Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX77839CEWL+T

Overview

MAX77839CEWL+T from Analog Devices is a high-efficiency buck-boost DC-DC converter optimized for single-cell Li-ion and low-voltage battery chemistries (≥1.8V discharge), delivering up to 3A continuous output current with 6μA quiescent current. It operates across 1.8V–5.5V input and supports 2.3V–5.3V adjustable output via single resistor (RSEL), featuring 2.2MHz fixed-frequency PWM control and seamless buck/boost mode transition. It targets power pre-regulation in compact portable electronics requiring ultra-low IQ and small solution size.

For engineers reviewing the MAX77839CEWL+T datasheet, MAX77839CEWL+T pinout, MAX77839CEWL+T application, or MAX77839CEWL+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its 3.6A switching current limit (C/D option), FPWM GPIO configuration, 15-bump WLP package (2.07mm × 1.51mm), active output discharge, and integrated protections including UVLO, OVP, cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and thermal shutdown.

Technical Context

The MAX77839CEWL+T implements a four-switch H-bridge buck-boost topology with current-mode PWM control at 2.2MHz typical switching frequency, enabling fast transient response and small external components. Its control algorithm dynamically sequences four phases (Φ1–Φ4) to manage energy transfer between input and output, ensuring smooth mode transitions without discontinuity or voltage droop during VIN crossing VOUT.

It integrates dual inductor peak current limit options (3.6A typ for C/D variants), configurable GPIO for forced-PWM enable (not POK), and a single-resistor output voltage setting (RSEL) with 1% tolerance requirement. Internal bias generation, active output discharge (100Ω), and comprehensive protection circuitry-including undervoltage lockout (1.75V rising threshold), overvoltage detection (0.5V OUT–OUTS delta), and thermal shutdown (150°C) -support robust operation in battery-powered systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX77839CEWL+T uses a 15-bump wafer-level package (WLP), 2.07mm × 1.51mm, 0.4mm pitch, with bumps arranged in a 3×5 grid. The package is RoHS-compliant and designed for high-density PCB layouts with minimal footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar buck-boost regulator applications.

Compared with MAX77839AEWL+T, the MAX77839CEWL+T trades peak current capability for improved thermal performance and lower conduction losses at typical 2–3A loads; versus TPS63802DLAR, it delivers superior system integration with built-in FPWM control and active discharge-reducing BOM count and improving reliability in battery-critical designs.

Availability

MAX77839CEWL+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for asset tracking, smartphone sensor power, cellular modem regulation, and RF amplifier biasing requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX77839CEWL+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 (acquired Maxim Integrated in 2021) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer markets.

The MAX77839 product line delivers ultra-low-IQ buck-boost regulators for space-constrained, battery-powered portable electronics-designed specifically to extend runtime while maintaining tight regulation across wide input voltage ranges and dynamic load profiles.

FAQ

What is the switching current limit for MAX77839CEWL+T?

The MAX77839CEWL+T has a typical switching current limit of 3.6A, as defined in its "C" variant designation. This value represents the peak inductor current threshold used for cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection and determines minimum inductor saturation rating. Measured at +25°C, the limit ranges from 3.24A (min) to 3.96A (max) across temperature and process variation. This differs from the 4.4A limit in "A/B" variants.

Does MAX77839CEWL+T support forced-PWM mode?

Yes, MAX77839CEWL+T supports forced-PWM mode via its GPIO pin, which is configured as an FPWM input (per ordering code "C"). Driving GPIO high forces continuous PWM operation regardless of load current, eliminating skip-mode switching noise-essential for RF, audio, and optical sensor applications where spectral purity matters.

What package type does MAX77839CEWL+T use?

MAX77839CEWL+T uses a 15-bump wafer-level package (WLP) measuring 2.07mm × 1.51mm with 0.4mm pitch. This ultra-compact, RoHS-compliant package enables high-density layouts in smartphones, wearables, and IoT edge devices where board area is at a premium.

How is output voltage set on MAX77839CEWL+T?

Output voltage on MAX77839CEWL+T is set using a single external resistor (RSEL) connected between the SEL pin and AGND. The IC reads this resistance to determine target VOUT from 2.3V to 5.3V. For example, a 0Ω (short) yields 3.3V; a 768kΩ resistor yields 5.3V. A 1% tolerance resistor is required for ±1% output accuracy at no load.

What protections are integrated into MAX77839CEWL+T?

MAX77839CEWL+T integrates undervoltage lockout (UVLO, 1.75V rising threshold), overvoltage protection (OVP, 0.5V OUT–OUTS delta), cycle-by-cycle inductor peak current limiting, thermal shutdown (150°C), and active output discharge (100Ω internal switch). These features protect both the IC and downstream circuitry during abnormal conditions such as input brownout, output short, or thermal overload.