Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXREFDES116A#

Overview

MAXREFDES116A# from Maxim Integrated is an isolated 24V-to-5V, 40W (8A) industrial DC-DC reference design based on the MAX17599 active-clamp forward controller. It delivers peak efficiency of 91.5% at 24V input, features functional insulation, compact 20mm × 70mm board size, and operates across 17V–36V input range for PLC and industrial sensor power applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAXREFDES116A# datasheet, MAXREFDES116A# pinout, MAXREFDES116A# application, or MAXREFDES116A# equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, key specifications, supply availability, manufacturer background, and targeted FAQs - all grounded in the official reference design documentation and test data.

Technical Context

The MAXREFDES116A# implements an active-clamp forward converter topology using the MAX17599 PWM controller, operating at 350kHz with programmable frequency dithering for EMI reduction. It supports wide-input operation (17V–36V), includes EN/UVLO (16.5V start) and OVI (37.0V shutdown) protection, and uses synchronous rectification on the secondary side.

Hardware-level protections include hiccup-mode overcurrent, soft-start, soft-stop clamp capacitor discharge, negative current limiting for clamp-switch control, and thermal shutdown. The design achieves zero-voltage switching via programmable dead-time between main and auxiliary drivers, reducing voltage stress and eliminating dissipative snubbers.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAXREFDES116A# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial process control systems, and telecom/datacom power supplies requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping support, and production-ready reference hardware.

Supply support for MAXREFDES116A# 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 industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAXREFDES reference design series targets industrial power-system developers, delivering fully validated, downloadable schematics and layout files for isolated DC-DC conversion - accelerating time-to-prototype for rugged, efficient power supplies.

FAQ

What is the input voltage range supported by the MAXREFDES116A# reference design?

The MAXREFDES116A# supports an input voltage range of 17V to 36V DC, with startup enabled at 16.5V (EN/UVLO threshold) and overvoltage shutdown triggered at 37.0V. This range accommodates standard 24V industrial bus variations including transients and brownouts, ensuring reliable operation in harsh environments where the MAXREFDES116A# is deployed.

What output voltage and current does the MAXREFDES116A# deliver?

The MAXREFDES116A# delivers a regulated 5V output with ±0.25V tolerance across its full 0–8A load range. At 24V input, it sustains 40W continuous output power, making it suitable for powering logic circuits, microcontrollers, and interface ICs in industrial control systems where the MAXREFDES116A# serves as a primary isolated rail.

Which controller IC is used in the MAXREFDES116A# design?

The MAXREFDES116A# uses the MAX17599 - a low-IQ, wide-input-range, active-clamp current-mode PWM controller. It integrates AUX driver circuitry, programmable dead-time control, EN/UVLO, OVI, soft-start, hiccup overcurrent protection, and thermal shutdown - all essential for robust implementation of the MAXREFDES116A#'s forward-converter topology.

Does the MAXREFDES116A# include EMI mitigation features?

Yes, the MAXREFDES116A# incorporates frequency-dithering capability via the MAX17599 controller, enabling low-EMI spread-spectrum operation. Combined with optimized layout, synchronous rectification, and elimination of dissipative snubbers through active-clamp reset, the MAXREFDES116A# meets industrial EMI requirements without external filtering overhead.

Is the MAXREFDES116A# board pre-assembled and tested?

Yes, the MAXREFDES116A# is delivered as a fully assembled and factory-tested reference board. It includes through-hole mounting pins for immediate integration into test fixtures or prototypes, and all design resources - schematics, BOM, Gerber files, and layout - are publicly available for validation and customization of the MAXREFDES116A# in end applications.