19-3971; Rev 2; 10/07
6A, 2MHz Step-Down Regulator
with Integrated Switches
General Description
Features
The MAX8646 high-efficiency switching regulator deliv-
ers up to 6A load current at output voltages from 0.6V
♦ Internal 23mΩ R
MOSFETs
DS(ON)
♦ Continuous 6A Output Current
to 0.9 x V . The IC operates from 2.35V to 3.6V, mak-
IN
♦ ±1% Output Accuracy over Load, Line,
and Temperature
ing it ideal for on-board point-of-load and postregula-
tion applications. Total output error is less than ±±1
over load, line, and temperature ranges.
♦ Operates from 2.35V to 3.6V Supply
♦ Adjustable Output from 0.6V to (0.9 x V
IN)
The MAX8646 features fixed-frequency PWM mode
operation with a switching frequency range of 500kHz
to 2MHz set by an external resistor. High-frequency
operation allows for an all-ceramic capacitor design.
The high operating frequency also allows for small-size
external components.
♦ Soft-Start Reduces Inrush Supply Current
♦ 500kHz to 2MHz Adjustable Switching Frequency
♦ Compatible with Ceramic, Polymer, and
Electrolytic Output Capacitors
♦ VID-Selectable Output Voltages
0.6V, 0.7V, 0.8V, 1.0V, 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.0V,
and 2.5V
The low-resistance on-chip nMOS switches ensure high
efficiency at heavy loads while minimizing critical induc-
tances, making the layout a much simpler task with
respect to discrete solutions. Following a simple layout
and footprint ensures first-pass success in new designs.
♦ Fully Protected Against Overcurrent and
Overtemperature
♦ Safe-Start into Prebiased Output
♦ Sink/Source Current in DDR Applications
♦ Lead-Free, 24-Pin, 4mm x 4mm Thin QFN Package
The MAX8646 comes with a high bandwidth (> ±4MHz)
voltage-error amplifier. The voltage-mode control archi-
tecture and the voltage-error amplifier permit a type III
compensation scheme to be utilized to achieve maxi-
mum loop bandwidth, up to 201 of the switching fre-
quency. High loop bandwidth provides fast transient
response, resulting in less required output capacitance
and allowing for all-ceramic-capacitor designs.
Ordering Information
TEMP
PKG
CODE
PART
PIN-PACKAGE
RANGE
24 Thin QFN-EP*
4mm x 4mm
The MAX8646 provides two tri-state logic inputs to
select one of nine preset output voltages. The preset
output voltages allow customers to achieve ±±1 out-
put-voltage accuracy without using expensive 0.±1
resistors. In addition, the output voltage can be set to
any customer value by either using two external resis-
tors at the feedback with 0.6V internal reference or
applying an external reference voltage to the REFIN
input. The MAX8646 offers programmable soft-start
time using one capacitor to reduce input inrush current.
The MAX8646 is available in a lead-free, 24-pin, 4mm x
4mm, thin QFN package.
MAX8646ETG+ -40°C to +85°C
T2444-4
+Denotes a lead-free package.
*EP = Exposed pad.
Typical Operating Circuit
INPUT
2.4V, 3.6V
IN
BST
OUTPUT
1.8V, 6A
MAX8646
EN
LX
V
DD
OUT
Applications
PGND
FB
POLs
CTL1
ASIC/CPU/DSP Core and I/O Voltages
DDR Power Supplies
CTL2
FREQ
Base-Station Power Supplies
Telecom and Networking Power Supplies
RAID Control Power Supplies
REFIN
SS
V
DD
COMP
PREBIAS
PWRGD
GND
Pin Configuration appears at end of data sheet.
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products
1
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct at 1-888-629-4642,
or visit Maxim’s website at www.maxim-ic.com.