Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8901AETA+TGA8
- Part No.:
- MAX8901AETA+TGA8
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX8901AETA+TGA8.pdf
- Description:
- INTEGRATED CIRCUIT
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,110
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 from Maxim Integrated is a high-efficiency, fixed-frequency (750kHz) step-up DC-DC converter IC designed to drive 2–6 series white LEDs with constant current for LCD backlighting in portable devices. It features direct PWM dimming control, 2.6V–5.5V input range, up to 91% efficiency, and integrated WLED overvoltage protection (25V typ). Its primary circuit role is LED current regulation in battery-powered handheld displays.
For engineers reviewing the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 datasheet, MAX8901AETA+TGA8 pinout, MAX8901AETA+TGA8 application, or MAX8901AETA+TGA8 equivalent, key selection considerations include PWM dimming interface compatibility, 8-pin TDFN-EP package thermal performance, 0.01µA shutdown current, and validation of WLED string voltage compliance with 25V OVP threshold.
Technical Context
The MAX8901AETA+TGA8 implements a current-mode boost topology with internal 750kHz oscillator and n-channel MOSFET switch (RLX = 0.7Ω typ, ILIM = 0.7A). It regulates LED current via CS pin feedback, where VCS is held at 0.50V (typ) during full-scale operation, enabling precise current setting using an external sense resistor.
Its single ON pin serves dual functions: enable control and PWM brightness modulation. Startup employs internal soft-start (10ms typical), while protection includes input UVLO (2.53V), OVLO (6.3V), thermal shutdown (160°C), and latch-off WLED OVP (25V). No WLED current flows in shutdown if WLED forward voltage exceeds VIN.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.6V to 5.5V - supports full 1-cell Li+/Li-Poly battery operation without external regulation. |
| Switching Frequency | 750kHz (typ) - enables use of small 22µH inductors and low-ESR ceramic capacitors for compact layout. |
| LED Current Accuracy | ±1.3% (typ, TA = +25°C) - ensures uniform brightness across multi-LED strings in display backlighting. |
| WLED OVP Threshold | 25V (typ) - protects against open-circuit or excessive string voltage; latches off until ON or VIN cycled. |
| Shutdown Current | 0.01µA (typ) - minimizes battery drain in standby mode for extended device sleep periods. |
| Efficiency | Up to 91% - maximizes runtime in power-constrained handheld applications like smartphones and PDAs. |
| Output Voltage Range | Up to 25V - accommodates 6-series WLED strings with typical VF ≈ 4.2V each (25.2V total). |
Pinout & Package
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is housed in an 8-pin, 2mm × 2mm TDFN-EP package with exposed paddle (EP) for thermal dissipation. The EP must be soldered to a solid ground plane per layout guidelines.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 OVP | WLED overvoltage monitor input | Connects to output capacitor positive terminal; triggers latch-off if WLED voltage exceeds 25V. |
| 2 ON | Enable and PWM dimming control | High = enable + soft-start; PWM signal (30–500kHz) modulates LED current proportionally to duty cycle. |
| 3 IN | Main power supply input | Accepts 2.6–5.5V; bypassed with 1µF ceramic cap; includes 6.3V OVLO and 2.53V UVLO protection. |
| 4 LX | Boost inductor switching node | Drives external inductor; high-impedance in shutdown; peak current limited to 0.7A. |
| 5 PGND | Power ground return | Low-impedance path for inductor and diode currents; must connect directly to EP and system GND. |
| 6 GND | Analog reference ground | Reference for CS, COMP, and internal circuits; tied to EP and PGND at single point near CIN. |
| 7 COMP | Loop compensation node | Connects 0.022µF cap to GND; sets soft-start time (10ms) and stabilizes current regulation loop. |
| 8 CS | Current-sense input | Regulated to 0.50V (typ); RCS resistor value determines max LED current (e.g., 20Ω = 25mA). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Direct PWM dimming interface | ON pin accepts 30–500kHz PWM signals; LED current scales linearly with duty cycle - eliminates need for external dimming controllers. |
| Integrated WLED overvoltage protection | 25V threshold with latch-off behavior prevents damage during open-string faults - no external sensing or reset circuitry required. |
| Ultra-low shutdown current | 0.01µA typical - extends battery life in always-on portable devices by minimizing quiescent drain during display-off states. |
| Internal soft-start | 10ms controlled ramp-up of LED current - eliminates inrush stress on LEDs, diodes, and input capacitors during power-on. |
| Thermal shutdown protection | 160°C junction limit with automatic recovery only after ON toggle or VIN cycle - prevents permanent die damage under sustained overload. |
Applications
| Smartphone LCD Backlight | Tablet Display Backlight |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving 4–6 series WLEDs behind high-resolution AMOLED or LCD panels in battery-powered smartphones. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current boost regulator with PWM-controlled brightness scaling synchronized to display frame rate. Use Value: Enables uniform luminance across full display area while maintaining >90% efficiency at 3.6V input and 18–24mA LED current. |
Use Scenario: Powering wide-format LCD backlights in 7–10 inch tablets requiring higher total LED current and tighter thermal management. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-frequency (750kHz) step-up controller regulating up to 25V output for 6-WLED strings with minimal EMI. Use Value: Delivers stable 24.75mA per string with ±1.3% accuracy, reducing brightness variation between display zones. |
| Portable Media Player UI Lighting | Handheld GPS Navigation Display |
|
Use Scenario: Illuminating small-form-factor color LCDs in MP3 players and e-readers with variable ambient light adaptation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-pin enabled LED driver supporting rapid PWM dimming transitions for dynamic UI brightness control. Use Value: Achieves seamless 100:1 brightness range using standard MCU GPIO PWM output - no additional I²C or serial interface needed. |
Use Scenario: Providing reliable backlighting for outdoor-readable GPS units operating across -40°C to +85°C temperature extremes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust WLED supply with UVLO, OVLO, thermal shutdown, and OVP - ensuring fault-free operation under automotive-grade conditions. Use Value: Maintains consistent LED output despite wide input voltage swings (2.6–5.5V) and transient load changes during GPS signal acquisition. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar WLED boost converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX8901BETA+T | Uses 32-step serial-pulse dimming instead of PWM; identical pinout, package, and protection features. | Requires single-wire pulse timing control rather than PWM generation; not compatible with existing PWM firmware. | Select MAX8901BETA+T only when system lacks dedicated PWM generator and prefers simple pulse-based brightness stepping. |
| TPS61165DRVR | Fixed 1.2MHz switching frequency; 30V OVP; 2.7–5.5V input; requires external PWM-to-analog conversion for dimming. | Lacks integrated PWM interface - needs external RC filter or DAC for analog dimming; different pin assignment (no OVP pin). | Choose TPS61165DRVR only if higher switching frequency justifies added external components and layout complexity. |
Compared with MAX8901BETA+T and TPS61165DRVR, MAX8901AETA+TGA8 uniquely integrates direct PWM dimming on the ON pin with 25V OVP and 0.01µA shutdown - simplifying design for cost-sensitive, battery-optimized handheld displays.
Availability
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone LCD backlighting, portable media player UI lighting, and handheld GPS navigation display applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX8901AETA+TGA8 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 portable, industrial, and communications systems.
The MAX8901AETA+TGA8 belongs to Maxim's WLED backlight driver product line, engineered specifically for ultra-compact, high-efficiency LCD/AMOLED display power in space- and battery-constrained handheld devices.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of WLEDs the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 can drive?
The MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is specified to drive 2 to 6 series-connected white LEDs. With a maximum output voltage of 25V and typical WLED forward voltage of ~4.2V per diode, it reliably powers 6-WLED strings (25.2V theoretical) while maintaining regulation and protection integrity. Efficiency remains above 85% across this range at 3.6V input.
Does the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 require an external current-sense resistor?
Yes, the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 requires an external current-sense resistor (RCS) connected between the CS pin and GND. This resistor sets the full-scale LED current: for example, a 20Ω resistor yields 25mA (RCS = 500mV / ILED). The IC regulates VCS to 0.50V (typ) during 100% PWM duty cycle, making current programming precise and predictable.
What is the recommended PWM frequency range for dimming control on the MAX8901AETA+TGA8?
The MAX8901AETA+TGA8 supports PWM dimming frequencies from 30kHz to 500kHz. Operation within this range ensures optimal LED current accuracy (±1.3% typ) and avoids audible noise. Frequencies below 30kHz may cause visible flicker or reduced accuracy; above 500kHz, gate drive limitations degrade regulation stability. A 100kHz PWM signal is commonly used for balanced performance.
How does the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 handle overvoltage conditions on the input supply?
The MAX8901AETA+TGA8 incorporates input overvoltage lockout (OVLO) that activates when VIN exceeds 6.3V (typ). At that point, the IC stops switching, halting LED current flow - provided the WLED string forward voltage exceeds VIN. When VIN drops below 6.0V, soft-start resumes automatically. This protects both the IC and external components from transient overvoltage events.
Is the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 pin-compatible with the MAX8901BETA+T?
Yes, the MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is pin-compatible with the MAX8901BETA+T: both use identical 8-pin TDFN-EP packages, share the same pinout, footprint, and thermal pad layout. However, their dimming interfaces differ fundamentally - MAX8901AETA+TGA8 uses direct PWM on the ON pin, while MAX8901BETA+T uses serial-pulse timing - so firmware and external circuitry are not interchangeable.
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- -
- Topology:
- -
- Internal Switch(s):
- -
- Number of Outputs:
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- -
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX8901AETA+TGA8 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX8901AETA+TGA8 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 MAX8901AETA+TGA8 reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX8901AETA+TGA8 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX8901AETA+TGA8?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX8901AETA+TGA8 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX8901AETA+TGA8?
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX8901AETA+TGA8 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 MAX8901AETA+TGA8?
For technical support, including MAX8901AETA+TGA8 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX8901AETA+TGA8 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX8901AETA+TGA8 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX8901AETA+TGA8 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 MAX8901AETA+TGA8 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX8901AETA+TGA8?
All MAX8901AETA+TGA8 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX8901AETA+TGA8, 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 MAX8901AETA+TGA8 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX8901AETA+TGA8:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX8901AETA+TGA8 Tags

-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations

-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology

-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
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…

