Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8668ETEQ+
- Part No.:
- MAX8668ETEQ+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Voltage Regulators - Linear + Switching
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX8668ETEQ+.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG QUAD BUCK/LNR SYNC 16TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,867
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Product details
Overview
MAX8668ETEQ+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual step-down DC-DC converter with dual low-noise LDO regulators, designed to power microprocessors and DSPs in portable electronics. It delivers 600mA on OUT1 and 1200mA on OUT2, supports adjustable output voltages from 0.6V to 3.3V, operates at 1.5MHz, and achieves 100µA no-load supply current with all outputs enabled - enabling compact, high-efficiency power delivery in smartphones and digital cameras.
For engineers reviewing the MAX8668ETEQ+ datasheet, MAX8668ETEQ+ pinout, MAX8668ETEQ+ application, or MAX8668ETEQ+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual adjustable buck architecture, individual enable inputs per regulator, 1.5MHz hysteretic-PWM control, LDO dropout down to 1.7V input, and thermal shutdown at +160°C - all integrated in a 3mm × 3mm thin QFN package.
Technical Context
The MAX8668ETEQ+ implements a proprietary hysteretic-PWM control scheme for fixed-frequency ~1.5MHz switching, minimizing external component count while maintaining fast transient response. Its dual buck stages use internal p-channel high-side switches and synchronous n-channel rectifiers - eliminating external Schottky diodes and reducing conduction loss.
Each of the two LDOs (OUT3/OUT4) features factory-set 300mA output, 250mV max dropout at full load, and independent EN3/EN4 enables. Voltage positioning on OUT1/OUT2 is implemented via FB1/FB2 feedback networks sensing the LX node, allowing controlled output droop to improve transient load regulation without increasing output capacitance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Switching Frequency | 1.5MHz - enables use of tiny 2.2µH chip inductors and reduces EMI filtering burden. |
| OUT1 Output Current | 600mA guaranteed - sufficient for core voltage of low-power microprocessors. |
| OUT2 Output Current | 1200mA guaranteed - supports I/O or memory rails in portable SoC designs. |
| Adjustable Output Range | 0.6V to 3.3V - covers typical core, I/O, and interface supply requirements for modern DSPs and ASICs. |
| No-Load Supply Current | 100µA with all regulators enabled - extends battery life in always-on subsystems. |
| LDO Dropout Voltage | 250mV max at 300mA - allows operation from 1.7V input to generate 1.45V+ outputs. |
| Thermal Shutdown | +160°C threshold with 15°C hysteresis - provides robust protection during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design. |
Pinout & Package
The MAX8668ETEQ+ is housed in a 16-pin, 3mm × 3mm thin QFN package with exposed paddle (EP), requiring connection to GND, PGND1, and PGND2 for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| EN1, EN2, EN3, EN4 | Individual enable inputs | Allow independent sequencing of each regulator; driven high to activate, low to enter ultra-low-quiescent shutdown (<1µA). |
| FB1, FB2 | Feedback inputs for OUT1/OUT2 | Connect to resistor divider from LX node to set adjustable output voltage and implement voltage positioning. |
| LX1, LX2 | Switch-node connections | Drive external 2.2µH inductors; contain internal clamp diodes to GND and IN12 - must respect absolute max ratings. |
| PGND1, PGND2 | Power ground returns | Separate low-impedance paths for buck converter return currents - must be tied to EP and system GND with minimal trace inductance. |
| IN12, IN34 | Input supplies | IN12 (2.6–5.5V) powers buck stages; IN34 (1.7–5.5V) powers LDOs - IN34 must not exceed IN12. |
| REF | Internal reference output | 0.600V ±1% reference; bypassed with 0.01µF ceramic capacitor - used for precision feedback and external biasing. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hysteretic-PWM Control | Enables stable 1.5MHz operation without external compensation, reducing BOM count and layout sensitivity. |
| Voltage Positioning | FB sensing at LX node allows intentional output droop matching inductor DCR - improves transient response and cuts required output capacitance by up to 30%. |
| Synchronous Rectification | Eliminates need for external Schottky diodes on both buck stages - increases light-load efficiency and reduces thermal footprint. |
| Ultra-Low Quiescent Current | 100µA total supply current with all four regulators active - critical for standby power budget in battery-powered devices. |
| Independent Enable Logic | Four dedicated EN pins support arbitrary power-up/down sequencing - essential for meeting processor-specific AVS or rail-ordering requirements. |
Applications
| Smartphone Application | Digital Camera Application |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering application processor core (VDD_CORE), I/O bank (VDD_IO), and image sensor interface in a 4G/LTE smartphone. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual buck regulators supply dynamically scaled core and I/O voltages; dual LDOs deliver clean, low-noise power to analog camera interface and RF front-end. Use Value: 1.5MHz switching avoids AM radio band interference; voltage positioning minimizes output voltage deviation during CPU burst loads; 100µA no-load current extends standby time. | Use Scenario: Providing regulated power to CMOS image sensor, ISP, and LCD backlight driver in a compact digital camera. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: OUT1 supplies sensor analog core (1.2V); OUT2 powers ISP digital logic (1.8V); OUT3/OUT4 feed sensor analog bias and LCD driver (2.8V/3.3V). Use Value: Independent EN pins allow staggered startup to limit inrush; low 75µVRMS LDO noise prevents image sensor pattern noise; 2.2µH inductors enable ultra-thin camera module height. |
| PDA System Power | Portable Media Player |
Use Scenario: Consolidating power for ARM9-based PDA with touchscreen controller, NAND flash, and Bluetooth radio. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Buck converters drive CPU core and memory bus; LDOs supply touch controller analog section and BT transceiver VCO. Use Value: 1.7V LDO input capability allows direct use of single-cell Li-ion (2.8–4.2V) without pre-regulation; thermal shutdown protects against enclosure overheating during extended GPS use. | Use Scenario: Power management for MP3 decoder SoC, OLED display, and USB PHY in a pocket-sized media player. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: OUT1 powers SoC core (1.1V); OUT2 feeds memory interface (1.5V); OUT3/OUT4 supply OLED VDD/VCOM and USB 3.3V LDO. Use Value: Adjustable outputs match evolving SoC voltage requirements; 3mm × 3mm QFN fits tight board space; soft-start ramp (100µs for LDOs, 25µs for bucks) prevents audio pop during playback startup. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-buck-with-LDO power management applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS65023RSBR | Triple buck + dual LDO; 2.25MHz switching; fixed 1.2V/1.8V/3.3V buck outputs; no adjustable FB pins. | Better suited for fixed-voltage SoC platforms (e.g., OMAP3); lacks voltage positioning and adjustable range. | Select when system requires three independent buck rails and fixed outputs simplify design - not for variable-core-voltage applications. |
| RT8070ZSP | Dual adjustable buck only (no integrated LDOs); 2.5MHz; 1.2A/1.5A outputs; requires external LDOs for low-noise analog rails. | Requires additional components for clean analog supplies; higher switching frequency increases EMI risk near sensitive RF sections. | Choose when board area allows discrete LDOs and higher efficiency at medium loads outweighs integration benefit. |
Compared with TPS65023RSBR and RT8070ZSP, the MAX8668ETEQ+ uniquely combines adjustable dual-buck outputs with integrated low-noise LDOs and voltage positioning - delivering optimal trade-off of integration, transient performance, and layout simplicity for portable processors requiring dynamic voltage scaling.
Availability
MAX8668ETEQ+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone power management, digital camera subsystems, and portable media player designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.
Supply support for MAX8668ETEQ+ 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.
The MAX8668 belongs to Maxim's portable power management product line, engineered specifically for space-constrained, battery-operated devices needing high-efficiency, multi-rail, and low-noise power delivery with flexible sequencing.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MAX8668ETEQ+ step-down regulators?
The MAX8668ETEQ+ step-down regulators (OUT1/OUT2) accept an input voltage range of 2.6V to 5.5V on the IN12 pin. Absolute maximum rating is +6.0V on IN12 relative to GND; exceeding this risks permanent damage. The LDO inputs (IN34) tolerate 1.7V to 5.5V, but must never exceed IN12 voltage - a critical constraint for safe operation.
How does voltage positioning work on the MAX8668ETEQ+ and why is it beneficial?
Voltage positioning on the MAX8668ETEQ+ is implemented by connecting the FB1/FB2 pins to the LX1/LX2 switch nodes instead of the output. This causes the regulated output to droop linearly with load current, matching inductor DCR-induced drop. The result is tighter effective load regulation during transients and reduced output capacitance requirements - directly improving system stability and shrinking PCB area.
Can the MAX8668ETEQ+ operate with only the LDOs enabled while the buck converters are off?
Yes. The MAX8668ETEQ+ supports independent control: EN3/EN4 can be asserted high to enable OUT3/OUT4 while EN1/EN2 remain low, disabling OUT1/OUT2. In this state, supply current drops to ~60µA (IN34 only), and the LDOs deliver up to 300mA each from 1.7V–5.5V input - ideal for low-power standby modes where only analog or real-time clock circuits remain active.
What is the recommended inductor value and DCR range for optimal performance with the MAX8668ETEQ+?
Maxim specifies 2.2µH chip inductors (0805 size) as standard for the MAX8668ETEQ+. For voltage positioning optimization, select inductors with DCR between 50mΩ and 150mΩ. For highest heavy-load efficiency (>200mA), minimize DCR; for light-load priority (<200mA), DCR up to 250mΩ remains acceptable. Saturation current must exceed 1.3× max load current (780mA for OUT1, 1560mA for OUT2).
Does the MAX8668ETEQ+ require external compensation components for stability?
No. The MAX8668ETEQ+ uses a proprietary hysteretic-PWM control architecture that is inherently stable without external compensation networks. This eliminates the need for phase-compensation capacitors or resistors on FB pins - simplifying layout, reducing BOM count, and removing a common source of tuning error in traditional voltage-mode or current-mode controllers.
MAX8668ETEQ+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- *
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Product Status:
- Active
- Topology:
- -
- Number of Outputs:
- -
- Frequency - Switching:
- -
- Voltage/Current - Output 1:
- -
- Voltage/Current - Output 2:
- -
- Voltage/Current - Output 3:
- -
- w/LED Driver:
- -
- w/Supervisor:
- -
- w/Sequencer:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
MAX8668ETEQ+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX8668ETEQ+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX8668ETEQ+ 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 MAX8668ETEQ+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX8668ETEQ+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX8668ETEQ+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX8668ETEQ+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX8668ETEQ+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX8668ETEQ+?
MAX8668ETEQ+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX8668ETEQ+ 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 MAX8668ETEQ+?
For technical support, including MAX8668ETEQ+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX8668ETEQ+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX8668ETEQ+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX8668ETEQ+ 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 MAX8668ETEQ+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX8668ETEQ+?
All MAX8668ETEQ+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX8668ETEQ+, 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 MAX8668ETEQ+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX8668ETEQ+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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