Date: 16/07/2010

2.5A buck converter from Maxim enables high clock speeds in application processors

Maxim has made available the MAX8952, a synchronous, DC-DC buck converter. This BiCMOS process based power IC delivers up to 2.5A of output current. Maxim says that the high-current capability allows application processors to run at high clock speed. The MAX8952 is suggested for high-performance portable devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs.

The MAX8952 achieves tight output-voltage accuracy by integrating a highly precise bandgap reference and by minimizing offset errors in the feedback circuit. Fully differential remote sense ensures precise regulation at the load by eliminating the resistive losses associated with PCB trace impedance. Additionally, the MAX8952 operates from an input supply as low as 2.5V to extend device operating time and to support a range of battery chemistries.

Some of the features of the MAX8952 includes:
1. This buck converter has a I²C interface that enables dynamic voltage scaling and allows programming of the output voltage between 770mV and 1.40V in 10mV steps.
2. Operates either in fixed-frequency (3.25MHz) PWM mode or in power-save mode.
3. It can also be synchronized to an external system clock to ease EMI reduction.
4. Provides two logic controls to facilitate selection among four predefined power-management states. An user can individually program the output voltage, mode of operation (PWM or power save), and external clock synchronization (on/off).
5. Other features include output overvoltage and overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, soft-start, and an ultra-low 1µA (max) shutdown current.

Package: 2.0mm x 2.0mm x 0.65mm, 16-bump WLP

Operating temperature range: -40degC to +85degC

Price: starts at US$1.76.

For more information visit: www.maxim-ic.com