MAX17101 - Dual, Quick-PWM™ Step-Down Controller Provides a Complete Solution for Notebook Power Supplies

• The MAX17101 is a dual, Quick-PWM™ step-down controller for generating 5V/3.3V supplies in battery-powered systems.
• This highly integrated device saves space while generating multiple supplies.
• To provide a complete solution, the device integrates a low-power LDO and an RTC regulator in a 5mm x 5mm TQFN package.
• The MAX17101 is ideal for notebook computers, tablet PCs, and other portable devices.

SUNNYVALE, CA—December 3, 2008—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX17101, a dual, Quick-PWM™ step-down controller with synchronous rectification for generating 5V/3.3V supplies in battery-powered systems. This highly integrated device consists of four output-voltage regulators, allowing it to save space while generating multiple supplies for notebook computers. An internal, 100mA linear regulator can be used to generate either the 5V bias needed for power-up or other lower-power, "always-on" suspend supplies. The controller also includes a low-current (5mA), "always-enabled" linear regulator to power the real-time clock (RTC) when all other notebook regulators are disabled. The MAX17101 is ideal for notebook computers, tablet PCs, and other portable devices.

The device employs low-side MOSFET sensing to provide low-cost, highly efficient current sensing for valley current-limit protection. Combined with the output overvoltage- and undervoltage-protection features, this current limit ensures robust output supplies. These 5V/3.3V SMPS outputs can save power by operating in pulse-skipping mode, or in ultrasonic mode to avoid audible noise.

Maxim's proprietary, Quick-PWM architecture enables the MAX17101 to handle fast load steps while maintaining a relatively constant operating frequency and inductor operating point over a wide range of input voltages. This approach circumvents the poor load-transient timing problems of fixed-frequency, current-mode PWM controllers, while also avoiding the problems caused by widely varying switching frequencies in conventional constant-on-time and constant-off-time PWM schemes.

The MAX17101 is available in a tiny, 5mm x 5mm, 32-pin TQFN package, and is fully specified over the -40°C to +85°C extended industrial temperature range. Prices start at $4.00 (1000-up, FOB USA).

Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells over $2 billion of high-performance semiconductor products annually. It was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, Maxim has developed over 5900 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets. For more information, go to www.maxim-ic.com.

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