Maxim Integrated MAX25430 automotive buck-boost controller

Automotive multimedia hubs, including rear-seat entertainment modules and head units, are all expanding in capability as more USB Power Delivery (PD) chargers are integrated into passenger vehicle cabins. Designers of automotive chargers should therefore be interested in the MAX25430 100 W USB PD buck-boost controller and protector from Maxim Integrated Products — claimed to reduce design size by up to 40% compared to competitive multi-IC solutions, while increasing the number of USB PD ports in vehicles.

The product integrates a USB Type C Port Controller (TCPC) power regulator, V_CONN cable power supply, buck-boost and protection, thereby eliminating heat-sink requirements and metal box enclosures. It is said to run 20°C cooler at full power compared to competitive automotive USB PD solutions and needs only one microcontroller (MCU) regardless of the number of ports.

The controller is suitable for small, high-efficiency, thermally cool and flexible automotive-grade designs.