2.5-MHz DC/DC Converters Integrate Bypass FET

Capable of switching at 2.5 MHz, the MAX8581 and MAX8582 step-down dc/dc converters deliver up to 600 mA continuous and integrate a 65-mO bypass FET within 10-pin, 3 mm x 3 mm x 0.8 mm, TDFN packages. During high-power transmission, the FET connects the power amplifier directly to the battery with a dropout of 33 mV at 500 mA, minimizing power loss at the inductor and allowing minimal battery voltage for device usage. The output is dynamically variable from 0.4V to V_IN. This improves efficiency by 47% at +10 dBm. Prices start at $1.48 each/2,500. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.