Maxim DC-DC converters

Maxim has introduced the MAX5098A/MAX5099 dual output, high-switching-frequency DC-DC converters capable of delivering 2 and 1 A.

Designed to operate directly from a car battery, these converters integrate load-dump protection circuitry to handle transients up to 80 V and they operate down to 4.5 V to withstand cold-crank conditions.

The devices feature a wide, 200 kHz to 2.2 MHz, programmable switching-frequency range, allowing them to operate outside the AM radio band.

The converters can operate 180° out of phase with an adjustable switching frequency. This capability minimises external component count while allowing the designer to make trade-offs between size, efficiency and cost.

In addition, they use voltage-mode control for stable operation and external compensation so that the loop gain is tailored to quality component selection and transient response.

Integrating an n-channel MOSFET that can be used in a high-side or low-side configuration, these devices can be configured either as boost or buck converters.

The 5099 also integrates two low-side MOSFET drivers for synchronous operation.