Maxim Triple Controller Offers Sequencing & Tracking Control For Networks, Servers, and Telecom Applications

Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX15003, a triple-output synchronous step-down controller that is said to deliver at least 15A per output while maintaining excellent line and load regulation. The current limit, output voltage (down to 0.6V), switching frequency (200kHz to 2MHz), and the external compensation network can all be adjusted. The company claims that, with this design flexibility, the designer can optimize performance, board space, and cost. The MAX15003 is optimized for high-performance, small size power-management solutions in networks and servers, and telecom applications.

The MAX15003 reduces the need for multiple ICs to produce three rails. Integrating the three controllers into this single package is said to be far more practical and powerful than the competitive multiple-IC solution. The MAX15003 is said to thus allow for a small, compact solution in space-constrained applications. The MAX15003 can operate at a high-switching frequency (up to 2.2MHz) and 120 degrees out of phase. This reduces both the amount of input capacitance and the size of the inductor, and allows smaller passive components to be used.

The ability to track voltages during power-up/down (especially coincident tracking) is often difficult and done with an external discrete solution that is said to add board space and cost. Integrating sequencing and tracking control in the MAX15003 provides two important benefits. First, it eliminates the need for an external discrete solution or reference input signal, and it offers the option of ratiometric tracking, coincident tracking, or sequencing for both power-up and power-down. Three power-good indicators and an integrated reset further reduce overall component count.

Each of the MAX15003’s PWM sections use a voltage-mode control scheme with external compensation to provide good noise immunity and maximum flexibility with a wide selection of inductor values and capacitor types. Each PWM section operates at the same, fixed switching frequency that is programmable from 200kHz to 2.2MHz. The switching frequency can easily be set with an external resistor or synchronized to an external clock signal by using the SYNC input. A logic-enable input for each controller turns each output on and off independently. Each controller also features a digital soft-start and soft-stop.

The MAX15003 is offered in a thermally enhanced 48-pin, 7 x 7mm TQFN package, and is fully specified from -40 to +125°. Prices start at $3.52 (1000-up, FOB USA).