Step-down converters claim lowest quiescent current and highest peak efficiency

By Alix Paultre, contributing editor

To address 40-V load dump-tolerant applications, the ultra-compact, pin-compatible MAX20075 and MAX20076 step-down converters from Maxim Integrated claim the industry’s lowest quiescent current in an ultra-small solution with integrated compensation, with minimal external components for up to 50% savings in board space in always-on applications.

The MAX20075 and MAX20076 in peak current mode also claim the lowest IQ of just 3.5 µA in the low-power operating mode, which is key to meeting the stringent OEM IQ consumption requirements of 100 µA per module. The converters enable low noise operation via pin-controlled spread spectrum and fixed 2.1-Mhz operation to meet CISPR 25 Class 5 EMI compliance.

The MAX20075 and MAX20076 are available with a low minimum on-time mode operation, which allows the converters to support large input-to-output conversion ratios. The MAX20075 and MAX20076 meet AEC-Q100, are available in a 3 x 3-mm TDFN package, and operate over the –40°C to 125°C temperature range.