Article Tools

• 

Housed in a 4-mm2 wafer-level package (WLP), the MAX8649 dc-dc step-down converter from Maxim Integrated Products integrates a highly precise bandgap reference and minimizes offset errors in the feedback circuit for extremely tight output-voltage accuracy, the company says. Its fully differential remote sense ensures precise regulation at the load by eliminating the resistive losses associated with printed-circuit board (PCB) trace impedance, Maxim also says.

This 1.8-A, synchronous, fixed-frequency device delivers an initial accuracy of ±0.5% at 1.27 V and a total accuracy of better than ±2% over load, line, and temperature, enabling applications processors to run at maximum clock speed and suiting the MAX8649 for high-performance portable handsets. It operates from an input supply as low as 2.5 V to support the latest generation of deep-discharge battery chemistries. And, its I2C interface allows the output voltage to be programmed between 750 mV and 1.38 V in 10-mV steps.

Housed in a 4-mm2 wafer-level package (WLP), the MAX8649 dc-dc step-down converter from Maxim Integrated Products integrates a highly precise bandgap reference and minimizes offset errors in the feedback circuit for extremely tight output-voltage accuracy for portable products, the company says.

The MAX8649 also can operate in fixed-frequency (3.25 MHz) pulse-width modulation (PWM) mode or in power-save mode. It can be configured to operate from the internal oscillator, or it can be synchronized to an external system clock to simplify electromagnetic interference (EMI) reduction. In power-save mode, the MAX8649’s proprietary hysteretic PWM control scheme reduces the effective switching frequency for improved light-load efficiency (80% at 10 mA) compared to fixed-frequency PWM mode (21% at 10 mA).

To simplify programming, the MAX8649’s two logic controls facilitate selection between four predefined power-management states. For each state, users can individually program the output voltage, mode of operation (PWM or power save), and external clock synchronization (on/off). Other features include output overvoltage and overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, soft-start, and an ultra-low, 1-µA shutdown current.

The MAX8649 comes in a 2.0- by 2.0- by 0.65-mm, 16-bump WLP. It’s fully specified over the –40°C to 85°C extended temperature range. Prices start at $1.60 in quantities of 1000 units and up. Samples and evaluation kits are available upon request.