General Description
The MAX8545/MAX8546/MAX8548 are voltage-mode
pulse-width-modulated (PWM), step-down DC-DC con-
trollers ideal for a variety of cost-sensitive applications.
They drive low-cost n-channel MOSFETs for both the
high-side switch and synchronous rectifier, and require
no external current-sense resistor. These devices can
supply output voltages as low as 0.8V.
The MAX8545/MAX8546/MAX8548 have a wide 2.7V to
28V input range, and do not need any additional bias
voltage. The output voltage can be precisely regulated
from 0.8V to 0.83 x V
IN
. These devices can provide effi-
ciency up to 95%. Lossless short-circuit and current-limit
protection is provided by monitoring the R
DS(ON)
of the
low-side MOSFET. The MAX8545 and MAX8548 have a
current-limit threshold of 320mV, while the MAX8546 has
a current-limit threshold of 165mV. All devices feature
foldback-current capability to minimize power dissipation
under short-circuit condition. Pulling the COMP/EN pin
low with an open-collector or low-capacitance, open-
drain device can shut down all devices.
The MAX8545/MAX8546 operate at 300kHz and the
MAX8548 operates at 100kHz. The MAX8545/MAX8546/
MAX8548 are compatible with low-cost aluminum elec-
trolytic capacitors. Input undervoltage lockout prevents
proper operation under power-sag operations to prevent
external MOSFETs from overheating. Internal soft-start is
included to reduce inrush current. These devices are
offered in space-saving 10-pin µMAX
®
packages.
Applications
Features
♦ 2.7V to 28V Input Range
♦ Foldback Short-Circuit Protection
♦ No Additional Bias Supply Needed
♦ 0.8V to 0.83 x V
IN
Output
♦ Up to 95% Efficiency
♦ Low-Cost External Components
♦ No Current-Sense Resistor
♦ All n-Channel MOSFET Design
♦ Adaptive Gate Drivers Eliminate Shoot-Through
♦ Lossless Overcurrent and Short-Circuit
Protection
♦ 300kHz Switching Frequency
(MAX8545/MAX8546)
♦ 100kHz Switching Frequency (MAX8548)
♦ Pin-Compatible with the MAX1967
♦ Thermal Shutdown
MAX8545/MAX8546/MAX8548
Low-Cost, Wide Input Range, Step-Down
Controllers with Foldback Current Limit
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products 1