EVALUATION KIT AVAILABLE

MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
General Description Benefits and Features
The MAX16963 is a high-efficiency, dual synchronous S Small Size Components
step-down converter that operates with a 2.7V to 5.5V  Dual 2.2MHz DC-DC Converter
input voltage range and provides a 0.8V to 3.6V output S Ideal for Point-of-Load Applications
voltage range. The device delivers up to 1.5A of load  Up to 1.5A Output Current
current per output. The low input/output voltage range  Adjustable Output Voltage: 0.8V to 3.6V
and the ability to provide high output currents make this  2.7V to 5.5V Operating Supply voltage
device ideal for on-board point-of-load and postregulation
applications. The device achieves Q3% output error over S High Efficiency at Light Load
load, line, and temperature ranges.  Skip Mode with 36µA Quiescent Current

The device features a 2.2MHz fixed-frequency PWM mode S Low Electromagnetic Emission
for better noise immunity and load transient response,  Programmable SYNC I/O Pin
and a skip mode for increased efficiency during light-load  Spread Spectrum
operation. The 2.2MHz frequency operation allows for S Low Power Mode Saves Energy
an all-ceramic capacitor design and small-size external  Independent Enable Inputs
components. An optional spread-spectrum frequency S Output Rail Monitoring Helps Prevent System Failure
modulation minimizes radiated electromagnetic emissions  Open-Drain Power-Good Output
due to the switching frequency.
S Limits Inrush Current During Startup
On-board low RDSON switches help minimize efficiency  Built-In Soft-Start Timer
losses at heavy loads and reduce critical/parasitic induc-
S Overtemperature and Short-Circuit Protections
tance, making the layout a much simpler task with respect
to discrete solutions. Following a simple layout and footprint S 4mm x 4mm, 16-Pin TQFN and 16-Pin TSSOP
ensures first-pass success in new designs. Packages
The device is offered in a factory-preset output voltage or S -40NC to 125NC Operating Temperature Range
adjustable output-voltage version (see the Selector Guide
for options). Factory-preset output-voltage versions allow Ordering Information appears at end of data sheet.
customers to achieve Q3% output-voltage accuracy without
using external resistors, while the adjustable output-voltage Typical Application Circuit
version provides the flexibility to set the output voltage to
any desired value between 0.8V and 3.6V using an external
VPV1
resistive divider.
Additional features include 8ms fixed soft-start, 16ms PV1 OUTS1
2.2µH
4.7µF
fixed power-good delay, overcurrent, and overtemperature EN1
LX1 VOUT1
VPV2
protections. 22µF
PV2 PGND1
The MAX16963 is available in thermally enhanced 16-pin
4.7µF EN2
TSSOP-EP and 4mm x 4mm, 16-pin TQFN-EP packages,
OUTS2
and is specified for operation over the -40NC to +125NC VPV
1.5µH
automotive temperature range. 10Ω LX2 VOUT2
PV 22µF
Applications 1µF PGND2

VOUT1 GND VOUT2

Automotive Postregulation
Industrial/Military 20kΩ MAX16963 20kΩ
Point-of-Load Applications
PG2 PG1
EP

For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct
at 1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim’s website at www.maximintegrated.com. 19-6487; Rev 5; 7/15
 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
PV, PV1, PV2 to GND...............................................-0.3V to +6V Continuous Power Dissipation (TA = +70NC)
EN1, EN2, PG1, PG2 to GND..................................-0.3V to +6V TQFN (derate 25mW/NC above +70NC)................... 2000mW*
LX_ Current............................................................ ±1.6 (Note 1) TSSOP (derate 26.1mW/NC above +70NC)........... 2088.8mW*
PGND1 and PGND2 to GND ...............................-0.3V to +0.3V Operating Temperature Range......................... -40NC to +125NC
PV to PV1 and PV2................................................-0.3V to +0.3V Junction Temperature......................................................+150NC
LX1 and LX2 Continuous RMS Current....................................1A Storage Temperature Range............................. -65NC to +150NC
All Other Pins Voltages to GND... (VPV + 0.3V) to (VGND - 0.3V) Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s).................................+300NC
Output Short-Circuit Duration.....................................Continuous Soldering Temperature (reflow).......................................+260NC

*As per JEDEC51 Standard (multilayer board).

Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional opera-
tion of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to absolute
maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.

Note 1: LX_ has internal clamp diodes for PGND_ and PV_. Applications that forward bias these diodes should take care not to
exceed the IC’s package power-dissipation limits.

PACKAGE THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS (Note 2)

TQFN TSSOP
Junction-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance (BJA)...........40NC/W Junction-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance (BJA)........38.3NC/W
Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance (BJC)..................6NC/W Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance (BJC)..................3NC/W

Note 2: Package thermal resistances were obtained using the method described in JEDEC specification JESD51-7, using a four-layer
board. For detailed information on package thermal considerations, refer to www.maximintegrated.com/thermal-tutorial.

ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(VPV = VPV1 = VPV2 = 5V, VEN_ = 5V, TA = TJ = -40°C to +125°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA = +25°C.) (Note 3)

PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS

Supply Voltage Range VPV Normal operation 2.7 5.5 V
Supply Current IPV No load, VPWM = 0V 16 36 60 FA
Shutdown Supply Current ISHDN VEN1 = VEN2 = 0V, TA = +25°C 1 5 FA
Undervoltage Lockout Threshold
VUVLO_L 2.37 V
Low
Undervoltage Lockout Threshold
VUVLO_H 2.6 V
High

Undervoltage Lockout Hysteresis 0.07 V

SYNCHRONOUS STEP-DOWN DC-DC CONVERTER 1

FB Regulation Voltage VOUTS1 800 mV
ILOAD = 4% to 100% -3 0 +3 %
Feedback Set-Point Accuracy VOUTS1
ILOAD = 0% -0.5 +2 +3 %
pMOS On-Resistance RDSON_P1 VPV1 = 5V, ILX1 = 0.4A 90 148 mI
nMOS On-Resistance RDSON_N1 VPV1 = 5V, ILX1 = 0.8A 68 128 mI
Maximum pMOS Current-Limit
ILIMP1 1.95 2.35 3.15 A
Threshold

Maxim Integrated   2

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(VPV = VPV1 = VPV2 = 5V, VEN_ = 5V, TA = TJ = -40°C to +125°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA = +25°C.) (Note 3)

PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS

Maximum Output Current IOUT1 (VOUT1 + 0.5V P VPV1 P 5.5V) (Note 4) 1.5 A
Fixed output-voltage variants -1 +1
OUTS1 Bias Current IB_OUTS1 FA
Adjustable output variants -1 +1
VPV1 = 6V, LX1 = TA = +25°C -1 +1
LX1 Leakage Current ILX1_LEAK FA
PGND1 or PV1 TA = +125°C -5 +5
Minimum On-Time tON_MIN 60 ns
LX1 Discharge Resistance RLX1 VEN1 = 0V, through the OUTS_ pin 15 24 55 I
Maximum Short-Circuit Current 3.9 A
SYNCHRONOUS STEP-DOWN DC-DC CONVERTER 2
FB Regulation Voltage VOUTS2 800 mV
ILOAD = 4% to 100% -3 0 +3
Feedback Set-Point Accuracy VOUTS2 %
ILOAD = 0% +1 +2 +3
pMOS On-Resistance RDSON_P2 VPV2 = 5V, ILX2 = 0.4A 90 148 mI
nMOS On-Resistance RDSON_N2 VPV2 = 5V, ILX2 = 0.8A 68 128 mI
Maximum pMOS Current-Limit
ILIMP2 1.95 2.55 3.15 A
Threshold
Maximum Output Current IOUT2 (VOUT2 + 0.5V P VIN2 P 5.5V) (Note 4) 1.5 A
Fixed output-voltage variants 1 2 5
OUTS2 Bias Current IB_OUTS2 FA
Adjustable output variants 1
VPV2 = 6V, LX2 = TA = +25°C -1 +1
LX2 Leakage Current ILX2_LEAK FA
PGND2 or PV2 TA = +125°C -5 +5
Minimum On-Time tON_MIN 60 ns
LX2 Discharge Resistance RLX2 VEN2 = 0V, through the OUTS_ pin 15 24 55 I
Maximum Short-Circuit Current 3.9 A
OSCILLATOR
Oscillator Frequency fSW 2.0 2.2 2.4 MHz
Spread Spectrum Df/f Spread spectrum enabled +6 %
SYNC Input Frequency Range fSYNC 50% duty cycle (Note 5) 1.7 2.4 MHz
THERMAL OVERLOAD
Thermal Shutdown Threshold 165 °C
Thermal Shutdown Hysteresis 15 °C
POWER-GOOD OUTPUTS (PG1, PG2)
PG_ Overvoltage Threshold PGOVTH Percentage of nominal output 106 110 114 %
PG_ Undervoltage Threshold PGUVTH Percentage of nominal output 89.5 92 94 %
Active Timeout Period 16 ms

Maxim Integrated   3

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(VPV = VPV1 = VPV2 = 5V, VEN_ = 5V, TA = TJ = -40°C to +125°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA = +25°C.) (Note 3)

PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS

Undervoltage/Overvoltage
28 Fs
Propagation Delay
Output High Leakage Current TA = +25°C 0.2 FA
2.6V ≤ VPV1 ≤ 5.5V, ISINK = 3mA 0.4
PG1 Output Low Voltage V
VPV1 = 1.2V, ISINK = 100FA 0.4
2.6V ≤ VPV2 ≤ 5.5V, ISINK = 3mA 0.4
PG2 Output Low Voltage V
VPV2 = 1.2V, ISINK = 100FA 0.4
ENABLE INPUTS (EN1, EN2)
Input Voltage High VINH Input rising 2.4 1.7 2.4 V
Input Voltage Low VINL Input falling 0.5 0.85 0.5 V
Input Hysteresis 0.85 V
Input Current VEN_ = high 0.1 1.0 2 FA
Pulldown Resistor VEN_ = low 50 100 200 kI
DIGITAL INPUTS (SYNC, PWM)
Input Voltage High VINH 1.8 V
Input Voltage Low VINL 0.4 V
Input Voltage Hysteresis 50 mV
Pulldown Resistor 50 100 200 kI
DIGITAL OUTPUT (SYNC)
SYNC Output Voltage Low VOL ISINK = 3mA 0.4 V
SYNC Output Voltage High VOH VPV_ = 5V, ISOURCE = 3mA 4.2 V
Note 3: All limits are 100% production tested at +25°C. Limits over temperature are guaranteed by design.
Note 4: Calculated value based on an assumed inductor ripple of 30%.
Note 5: For SYNC frequency outside (1.7, 2.4)MHz, contact the factory.

Maxim Integrated   4

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Typical Operating Characteristics
(VPV = VPV1 = 5V, VEN1 = VEN2 = 5V, VOUT1 = 3.3V, VOUT2 = 1.8V, TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)

EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT

(VOUT = 3.3V) (VOUT = 1.8V) VOUT LOAD REGULATION (PWM)
100 100 0

MAX16963 toc03
MAX16963 toc01

MAX16963 toc02
VIN = 5V
90 90 VOUT = 3.3V
-0.5
80 80
SKIP TA = +125°C
70 70 SKIP
-1.0

REGULATION (%)
EFFICIENCY (%)

EFFICIENCY (%)

60 60
PWM PWM
50 50 -1.5 TA = -40°C
40 40
-2.0 TA = +25°C
30 30
20 20 -2.5
10 10
VIN = 5V VIN = 5V
0 0 -3.0
0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 0.001 0.01 0.1 1 10 0 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50
LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (A) ILOAD (A)

VOUT1 LOAD REGULATION (SKIP) VOUT LINE REGULATION (PWM) IPV vs. VPV (SKIP)
1.5 0 70
MAX16963 toc05
MAX16963 toc04

MAX16963 toc06
VIN = 5V VOUT = 1.8V VPWM = 0V
1.0 VOUT = 3.3V -0.05 ILOAD = 0.75A VEN1 = VEN2 = VPV
60 VOUT1 = VOUT2 = 0.8V
0.5 -0.10
TA = +125°C
0 50
REGULATION (%)
REGULATION (%)

-0.15
TA = -40°C
IPV (µA)

-0.5 TA = +125°C
-0.20 40
-1.0 TA = +25°C TA = +25°C
-0.25
-1.5 TA = -40°C 30

-2.0
-0.30
TA = +125°C 20
-2.5 TA = +25°C -0.35 TA = -40°C
-3.0 -0.40 10
0 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 2.7 3.1 3.5 3.9 4.3 4.7 5.1 5.5 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0 4.5 5.0 5.5
ILOAD (A) VPV (V) VPV (V)

IPV vs. TEMPERATURE (SKIP) fSW vs. TEMPERATURE

50 LOAD-TRANSIENT RESPONSE (PWM) 2.20
MAX16963 toc07

MAX16963 toc09

VPV = 5V MAX16963 toc08 VIN = 5V

VPWM = 0V 2.18
PWM MODE
45 VEN1 = VEN2 = VPV 1.5A 2.16 ILOAD = 0A
VOUT1 = VOUT2 = 0.8
2.14
40
2.12
fSW (MHz)
IPV (µA)

35 0.15A 2.10
ILOAD
0A 2.08
30
VOUT 2.06
AC-COUPLED 2.04
25 50mv/div
2.02
20 VOUT = 3.3V 2.00
-40 -25 -10 5 20 35 50 65 80 95 110 125 -40 -25 -10 5 20 35 50 65 80 95 110 125
TEMPERATURE (°C) 100µs/div TEMPERATURE (°C)

Maxim Integrated   5

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Pin Configurations

TOP VIEW TOP VIEW

SYNC

PWM

GND
PV

12 11 10 9
EN2 1 + 16 OUTS2
PV2 2 15 PG2
PG2 13 8 PG1
LX2 3 14 PV
OUTS2 14 7 OUTS1 PGND2 4 13 SYNC
MAX16963
MAX16963 5 12 PWM
PGND1
EN2 15 6 EN1
LX1 6 11 GND

EP PV1 7 EP 10 PG1
PV2 16 + 5 PV1
EN1 8 9 OUTS1

1 2 3 4 TSSOP-EP
LX2

PGND2

PGND1

LX1

TQFN-EP
(4mm x 4mm)

Pin Descriptions
PIN
NAME FUNCTION
TQFN TSSOP
1 3 LX2 Converter #2 Switching Node. LX2 is high impedance when converter #2 is off.
2 4 PGND2 Converter #2 Power Ground
3 5 PGND1 Converter #1 Power Ground
4 6 LX1 Converter #1 Switching Node. LX1 is high impedance when converter #1 is off.
5 7 PV1 Converter #1 Input Supply. Bypass PV1 with at least a 4.7FF ceramic capacitor to PGND1.
Converter #1 Enable Input. Drive EN1 high to enable converter #1. Drive EN1 low to disable
6 8 EN1
converter #1.
Converter #1 Feedback Input (Adjustable Output Option Only). Connect an external resistive
7 9 OUTS1
divider from VOUT1 to OUTS1 and GND to set the output voltage.
OUT1 Power-Good Output. Open-drain output. PG1 asserts when VOUT1 drops by 8%. Connect
8 10 PG1
to a 10kI pullup resistor.

9 11 GND Ground

PWM Control Input. Drive PWM high to put converters in forced PWM mode. Drive PWM low to
10 12 PWM
put converters in skip mode.
Factory-Set Sync Input or Output. As an input, SYNC accepts a 1.7MHz to 2.5HMz external
11 13 SYNC
signal. As an output, SYNC outputs a 90° phase-shifted signal with respect to internal oscillator.

Maxim Integrated   6

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Pin Descriptions (continued)

PIN
NAME FUNCTION
TQFN TSSOP
Device Supply Voltage Input. Bypass with at least a 1FF ceramic capacitor to GND. In addition,
12 14 PV
connect a 10I decoupling resistor between PV and the bypass capacitor.
OUT2 Power-Good Output. Open-drain output. PG2 asserts when VOUT2 drops by 8%. Connect
13 15 PG2
to a 10kI pullup resistor.
Converter #2 Feedback Input (Adjustable Output Option Only). Connect an external resistive
14 16 OUTS2
divider from VOUT2 to OUTS2 and GND to set the output voltage.
Converter #2 Enable Input. Drive EN2 high to enable converter #2. Drive EN2 low to disable
15 1 EN2
converter #2.
16 2 PV2 Converter #2 Input Supply. Bypass PV2 with at least a 4.7FF ceramic capacitor to PGND2.
Exposed Pad. Connect EP to a large-area contiguous copper ground plane for effective power
— — EP
dissipation. Do not use as the only IC ground connection. EP must be connected to GND.

Detailed Description Additional features include 8ms fixed soft-start, 16ms

fixed power-good output, overcurrent, and overtempera-
The MAX16963 is a high-efficiency, dual synchronous ture protections. See Figure 1.
step-down converter that operates with a 2.7V to 5.5V
Power-Good Output
input voltage range and provides a 0.8V to 3.6V output
The MAX16963 features an open-drain power-good out-
voltage range. The MAX16963 delivers up to 1.5A of load
put that asserts when the output voltage drops 8% below
current per output and achieves Q3% output error over
the regulated voltage. PG_ remains asserted for a fixed
load, line, and temperature ranges.
16ms timeout period after the output rises up to its regulat-
The device features a PWM input that, when set to ed voltage. Connect PG_ to OUTS_ with a 10kI resistor.
logic-high, forces the MAX16963 into a fixed-frequency,
2.2MHz PWM mode. A logic-low at the PWM input Soft-Start
enables the device to enter a low-power pulse frequency The MAX16963 includes an 8ms fixed soft-start time.
modulation mode (PFM) under light-load conditions. An Soft-start time limits startup inrush current by forcing the
optional spread-spectrum frequency modulation mini- output voltage to ramp up towards its regulation point.
mizes radiated electromagnetic emissions due to the Spread-Spectrum Option
switching frequency and a factory programmable syn- The MAX16963 featuring spread-spectrum (SS) opera-
chronization I/O (SYNC) allows better noise immunity. tion varies the internal operating frequency up by SS
On-board low RDSON switches help minimize efficiency = 6% relative to the internally generated operating fre-
losses at heavy loads and reduce critical/parasitic quency of 2.2MHz (typ). This function does not apply
inductance, making the layout a much simpler task with to externally applied oscillation frequency. The internal
respect to discrete solutions. Following a simple layout oscillator is frequency modulated with a 6% frequency
and footprint ensures first-pass success in new designs. deviation. See the Selector Guide for available options.
The device is offered in factory-preset output volt- Synchronization (SYNC)
ages to allow customers to achieve Q3% output-voltage SYNC is a factory-programmable I/O. See the Selector
accuracy without using expensive Q1% resistors. In Guide for available options. When SYNC is configured
addition, the adjustable output-voltage versions can be as an input, a logic-high on PWM enables SYNC to
set to any desired values between 0.8V to 3.6V using accept signal frequency in the range of 1.7MHz < fSYNC
an external resistive divider. See the Selector Guide for < 2.5MHz. When SYNC is configured as an output, a
available options. logic-high on PWM enables SYNC to output a 90N phase-
shifted signal with respect to internal oscillator.
Maxim Integrated   7
 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
CURRENT-SENSE PV1
AMP

MAX16963
SKIP CURRENT
COMP
PV1
CLK1

PEAK CURRENT
RAMP COMP PGND1 LX1
GENERATOR CONTROL LOGIC
STEP-DOWN #1
Σ PV

PMW
COMP
PGND1
VREF
ERROR ZERO-CROSSING
AMP FPWM CLK1 COMP
SOFT-START
GENERATOR
POWER-GOOD
COMP
P1-OK CURRENT LIM
FEEDBACK COMP PGND1
OUTS1
DRIVER

CURRENT-SENSE PV2
AMP

SKIP CURRENT
COMP
PV1
CLK2

PEAK CURRENT
RAMP COMP PGND2 LX2
CONTROL LOGIC
GENERATOR
STEP-DOWN #2
Σ PV

PMW
COMP
PGND2
VREF
ERROR ZERO-CROSSING
AMP FPWM CLK2 COMP
SOFT-START
GENERATOR
POWER-GOOD
COMP
P2-OK CURRENT LIM
FEEDBACK COMP PGND2
OUTS1
DRIVER

CLK1
SYNC OSC. CLK2 OTP TRIM BITS
FPWM

VOLTAGE
REFERENCE VREF
TH-SD PG1
P1-OK PG2
P2-OK MAIN
CONTROL
EN1 LOGIC
EN2
GND

Figure 1. Internal Block Diagram

Maxim Integrated   8

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
VOUT_ turns on the IC again after the junction temperature cools
by 15°C.

R1 C1 Applications Information
MAX16963

Adjustable Output-Voltage Option

OUTS_ The MAX16963 has an adjustable output voltage (see
the Selector Guide for options) that allows the customer
R2 to set the outputs to any voltage between 0.8V and 3.6V.
Connect a resistive divider from output (VOUT_) to OUTS_
to GND to set the output voltage (Figure 2). Select R2
(OUTS_ to GND resistor) less than or equal to 100kI.
Calculate R1 (VOUT_ to OUTS_ resistor) with the follow-
Figure 2. Adjustable Output Voltage Setting
ing equation:
Current-Limit/Short-Circuit Protection
The MAX16963 features current limit that protects the  V  
=R1 R2  OUT_  − 1
device against short-circuit and overload conditions at an  VOUTS_  

output. In the event of a short-circuit or overload condi-
tion at an output, the high-side MOSFET remains on until R1× R2
where ≤ 7.5kΩ
the inductor current reaches the high-side MOSFET’s R1 + R2
current-limit threshold. The converter then turns on the
low-side MOSFET and the inductor current ramps down.
The converter allows the high-side MOSFET to turn on where VOUTS_ = 800mV (see the Electrical Characteristics
only when the inductor current ramps down to the low- table).
side MOSFET’s current threshold. This cycle repeats until The external feedback resistive divider must be frequency
the short or overload condition is removed. compensated for proper operation. Place a capacitor
across each resistor in the resistive divider network.
FPWM/Skip Modes Use the following equation to determine the value of the
The MAX16963 features an input (PWM) that puts the capacitors:
converter either in skip mode for forced PWM (FPWM)  R2 
mode of operation. See the Pin Descriptions for mode C1 = 10pF  
detail. In FPWM mode, the converter switches at a con-  R1 
stant frequency with variable on-time. In skip mode, the Connect OUTS_ to VOUT_ for the fixed output-voltage
converter’s switching frequency is load-dependent until versions.
the output load reaches a certain threshold. At higher
Inductor Selection
load current, the switching frequency does not change
Three key inductor parameters must be specified for
and the operating mode is similar to the FPWM mode.
operation with the MAX16963: inductance value (L),
Skip mode helps improve efficiency in light-load appli-
inductor saturation current (ISAT), and DC resistance
cations by allowing the converters to turn on the high-
(RDCR). Use the following formulas to determine the mini-
side switch only when the output voltage falls below a
mum inductor value:
set threshold. As such, the converter does not switch
MOSFETs on and off as often as is the case in the FPWM   VOUT_   3 
mode. Consequently, the gate charge and switching L MIN1 =(VIN − VOUT_ ) ×  × 
 V
 IN   OP f × VREF × G CS 
losses are much lower in skip mode.
Overtemperature Protection where fOP is the operating frequency; this value is 2.2MHz,
Thermal overload protection limits the total power dissi- unless externally synchronized to a different frequency;
pation in the MAX16963. When the junction temperature VREF is the reference voltage equal to 1.25V; GCS is the
exceeds 165°C (typ), an internal thermal sensor shuts internal current-sense conductance equal to 0.8.
down the internal bias regulator and the step-down The next equation ensures that the inductor current down
controller, allowing the IC to cool. The thermal sensor slope is less than the internal slope compensation. For

Maxim Integrated   9

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Table 1. Inductor Values vs. (VIN - VOUT)
VIN - VOUT (V) 5.5 to 3.3 5.5 to 2.5 5.5 to 1.5 3.0 to 0.8
INDUCTOR (µH), ILOAD = 1.5A 1.5 1.5 1.0 0.68

this to be the case, the following equation needs to be Input Capacitor

satisfied: The input filter capacitor reduces peak currents drawn
m2 from the power source and reduces noise and voltage
−m ≥
2 ripple on the input caused by the circuit’s switching.

where m2 is the inductor current down slope: The input capacitor RMS current requirement (IRMS) is
defined by the following equation:
VOUT
VOUT_ (VPV_ − VOUT_ )
L IRMS = ILOAD(MAX)
VPV_
and -m is the slope compensation:
IRMS has a maximum value when the input voltage
0.8 × VREF equals twice the output voltage (VPV_ = 2VOUT_), so
IRMS(MAX) = ILOAD(MAX)/2.
µs × G CS
Choose an input capacitor that exhibits less than +10NC
Solving for L: self-heating temperature rise at the RMS input current for
optimal long-term reliability.
µs The input-voltage ripple is composed of DVQ (caused
= VOUT ×
L MIN2
1.6 × VREF × G CS by the capacitor discharge) and DVESR (caused by the
ESR of the capacitor). Use low-ESR ceramic capacitors
The equation that provides the bigger inductor value with high-ripple current capability at the input. Assume
must be chosen for proper operation. the contribution from the ESR and capacitor discharge
equal to 50%. Calculate the input capacitance and ESR
required for a specified input voltage ripple using the fol-
L MIN = max(L MIN1, L MIN2 ) lowing equations:
∆VESR
Then: ESRIN =
∆I
I OUT_ + L
2
L MAX= 2 × L MIN where:

∆IL =
(VPV_ − VOUT_ ) × VOUT_
The maximum inductor value must not exceed the cal- VPV_ × fSW × L
culated value from the above formula. This ensures that
the current feedback loop receives the correct amount of and:
current ripple for proper operation. I × D(1 − D) VOUT_
CIN = OUT_ and D =
Table 1 lists some of the inductor values for 1.5A output ∆VQ × fSW VPV_
current and several output voltages.
where IOUT_ is the maximum output current, and D is the
duty cycle.

Maxim Integrated   10

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Output Capacitor 2) Isolate the power components and high current path
The minimum capacitor required depends on output from the sensitive analog circuitry. This is essential to
voltage, maximum device current capability, and the prevent any noise coupling into the analog signals.
error-amplifier voltage gain. Use the following formula to 3) Add small footprint blocking capacitors with low self-
determine the required output capacitor value: resonance frequency close to PV1, PV2, and PV.
VREF x GEAMP 4) Keep the high-current paths short, especially at the
C OUT(MIN) = ground terminals. This practice is essential for stable,
2π × fCO × VOUT × R CS
jitter-free operation. The high current path composed
0.8V x 31.7 of input capacitors at PV1 and PV2, inductor, and the
=
2π × 210kHz × VOUT × 378mΩ output capacitor should be as short as possible.
where fCO is the target crossover frequency equal to 5) Keep the power traces and load connections short.
210kHz, GEAMP is the error-amplifier voltage gain equal to This practice is essential for high efficiency. Use
31.7V/V, and RCS is 378mΩ. thick copper PCBs (2oz vs. 1oz) to enhance full-load
efficiency.
PCB Layout Guidelines
6) OUTS_ are sensitive to noise for devices with external
Careful PCB layout is critical to achieve low switching
feedback option. The resistive network, R1, R2, and
losses and clean, stable operation. Use a multilayer
C1 must be placed close to OUTS_ and far away from
board whenever possible for better noise immunity and
the LX_ node and high switching current paths. The
power dissipation. Follow these guidelines for good PCB
ground node of R2 must be close to GND.
layout:
7) The ground connection for the analog and power
1) Use a large contiguous copper plane under the
section should be close to the IC. This keeps the
MAX16963 package. Ensure that all heat-dissipating
ground current loops to a minimum. In cases where
components have adequate cooling. The bottom
only one ground is used enough isolation between
pad of the MAX16963 must be soldered down to
analog return signals and high power signals must
this copper plane for effective heat dissipation and
be maintained.
maximizing the full power out of the MAX16963. Use
multiple vias or a single large via in this plane for
heat dissipation.

Chip Information Package Information

PROCESS: BiCMOS For the latest package outline information and land patterns (foot-
prints), go to www.maximintegrated.com/packages. Note that a
“+”, “#”, or “-” in the package code indicates RoHS status only.
Package drawings may show a different suffix character, but the
drawing pertains to the package regardless of RoHS status.

PACKAGE PACKAGE OUTLINE LAND

TYPE CODE NO. PATTERN NO.
16 TQFN-EP T1644+4 21-0139 90-0070
16 TSSOP-EP U16E+3 21-0108 90-0120

Maxim Integrated   11

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Selector Guide

PACKAGE OPTION ILOAD PER OUTPUT SPREAD SYNC IN/ POWER-GOOD

ROOT PART
SUFFIX SUFFIX OUTPUT (A) VOLTAGE SPECTRUM OUT DELAY (ms)
MAX16963 RAUE A/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Disabled In 16
MAX16963 SAUE A/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Enabled In 16
MAX16963 RATE A/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Disabled In 16
MAX16963 SATE A/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Enabled In 16
MAX16963 SATE C/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Enabled Out 16
MAX16963 SATE D/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Enabled In 8
MAX16963 SATE F/V+ 1.5/1.5 Ext. Adj. Enabled Out 8
Note: Contact the factory for variants with different output voltage, spread spectrum, and power-good delay time settings.

Ordering Information
LOAD CURRENT CAPABILITY
PART TEMP RANGE PIN-PACKAGE
PER OUTPUT (A)
MAX16963_ATE_/V+ -40°C to +125°C 1.5/1.5 16 TQFN-EP*
MAX16963_AUE_/V+ -40°C to +125°C 1.5/1.5 16 TSSOP-EP*
/V denotes an automotive qualified part.
+Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
*EP = Exposed pad.

Maxim Integrated   12

 MAX16963
Dual 2.2MHz, Low-Voltage Step-Down
DC-DC Converter
Revision History

REVISION REVISION PAGES

DESCRIPTION
NUMBER DATE CHANGED
0 11/12 Initial release —
Updated input voltage high min spec and input voltage low max spec, Figure 2,
1 9/13 4, 9, 11, 12
equation, step 6 in the PCB Layout Guidelines section, and the Ordering Information
Updated Ordering Information and added MAX16963SATE/V+ and PG timing
2 10/13 12
column to Selector Guide
Added FB regulation voltage to the Electrical Characteristics table, corrected VOUT
2, 3, 5,
3 2/14 mismatch in the Typical Operating Characteristic section, updated Inductor Selection
9, 10, 12
and Output Capacitor sections, updated Table 2, updated note in the Selector Guide
4 4/14 Updated VPV_ condition for PG_ output low voltage specification 4
Added formula to equation in the Setting the Output Voltage section, replaced the
5 7/15 9–11
Output Capacitor section, and deleted Table 2

Maxim Integrated cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim Integrated product. No circuit patent
licenses are implied. Maxim Integrated reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time. The parametric values (min and
max limits) shown in the Electrical Characteristics table are guaranteed. Other parametric values quoted in this data sheet are provided for guidance.

Maxim Integrated 160 Rio Robles, San Jose, CA 95134 USA 1-408-601-1000 13
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