Maxim 2MHz Synchronous DC-DC Converters Enable All-Ceramic-Capacitor Designs
Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX15038/MAX15039, small, synchronous dc-dc converters that deliver up to 4 and 6A of output current, respectively. Operating from a 500kHz to 2MHz switching frequency, these devices enable the implementation of compact, all-ceramic-capacitor designs.
User-selectable, fixed-frequency PWM, and pulse-skipping modes are said to ensure high efficiency during light loads, while integrated low-resistance MOSFETs maximize conversion efficiency at heavy loads. In all, the MAX15038/MAX15039 deliver over 94% conversion efficiency (at 1MHz), making them well suited for a variety of point-of-load applications, such as those found in telecom, networking, storage, and server equipment.
The MAX15038/MAX15039 integrate a high-bandwidth (28MHz) voltage-error amplifier, which can be combined with a voltage-mode control architecture to enable the implementation of type III compensation. This topology maximizes bandwidth, improves transient response, and minimizes output capacitance, thus allowing an all-ceramic-capacitor design.
These devices operate from a 2.9 to 5.5V supply, and provide ±1% output-voltage accuracy over line, load, and temperature variations. Other features include two 3-state inputs to select one of nine preset outputs, an external reference input for tracking applications, programmable soft-start, and the ability to sink and source current at the output for memory applications. Additionally, the output voltage can be adjusted to any customer value with two external resistors.
The MAX15038/MAX15039 are available in a 4 x 4mm TQFN package, and are fully specified over the -40 to +85°C extended temperature range. Prices start at $2.73 (1000-up, FOB USA).
