Triple/Quad PCIe Controllers Save Board Space

Ensuring safe insertion and removal of PCI Express cards from hot-plug slots, the MAX5957, MAX5958, MAX5959, and MAX5960 embark as the industry's first three- and four-channel hot-plug controllers. Integrating more channels than comparable controllers, the devices promise to boost design flexibility and save board space. The MAX5957 and MAX5958 provide three channels, while the MAX5959 and MAX5960 offer four. All of the devices provide independent power control for three PCIe voltage rails (+12V, +3.3V, and +3.3V auxiliary supply rail) for three or four PCIe slots. The MAX5957/MAX5959 and MAX5958/MAX5960 specify 375 mA and 550 mA maximum current limits, respectively, for the +3.3V auxiliary supply rail. Each integrates a 0.2-Ω power MOSFET switch for the +3.3V auxiliary supply rail, controllable via an external I/O expander through the SMBus interface. Prices for the MAX5957/MAX5958 and MAX5959/MAX5960 are $4.42 and $5.03 each/1,000, respectively. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.