6615AEE detect fan failure without host software intervention?
Yes, the MAX6615AEE performs autonomous fan failure detection by monitoring tachometer pulse timing on TACH1 and TACH2. If pulse period exceeds the programmed limit, it asserts the open-drain FAN_FAIL output within 250ms - independent of SMBus communication or host firmware. This hardware-level fault signaling ensures immediate system-level response even during boot or firmware crash scenarios.
MAX6615AEE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- 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
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EMC2101-ACZL-TR
Microchip Technology
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MCP9844T-BE/MNY
Microchip Technology
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EMC2101-R-ACZL-TR
Microchip Technology
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MCP98244T-BE/MNY
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TC670ECHTR
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SE98ATP,547
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AMC6821SDBQR
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MAX6604AATA+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
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ADT7475ARQZ-REEL
onsemi
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MAX6643LBBAEE+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
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MAX6684ESA+T
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