3A, 2.2MHz, Synchronous Step-Down DC-DC Converter

The MAX16961 is a high-efficiency, synchronous step-down converter that operates with a 2.7V to 5.5V input voltage range and provides a 0.8V to 3.6V output voltage range. The wide input/output voltage range and the ability to provide up to 3A to load current make this device ideal for on-board point-of-load and post-regulation applications. The device achieves -3.7%/+2.6% output error over load, line, and temperature ranges.

The device features a 2.2MHz fixed-frequency PWM mode for better noise immunity and load transient response, and a pulse-frequency modulation mode (skip) for increased efficiency during light-load operation. The 2.2MHz frequency operation allows for the use of all-ceramic capacitors and minimizes external components. The optional spread-spectrum frequency modulation minimizes radiated electromagnetic emissions.

Integrated low RDSON switches improve efficiency at heavy loads and make the layout a much simpler task with respect to discrete solutions.

The device can be offered with factory-preset output voltages, or with an adjustable output voltage (contact factory for preset output-voltage options). Factory-preset output-voltage versions allow customers to achieve -3.7%/+2.6% output-voltage accuracy without using external resistors, while the adjustable output-voltage version provides the flexibility to set the output voltage to any desired value between 0.8V to 3.6V using an external resistive divider.

Additional features include 8ms soft-start, 16ms power-good output delay, overcurrent, and overtemperature protections.

The MAX16961 is available in thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP and 16-pin (4mm x 4mm) TQFN-EP packages, and is specified for operation over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.

Applications

* Automotive Infotainment * Industrial/Military * Point-of-Load Applications

* Small External Components

* 2.2MHz Operating Frequency

* Ideal for Point-of-Load Applications

* 3A Maximum Load Current

* Adjustable Output Voltage: 0.8V to 3.6V

* 2.7V to 5.5V Operating Supply Voltage

* High Efficiency at Light Load

* 26µA Skip Mode Quiescent Current

* Minimizes Electromagnetic Interference

* Programmable SYNC I/O Pin

* Operates Above AM-Radio Band

* Available Spread Spectrum

* Low Power Mode Saves Energy

* 1µA Shutdown Current

* Open-Drain Power-Good Output

* Limits Inrush Current During Startup

* Soft-Start

* Overtemperature and Short-Circuit Protections

* 16-Pin TSSOP-EP and 16-Pin (4mm x 4mm) TQFN-EP Packages

* -40°C to 125°C Operating Temperature Range