MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
EVALUATION KIT AVAILABLE
19-5038; Rev 4; 4/13
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct
at 1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim’s website at www.maximintegrated.com.
General Description
The MAX16903 is a small, synchronous buck converter
with integrated high-side and low-side switches. The
device is designed to deliver 1A with input voltages
from +3.5V to +28V while using only 25μA quiescent
current at no load. Voltage quality can be monitored by
observing the PGOOD signal. The MAX16903 can oper-
ate in dropout by running at 97% duty cycle, making it
ideal for automotive and industrial applications.
The MAX16903 operates at a 2.1MHz frequency, allow-
ing for small external components and reduced output
ripple. It guarantees no AM band interference. SYNC
input programmability enables three frequency modes
for optimized performance: forced fixed-frequency
operation, skip mode (ultra-low quiescent current of
25μA), and synchronization to an external clock. The
MAX16903 can be ordered with spread-spectrum fre-
quency modulation, designed to minimize EMI-radiated
emissions due to the modulation frequency.
The MAX16903 is available in a thermally enhanced,
3mm x 3mm, 10-pin TDFN package or a 16-pin TSSOP
package. The MAX16903 operates over the -40°C to
+125°C automotive temperature range.
Applications
Automotive
Industrial
Military
High-Voltage Input-Power DC-DC Applications
Features
oWide +3.5V to +28V Input Voltage Range
oTolerates Input Voltage Transients to +42V
o1A Minimum Output Current with Overcurrent
Protection
oFixed Output Voltages (see the
Selector Guide
and contact the factory for all available trimmed
output voltage options)
o2.1MHz Switching Frequency with 3 Modes of
Operation
25µA Ultra-Low Quiescent Current Skip Mode
Forced Fixed-Frequency Operation
External Frequency Synchronization
oOptional Spread-Spectrum Frequency Modulation
oPower-Good Output
oEnable-Pin Compatible from +3.3V Logic Level to
+42V
oThermal Shutdown Protection
o-40°C to +125°C Automotive Temperature Range
o10-Pin TDFN-EP or 16-Pin TSSOP-EP Packages
oAEC-Q100 Qualified
PART SPREAD
SPEC T R UM
TEMP
RANGE
PIN-
PACKAGE
MAX16903RAUE__/V+
Disabled
-40°C to
+125°C
16 TS S OP - E P *
MAX16903RATB__/V+
Disabled
-40°C to
+125°C
10 TD FN -E P*
MAX16903SAUE__/V+
Enabled
-40°C to
+125°C
16 TS S OP - E P *
MAX16903SATB__/V+
Enabled
-40°C to
+125°C
10 TD FN -E P*
Ordering Information
Note: Insert the desired suffix letters (from Selector Guide) into
the blanks to indicate the output voltage. Alternative output volt-
ages available upon request.
+
Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
/V denotes an automotive qualified part.
*
EP = Exposed pad.
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
2Maxim Integrated
MAX16903_50/V+
20kΩ
2.2μF
33kΩ
EN
SYNC
GND
VBAT LEVEL
SIGNAL
PGOOD
BIAS
SUP
*PLACE INPUT SUPPLY CAPACITORS AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO THE SUP PIN. SEE THE APPLICATIONS INFORMATION SECTION FOR MORE DETAILS.
4.7μF
BST
0.1μF
4.7μH
LX
10μF
PGND
5V AT 1A
OUTS
MAX16903_33/V+
20kΩ
2.2μF
33kΩ
EN
SYNC
GND
VBAT LEVEL
SIGNAL
PGOOD
BIAS
SUP
4.7μF
BST
0.1μF
*
*
3.3μH
LX
10μF
PGND
3.3V AT 1A
OUTS
Typical Operating Circuits
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
3
Maxim Integrated
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(VSUP = +14V, TA= TJ= -40°C to +125°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional
operation of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to
absolute maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
Note 1: Package thermal resistances were obtained using the method described in JEDEC specification JESD51-7, using a four-layer
board. For detailed information on package thermal considerations, refer to www.maximintegrated.com/thermal-tutorial.
(Voltages referenced to GND.)
SUP, EN..................................................................-0.3V to +42V
BST to LX..................................................................-0.3V to +6V
LX..............................................................-0.3V to (VSUP + 0.3V)
BST.........................................................................-0.3V to +47V
OUTS......................................................................-0.3V to +12V
SYNC, PGOOD, BIAS............................................-0.3V to +6.0V
PGND to GND .......................................................-0.3V to +0.3V
LX Continuous RMS Current .................................................1.5A
OUTS Short-Circuit Duration ......................................Continuous
ESD Protection
Human Body Model .........................................................±2kV
Machine Model ..............................................................±200V
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA= +70°C)
TDFN (derate 24.4 mW/°C above +70°C)......................1951mW
TSSOP (derate 26.1 mW/°C above +70°C) ...................2089mW
Operating Temperature Range .........................-40°C to +125°C
Junction Temperature......................................................+150°C
Storage Temperature Range .............................-65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) .................................+300°C
Soldering Temperature (reflow) .......................................+260°C
PACKAGE THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS (Note 1)
TDFN
Junction-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance (θJA) ...........41°C/W
Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance (θJC) ..................9°C/W
TSSOP
Junction-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance (θJA) ........38.3°C/W
Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance (θJC) ..................3°C/W
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
(Note 2) 3.5 28
Supply Voltage Range VSUP t < 1s 42 V
EN = low 4 8
EN = high, no load 25 35 µA
Supply Current ISUP
EN = high, continuous, no switching 1 mA
VUVLO Bias rising 2.8 3 3.2
UV Lockout VUVLO,HYS Hysteresis 0.4 V
Bias Voltage VBIAS +5.5V VSUP +42V 5 V
Bias Current Limit IBIAS 10 mA
BUCK CONVERTER
VOUT = 5V, fixed frequency -2.0% 5 +2.5%
VOUT,5V VOUT = 5V, SKIP mode (Note 3) -2.0% 5 +4%
VOUT = 3.3V, fixed frequency -2.0% 3.3 +2.5%
VOUT,3.3V VOUT = 3.3V, SKIP mode (Note 3)
6V VSUP 18V,
ILOAD = 0 to 1A,
TA = 0°C to
+125°C -2.0% 3.3 +4%
VOUT = 5V, fixed frequency -3.0% 5 +2.5%
VOUT,5V VOUT = 5V, SKIP mode (Note 3) -3.0% 5 +4%
VOUT = 3.3V, fixed frequency -3.0% 3.3 +2.5%
Voltage Accuracy
VOUT,3.3V VOUT = 3.3V, SKIP mode (Note 3)
6V VSUP 18V,
ILOAD = 0 to 1A,
TA = -40°C to
+125°C -3.0% 3.3 +4%
V
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
4Maxim Integrated
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(VSUP = +14V, TA= TJ= -40°C to +125°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Skip-Mode Peak Current ISKIP 350 mA
High-Side DMOS RDSON R
ON,HS V
BIAS = 5V 400 800 m
Low-Side DMOS RDSON R
ON,LS 250 450 m
DMOS Peak Current-Limit
Threshold IMAX 1.275 1.5 1.75 A
Soft-Start Ramp Time tSS 7 8 9 ms
LX Rise Time tRISE,LX 5 ns
Minimum On-Time tON 80 ns
PWM Switching Frequency fSW Internally generated 1.925 2.1 2.275 MHz
SYNC Input Frequency Range fSYNC 1.8 2.6 MHz
Spread-Spectrum Range SS Spread-spectrum option only +6 %
PGOOD
VTHR,PGD V
OUT rising 93
PGOOD Threshold VTHF,PGD V
OUT falling 88 91 94 %
PGOOD Debounce tDEB 10 µs
PGOOD HIGH Leakage Current ILEAK,PGD T
A = +25°C 1 µA
PGOOD Output Low Level VOUT,PGD Sinking 1mA 0.4 V
LOGIC LEV EL S
VIH,EN 2.4
EN Level VIL,EN 0.6 V
EN Input Current IIN,EN V
EN = VSUP = +42V, TA = +25°C 1 µA
VIH,SYNC 1.4
SYNC Switching Threshold VIL,SYNC 0.4 V
SYNC Internal Pulldown RPD,SYNC 200 k
THERMAL PROTECTION
Thermal Shutdown TSHDN 175 °C
Thermal Shutdown Hysteresis TSHDN,HYS 15 °C
Note 2: When the typical minimum on-time of 80ns is violated, the device skips pulses.
Note 3: Guaranteed by design; not production tested.
EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT
(5V VERSION)
MAX16903 toc01
ILOAD (A)
EFFICIENCY (%)
0.10.010.0010.0001
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
0
0.00001 1
SKIP MODE
FFF MODE
NO-LOAD SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. INPUT VOLTAGE (SKIP MODE)
MAX16903 toc02
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
SUPPLY CURRENT (µA)
2624222018161412108
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
628
5V PART
3.3V PART
LINE REGULATION
(ILOAD = 1A)
MAX16903 toc03
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
OUTPUT-VOLTAGE CHANGE (%)
26248 10 12 16 18 2014 22
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4
-4
628
LOAD REGULATION
MAX16903 toc04
LOAD CURRENT (A)
OUTPUT-VOLTAGE CHANGE (%)
0.80.60.2 0.4
-3
-2
-1
0
2
1
3
4
-4
0 1.0
SKIP MODE
FFF MODE
SHUTDOWN SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
MAX16903 toc05
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
SUPPLY CURRENT (µA)
2624222018161412108
3
6
9
12
15
0
628
STARTUP WAVEFORM (ILOAD = 1A)
MAX16903 toc06
IINDUCTOR
1A/div
PGOOD
5V/div
VOUT
5V/div
EN
5V/div
1ms/div
SHUTDOWN WAVEFORM (ILOAD = 1A)
MAX16903 toc07
IINDUCTOR
1A/div
PGOOD
5V/div
VOUT
5V/div
EN
5V/div
20µs/div
LOAD-TRANSIENT RESPONSE
(FIXED MODE)
MAX16903 toc08
ILOAD
1A/div
PGOOD
5V/div
VOUT
200mV/div
5V
5V
AC
COUPLED
200µs/div
ILOAD = 100mA TO 1A TO 100mA
Typical Operating Characteristics
(VSUP = +14V, TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
5
Maxim Integrated
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VSUP = +14V, TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
LOAD-TRANSIENT RESPONSE
(SKIP MODE)
MAX16903 toc09
ILOAD
1A/div
PGOOD
5V/div
VOUT
200mV/div
5V
5V
AC-
COUPLED
200µs/div
ILOAD = 100mA TO 1A TO 100mA
UNDERVOLTAGE PULSE (COLD CRANK)
MAX16903 toc10
VSUP
10V/div
VOUT
5V/div
ILOAD
1A/div
PGOOD
5V/div
14V
3.5V
10ms/div
ILOAD = 500mA
STANDBY CURRENT
vs. LOAD CURRENT
MAX16903 toc11
ILOAD (mA)
ISUP (µA)
0.10
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
500
0
0.01 1.00
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
6Maxim Integrated
Pin Description
PIN
TDFN TSSOP
NAME FUNCTION
1 1 BST Bootstrap Capacitor for High-Side Driver (0.1μF)
2 2, 3 SUP
Voltage Supply Input. Connect a 4.7μF ceramic capacitor from SUP to PGND. Place the
capacitor very close to the SUP pin. For the TSSOP-EP package, connect both SUP pins
together for proper operation.
3 4, 5 LX Buck Switching Node. LX is high impedance when the device is off. For the TSSOP package,
connect both LX pins together for proper operation.
4 6, 7 PGND Power Ground. For the TSSOP-EP package, connect both PGND pins together for proper
operation.
MAX16903
+
5 6OUTS PGOOD
4
TOP VIEW
7PGND SYNC
38LX BIAS
29SUP GND
1
TDFN
10BST EN
EP
MAX16903
+
8 9OUTS N.C.
710PGND N.C.
6 11PGND PGOOD
314SUP GND
215SUP EN
116BST N.C.
512LX SYNC
4
TSSOP
13LX BIAS
EP
Pin Configurations
Detailed Description
The MAX16903 is a small, current-mode buck converter
that features synchronous rectification and requires no
external compensation network. The MAX16903 is
designed for 1A output current. The MAX16903 can stay
in dropout by running at 97% duty cycle. It provides an
accurate output voltage within the input range of +6.5V
to +18V. Voltage quality can be monitored by observing
the PGOOD signal. The MAX16903 operates at 2.1MHz
(typ) frequency, which allows for small external compo-
nents, reduced output ripple, and guarantees no AM
band interference.
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
7
Maxim Integrated
Pin Description (continued)
PIN
TDFN TSSOP NAME FUNCTION
5 8 OUTS
Buck Regulator Voltage-Sense Input. Bypass OUTS to PGND with a 10µF or larger X7R
ceramic capacitor.
6 11 PGOOD Open-Drain Power-Good Output
7 12 SYNC
Sync Input. SYNC allows the device to synchronize to other supplies. When connected to
GND or unconnected, skip mode is enabled under light loads. When connected to a clock
source or BIAS, forced PWM mode is enabled.
8 13 BIAS +5V Internal Logic Supply. Connect a 2.2µF ceramic capacitor from BIAS to GND.
9 14 GND Analog Ground
10 15 EN Enable Input. EN is high-voltage compatible. Drive EN HIGH for normal operation.
9, 10, 16 N.C. No Connection. Not internally connected.
 EP Exposed Pad. Connect EP to PGND. Do not use EP as the only ground connection.
Functional Diagram
MAX16903
LSD
PWM
EAMP
COMP
HSD
BIAS
LX
PGND
BST
SUP
LOGIC
CONTROL
CURRENT-SENSE
AND
SLOPE COMPENSATION
SOFT-START
OSCBANDGAP
GND
VGOOD
PGOOD
OUTS
BIAS
HVLDO
SYNC
REF
EN
CLK
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
8Maxim Integrated
The MAX16903 features an ultra-low 25μA (typ) quies-
cent supply current in standby mode. Standby mode is
entered when load currents are below 5mA and when
SYNC is low. The MAX16903 operates from a +3.5V to
+28V supply voltage and tolerates transients up to
+42V, making it ideal for automotive applications. The
MAX16903 is available in factory-trimmed output volt-
ages from 1.8V to 10.7V in 100mV steps. Please con-
tact factory for availability of voltage options.
Enable (EN)
The MAX16903 is activated by driving EN high. EN is
compatible from a +3.3V logic level to automotive bat-
tery levels. EN can be controlled by microcontrollers
and automotive KEY or CAN inhibit signals. The EN
input has no internal pullup/pulldown current to mini-
mize overall quiescent supply current. To realize a pro-
grammable undervoltage lockout level, use a resistor-
divider from SUP to EN to GND.
BIAS/UVLO
The MAX16903 features undervoltage lockout. When the
device is enabled, an internal bias generator turns on.
LX begins switching after VBIAS has exceeded the inter-
nal undervoltage lockout level VUVLO = 3V (typ).
Soft-Start
The MAX16903 features an internal soft-start timer. The
output voltage soft-start ramp time is 8ms (typ). If a
short circuit or undervoltage is encountered, after the
soft-start timer has expired, the device is disabled for
30ms (typ) and it reattempts soft-start again. This pat-
tern repeats until the short circuit has been removed.
Oscillator/Synchronization and
Efficiency (SYNC)
The MAX16903 has an on-chip oscillator that provides
a switching frequency of 2.1MHz (typ). Depending on
the condition of SYNC, two operation modes exist. If
SYNC is unconnected or at GND, the device must oper-
ate in highly efficient pulse-skipping mode if the load
current is below the SKIP mode current threshold. If
SYNC is at BIAS or has a frequency applied to it, the
device is in forced PWM mode. The MAX16903 offers
the best of both worlds. The device can be switched
during operation between forced PWM mode and SKIP
mode by switching SYNC.
SKIP Mode Operation
SKIP mode is entered when the SYNC pin is connected to
ground or is unconnected and the peak load current is
< 350mA (typ). In this mode, the high-side FET is turned
on until the current in the inductor is ramped up to 350mA
(typ) peak value and the internal feedback voltage is
above the regulation voltage (1.2V typ). At this point, both
the high-side and low-side FETs are turned off.
Depending on the choice of the output capacitor and the
load current the high-side FET turns on when OUTS (val-
ley) drops below the 1.2V (typ) feedback voltage.
Achieving High Efficiency at Light Loads
The MAX16903 operates with very low quiescent current
at light loads to enhance efficiency and conserve battery
life. When the MAX16903 enters SKIP mode the output
current is monitored to adjust the quiescent current.
When the output current is < 5mA, the MAX16903 oper-
ates in the lowest quiescent current mode also called the
standby mode. In this mode, the majority of the internal
circuitry (excluding that necessary to maintain regulation)
in the MAX16903, including the internal high-voltage
LDO, is turned off to save current. Under no load and
with SKIP mode enabled, the IC draws only 25μA (typ)
current. For load currents > 5mA, the IC enters normal
SKIP mode still maintaining very high efficiency.
Controlled EMI with Forced-Fixed Frequency
In forced PWM mode, the MAX16903 attempts to oper-
ate at a constant switching frequency for all load cur-
rents. For tightest frequency control, apply the
operating frequency to SYNC. The advantage of this
mode is a constant switching frequency, which
improves EMI performance; the disadvantage is that
considerable current can be thrown away. If the load
current during a switching cycle is less than the current
flowing through the inductor, the excess current is
diverted to GND. With no external load present, the
operating current is in the 10mA range.
Extended Input Voltage Range
In some cases, the MAX16903 is forced to deviate from
its operating frequency independent of the state of SYNC.
For input voltages above 18V, the required duty cycle to
regulate its output may be smaller than the minimum on-
time (80ns, typ). In this event, the MAX16903 is forced to
lower its switching frequency by skipping pulses.
If the input voltage is reduced and the MAX16903
approaches dropout the device tries to turn on the high-
side FET continuously. In order to maintain gate charge
on the high-side FET, the BST capacitor must be period-
ically recharged. To ensure proper charge on the BST
capacitor when in dropout, the high-side FET is turned
off every 6.5μs and the low-side FET is turned on for
about 150ns. This gives an effective duty cycle of > 97%
and a switching frequency of 150kHz when in dropout.
Spread-Spectrum Option
The MAX16903 has an optional spread-spectrum version.
If this option is selected, then the internal operating fre-
quency varies by +6% relative to the internally generated
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
9
Maxim Integrated
operating frequency of 2.1MHz (typ). Spread spectrum is
offered to improve EMI performance of the MAX16903. By
varying the frequency 6% only in the positive direction,
the MAX16903 still guarantees that the 2.1MHz frequency
does not drop into the AM band limit of 1.8MHz.
Additionally, with the low minimum on-time of 80ns (typ)
no pulse skipping is observed for a 5V output with 18V
input maximum battery voltage in steady state.
The internal spread spectrum does not interfere with
the external clock applied on the SYNC pin. It is active
only when the MAX16903 is running with internally gen-
erated switching frequency.
Power-Good (PGOOD)
The MAX16903 features an open-drain power-good
output. PGOOD is an active-high output that pulls low
when the output voltage is below 91% of its nominal
value. PGOOD is high impedance when the output volt-
age is above 93% of its nominal value. Connect a 20kΩ
(typ) pullup resistor to an external supply or the on-chip
BIAS output.
Overcurrent Protection
The MAX16903 limits the peak output current to 1.5A
(typ). The accuracy of the current limit is ±15%, which
makes selection of external components very easy. To
protect against short-circuit events, the MAX16903 will
shut off when OUTS is below 1.5V (typ) and one over-
current event is detected. The MAX16903 attempts a
soft-start restart every 30ms and stays off if the short cir-
cuit has not been removed. When the current limit is no
longer present, it reaches the output voltage by follow-
ing the normal soft-start sequence. If the MAX16903 die
reaches the thermal limit of 175°C (typ) during the cur-
rent-limit event, it immediately shuts off.
Thermal-Overload Protection
The MAX16903 features thermal-overload protection.
The device turns off when the junction temperature
exceeds +175°C (typ). Once the device cools by 15°C
(typ), it turns back on with a soft-start sequence.
Applications Information
Inductor Selection
The nominal inductor value can be calculated using
Table 1 based on the nominal output voltage of the
device. Select the nearest standard inductance value to
the calculated nominal value. The nominal standard
value selected should be within ±25% of LNOM for best
performance.
Input Capacitor
A low-ESR ceramic input capacitor of 1μF or larger is
needed for proper device operation. This value may
need to be larger based on application input-voltage
ripple requirements.
The discontinuous input current of the buck converter
causes large input ripple current. The switching frequen-
cy, peak inductor current, and the allowable peak-to-
peak input-voltage ripple dictate the input capacitance
requirement. Increasing the switching frequency or the
inductor value lowers the peak-to-average current ratio
yielding a lower input capacitance requirement.
The input ripple comprises mainly of ΔVQ(caused by
the capacitor discharge) and ΔVESR (caused by the
ESR of the input capacitor). The total voltage ripple is
the sum of ΔVQand ΔVESR. Assume the input-voltage
ripple from the ESR and the capacitor discharge is
equal to 50% each. The following equations show the
ESR and capacitor requirement for a target voltage rip-
ple at the input:
ESR V
II
CIDD
ESR
OUT PP
IN OUT
=
+
=×−
Δ
Δ
2
1( ))
ΔVf
QSW
×
VOUT (V) LNOM (μH)
1.8 to 3.1 VOUT/0.55
3.2 to 6.5 VOUT/0.96
6.6 to 8.1 VOUT/1.40
8.2 to 10 VOUT/1.75
Table 1. Nominal Output Voltage Values
VOUT (V) CALCULATED
LNOM (μH)
STANDARD
VALUE (μH)
1.8 3.3 3.3
3.3 3.4 3.3
5.0 5.2 4.7
8.0 5.7 5.6
Table 2. Examples for Standard Output
Voltages
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
10 Maxim Integrated
where:
and
where IOUT is the output current, D is the duty cycle,
and fSW is the switching frequency. Use additional
input capacitance at lower input voltages to avoid pos-
sible undershoot below the UVLO threshold during tran-
sient loading.
Output Capacitor
To maintain acceptable phase margin, a minimum
ceramic output capacitor value of 10μF is needed with
a voltage rating 2 times the VOUT voltage. Additional
output capacitance may be needed based on applica-
tion-specific output-voltage ripple requirements.
The allowable output-voltage ripple and the maximum
deviation of the output voltage during step load cur-
rents determine the output capacitance and its ESR.
The output ripple comprises of ΔVQ(caused by the
capacitor discharge) and ΔVESR (caused by the ESR of
the output capacitor). Use low-ESR ceramic or alu-
minum electrolytic capacitors at the output. For alu-
minum electrolytic capacitors, the entire output ripple is
contributed by ΔVESR. Use the ESROUT equation to cal-
culate the ESR requirement and choose the capacitor
accordingly. If using ceramic capacitors, assume the
contribution to the output ripple voltage from the ESR
and the capacitor discharge to be equal. The following
equations show the output capacitance and ESR
requirement for a specified output-voltage ripple.
where:
ΔIP-P is the peak-to-peak inductor current as calculated
above and fSW is the converter’s switching frequency.
The allowable deviation of the output voltage during
fast transient loads also determines the output capaci-
tance and its ESR. The output capacitor supplies the
step load current until the converter responds with a
greater duty cycle. The response time (tRESPONSE)
depends on the closed-loop bandwidth of the convert-
er. The high switching frequency of the MAX16903
allows for a higher closed-loop bandwidth, thus reduc-
ing tRESPONSE and the output capacitance require-
ment. The resistive drop across the output capacitor’s
ESR and the capacitor discharge causes a voltage
droop during a step load. Use a combination of low-
ESR tantalum and ceramic capacitors for better tran-
sient load and ripple/noise performance. Keep the
maximum output-voltage deviations below the tolerable
limits of the electronics being powered. When using a
ceramic capacitor, assume an 80% and 20% contribu-
tion from the output capacitance discharge and the
ESR drop, respectively. Use the following equations to
calculate the required ESR and capacitance value:
where ISTEP is the load step and tRESPONSE is the
response time of the converter. The converter response
time depends on the control-loop bandwidth.
PCB Layout Guidelines
Careful PCB layout is critical to achieve low switching
power losses and clean stable operation. Use a multilayer
board wherever possible for better noise immunity. Refer
to MAX16903 Evaluation Kit for recommended PCB lay-
out. Follow these guidelines for a good PCB layout:
1) The input capacitor (4.7μF, see the applications
schematic in the
Typical Operating Circuits
) should be
placed right next to the SUP pins (pins 2 and 3 on the
TSSOP-EP package) of the MAX16903. Since the
MAX16903 operates at 2.1MHz switching frequency,
this placement is critical for effective decoupling of
high-frequency noise from the SUP pins.
2) Solder the exposed pad to a large copper plane
area under the device. To effectively use this copper
area as heat exchanger between the PCB and ambi-
ent expose the copper area on the top and bottom
side. Add a few small vias or 1 large via on the cop-
ESR V
I
CIt
V
OUT ESR
STEP
OUT STEP RESPONSE
Q
=
=×
Δ
Δ
ΔIVV V
Vf L
V
PP IN OUT OUT
IN SW
OUT RIPPLE
=−×
××
()
_≅+ΔΔVV
ESR Q
DV
V
OUT
IN
=
ΔIVV V
Vf L
PP IN OUT OUT
IN SW
=−×
××
()
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
11
Maxim Integrated
per pad for efficient heat transfer. Connect the
exposed pad to PGND ideally at the return terminal
of the output capacitor.
3) Isolate the power components and high current
paths from sensitive analog circuitry.
4) Keep the high current paths short especially at the
ground terminals. The practice is essential for stable
jitter-free operation.
5) Connect the PGND and GND together preferably at
the return terminal of the output capacitor. Do not
connect them anywhere else.
6) Keep the power traces and load connections short.
This practice is essential for high efficiency. Use
thick copper PCB to enhance full load efficiency and
power dissipation capability.
7) Route high-speed switching nodes away from sensi-
tive analog areas. Use internal PCB layers as PGND
to act as EMI shields to keep radiated noise away
from the device and analog bypass capacitor.
ESD Protection
The ESD tolerance for the MAX16903 is rated for Human
Body Model and Machine Model. The Human Body
Model discharge components are CS= 100pF and RD
= 1.5kΩ(Figure 1). The Machine Model discharge com-
ponents are CS= 200pF and RD= 0Ω(Figure 2).
Figure 1. Human Body ESD Test Circuit
STORAGE
CAPACITOR
HIGH-
VOLTAGE
DC
SOURCE
DEVICE
UNDER
TEST
CHARGE-CURRENT-
LIMIT RESISTOR
DISCHARGE
RESISTANCE
1MΩ
RD
1.5kΩ
CS
100pF
STORAGE
CAPACITOR
HIGH-
VOLTAGE
DC
SOURCE
DEVICE
UNDER
TEST
CHARGE-CURRENT-
LIMIT RESISTOR
DISCHARGE
RESISTANCE
RD
0Ω
CS
200pF
Figure 2. Machine Model ESD Test Circuit
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
12 Maxim Integrated
Selector Guide
PART OUTPUT VOLTAGE
(V) PIN-PACKAGE SPREAD-SPECTRUM
SWITCHING FREQUENCY
TOP
MARK
MAX16903RATB50+ 5 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) AZO
MAX16903RATB50/V+ 5 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) AVU
MAX16903RAUE50+ 5 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) 
MAX16903RAUE50/V+ 5 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) 
MAX16903SATB50+ 5 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) Yes AZQ
MAX16903SATB50/V+ 5 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) Yes AVW
MAX16903SAUE50+ 5 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) Yes
MAX16903SAUE50/V+ 5 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) Yes
MAX16903RATB33+ 3.3 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) AZN
MAX16903RATB33/V+ 3.3 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) AVT
MAX16903RAUE33+ 3.3 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) 
MAX16903RAUE33/V+ 3.3 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) 
MAX16903SATB33+ 3.3 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) Yes AZP
MAX16903SATB33/V+ 3.3 10 TDFN-EP*
(3mm x 3mm x 0.75mm) Yes AVV
MAX16903SAUE33+ 3.3 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) Yes
MAX16903SAUE33/V+ 3.3 16 TSSOP-EP*
(5mm x 4.4mm) Yes
Note: All devices operate over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.
+
Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
/V denotes an automotive qualified part.
*
EP = Exposed pad.
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
13
Maxim Integrated
Chip Information
PROCESS: BiCMOS
PACKAGE
TYPE
PACKAGE
CODE
OUTLINE
NO.
LAND
PATTERN NO.
10 TDFN-EP T1033+1 21-0137 90-0003
16 TSSOP-EP U16E+3 21-0108 90-0120
Package Information
For the latest package outline information and land patterns (foot-
prints), go to www.maximintegrated.com/packages. Note that a
“+”, “#”, or “-” in the package code indicates RoHS status only.
Package drawings may show a different suffix character, but the
drawing pertains to the package regardless of RoHS status.
Maxim Integrated cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim Integrated product. No circuit patent
licenses are implied. Maxim Integrated reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time. The parametric values (min and
max limits) shown in the Electrical Characteristics table are guaranteed. Other parametric values quoted in this data sheet are provided for guidance.
14
________________________________Maxim Integrated 160 Rio Robles, San Jose, CA 95134 USA 1-408-601-1000
© 2013 Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. Maxim Integrated and the Maxim Integrated logo are trademarks of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
MAX16903
2.1MHz, High-Voltage, 1A Mini-Buck Converter
Revision History
REVISION
NUMBER
REVISION
DATE DESCRIPTION PAGES
CHANGED
0 10/09 Initial release
1 7/10
Updated the General Description, Typical Operating Circuits, Absolute Maximum Ratings,
Electrical Characteristics table, Typical Operating Characteristics, Pin Description, and
Detailed Description
1–10
2 8/10 Corrected a typo in the TSSOP Pin Configuration (pin 2 is SUP, not N.C.) 6
3 3/11
Updated the Voltage Accuracy and DMOS Peak Current-Limit Threshold parameters in
the Electrical Characteristics, updated the high-side FET in the Skip Mode Operation
section and the output current in the Inductor Selection section
3, 4, 8, 9
4 6/13
Replaced the Inductor Selection section, and updated the Input Capacitor,Output
Capacitor, and Selector Guide sections 9–11