Power management IC suits automotive applications

Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX16922, a 2.2 MHz, high-voltage, four-channel power-management IC (PMIC) optimized for automotive applications that require up to four power rails at medium power levels. This device integrates one high-voltage step-down converter, one low voltage step-down converter, two low-voltage LDO regulators, and a power-good reset output for voltage monitoring — all in a compact (5 x 5 mm) footprint. The MAX16922 is suited for automotive applications in which small solution size and power efficiency are critical.

The high-voltage step-down converter is capable of delivering 1.2 A and is optimized for operation in the normal automotive battery range of 8 to 18 V. However, it is able to operate during load-dump transients up to 42 V and cold-crank events down to 3.5 V. The other three power rails are cascaded from the output of the high-voltage converter or one of the other converters. Each has a separate supply pin to allow flexibility in configuration and maximum conversion efficiency. The 600 mA step-down converter operates with a 2.7 to 5.5 V supply voltage, while the two 300 mA low-dropout linear regulators operate with a supply from 1.7 to 5.5 V.

To reduce switching noise, the 600 mA step-down converter operates 180° out-of-phase with the high-voltage step-down converter and can be operated in forced-PWM mode. The output voltages of all four channels are factory-trimmed to fixed values. Protection features include overcurrent limiting and thermal shutdown. The MAX16922 is fully specified over the -40° to 125° C automotive temperature range.

For more information, contact Maxim Integrated Products, 120 San Gabriel Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94086. Phone: (408) 737-7600.