Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXREFDES115B#

Overview

MAXREFDES115B# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled, tested, and purchasable isolated 24V-to-5V/4A (20W) industrial power supply reference design based on the MAX17599 active-clamp forward controller. It delivers peak efficiency of 91.5% at 24V input, features functional insulation, through-hole mounting pins, and uses a Sumida 12387-T070 transformer. It targets compact, high-reliability industrial DC-DC conversion.

For engineers reviewing the MAXREFDES115B# datasheet, MAXREFDES115B# pinout, MAXREFDES115B# application, or MAXREFDES115B# equivalent, key selection criteria include verified 5V ±0.25V output regulation across 0–4A load, 250kHz switching with programmable frequency dithering, EN/UVLO set to 16.5V, OVI threshold at 37.0V, and hiccup-mode overcurrent protection.

Technical Context

The MAXREFDES115B# implements an active-clamp forward topology using the MAX17599 PWM controller, enabling zero-voltage switching via programmable dead time between main and auxiliary drivers. It employs synchronous rectification on the secondary side with dual N-channel MOSFETs and LC filtering for clean 5V output.

Input undervoltage lockout (EN/UVLO) and overvoltage protection (OVI) are resistor-programmable; soft-start (SS) controls inrush current and enables safe clamp capacitor discharge; thermal shutdown and hiccup-mode overcurrent ensure robust fault handling in harsh industrial environments.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAXREFDES115B# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PLCs, industrial process control systems, and telecom/datacom power supplies requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping, and production-ready reference designs.

Supply support for MAXREFDES115B# 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 analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAXREFDES reference design series targets engineers needing validated, production-ready power architectures - MAXREFDES115B# specifically addresses compact, efficient, isolated 24V-to-5V conversion for harsh-environment industrial systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAXREFDES115B#?

The MAXREFDES115B# is a complete, isolated 24V-to-5V/4A (20W) power supply reference design built around the MAX17599 active-clamp forward controller. It provides a ready-to-use, tested solution for industrial applications requiring functional insulation, compact size (20mm × 55mm), and robust protection features - not a bare IC or component.

Which transformer is used in the MAXREFDES115B#?

The MAXREFDES115B# uses the Sumida 12387-T070 transformer, explicitly qualified and listed in Maxim's official documentation for this variant. This transformer enables the active-clamp forward topology and contributes to the design's 91.5% peak efficiency at 24V input.

Does the MAXREFDES115B# support frequency adjustment?

Yes - the MAXREFDES115B# operates at a nominal 250kHz switching frequency and supports programmable frequency dithering via the MAX17599 controller to enable low-EMI spread-spectrum operation, critical for EMI-sensitive industrial deployments.

How is input undervoltage and overvoltage protection configured on the MAXREFDES115B#?

The MAXREFDES115B# implements EN/UVLO with a 16.5V turn-on threshold and OVI shutdown at 37.0V, both set by external resistor dividers per the MAX17599's EN/UVLO and OVI pin architecture - values confirmed in the reference design's schematics and test reports.

What mechanical interface does the MAXREFDES115B# provide for system integration?

The MAXREFDES115B# features through-hole mounting pins on its bottom side, spaced 15.24mm between power and ground and 63.5mm between input and output sides - enabling immediate board placement, accelerated prototyping, and secure mechanical attachment without custom fixtures.