The MAX20029/MAX20029B/MAX20029C/MAX20029D power-management ICs (PMICs) integrate four low-voltage, high-efficiency, step-down DC-DC converters. Each of the four outputs is factory or resistor programmable between 1V to 4.0V (MAX20029/MAX20029B) or 0.7V to 3.8V (MAX20029C/MAX20029D). The MAX20029/
MAX20029C has two 0.5A/1A/1.5A channels and two 0.5A/1.5A channels, while the MAX20029B/MAX20029D
has two 0.5A/1.5A channels and by combining channels 1 and 2, a single 2A/3A channel. The PMICs operate from
3.0V to 5.5V, making them ideal for automotive point-of-load and post-regulation applications.
The PMICs feature fixed-frequency PWM-mode operation with a switching frequency of 2.2MHz. High-frequency operation allows for an all-ceramic capacitor design and small-size external components. The low-resistance on-chip switches ensure high efficiency at heavy loads while minimizing critical inductances, making the layout a much simpler task with respect to discrete solutions. Internal current sensing and loop compensation reduce board space and system cost.
The PMICs offer a spread-spectrum option to reduce radiated emissions. Two of the four buck converters operate 180° out-of-phase with the internal clock. This feature reduces the necessary input capacitance and improves EMI as well. All four buck converters operate in constant PWM mode outside the AM band. The PMICs offer a SYNC input to synchronize to an external clock.
The PMICs provide individual enable inputs and power-good/reset outputs, as well as factory-programmable PG times.
The PMICs offer several important protection features including: input overvoltage protection, input undervoltage lockout, cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and overtemperature shutdown.
The MAX20029/MAX20029B/MAX20029C//MAX20029D PMICs are available in a 28-pin TQFN package with an exposed pad and are specified for operation over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.
Applications