Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1760EUB+

MAX1760EUB Step-Up DC-DC Converter Product Summary

The MAX1760EUB, designed by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, is a highly efficient and compact step-up (boost) DC-DC converter intended for modern, battery-powered electronic systems. The device is available in space-saving 10-pin μMAX and 10-pin TDFN packages, making it ideal for dense designs where board area is at a premium. Engineered to provide an adjustable output voltage between 2.5V and 5.5V (with a fixed 3.3V option), it delivers up to 1A switch current capability, addressing power requirements in portable electronics.

Highlighted Features and Advantages of the MAX1760EUB

The MAX1760EUB incorporates advanced design features to maximize efficiency and minimize noise. Notable highlights include:

Wide 0.7V to 5.5V input voltage range, enabling operation from single-cell to triple-cell battery configurations (alkaline, NiMH/NiCd, or Li-ion).

Up to 94% efficiency, optimizing battery life in portable systems.

1MHz fixed switching frequency supports use of small inductors and capacitors for compact designs.

Synchronous rectification, reducing losses compared with conventional boost topologies.

Ultra-low quiescent current (100μA during operation, 0.1μA in shutdown), which preserves battery energy during standby.

Multiple operating modes: automatic PWM/PFM selection, forced-PWM for low-noise applications, and external clock synchronization (500kHz–1.2MHz) for EMI-sensitive designs.

Soft-start and adjustable current limit, allowing customized response to system requirements and control over inrush currents.

Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) rated at 1 (unlimited shelf life under standard conditions) and wide -40°C to +85°C operating range, suitable for industrial and consumer applications.

Common Uses of the MAX1760EUB in Electronics Engineering

The versatility and efficiency of the MAX1760EUB make it especially suited for a broad array of portable and battery-operated products that require efficient step-up voltage conversion. Common application domains include:

Digital cordless and PCS phones

Handheld and palmtop computers

Wireless handsets and two-way pagers

Portable meters and instrumentation

Personal digital assistants and communicators

This converter is particularly advantageous in situations where both high efficiency and low EMI are required—such as in sensitive wireless communication and measurement devices.

Electrical Specifications and Performance Indicators for the MAX1760EUB

The MAX1760EUB offers robust electrical performance, starting reliably with input voltages as low as 1.1V and operating continuously down to 0.7V, thanks to its low-voltage startup circuitry. The device handles up to 0.8A output and supports output configurations up to 5.5V. Key electrical parameters include:

Input voltage: 0.7V (operation) to 5.5V

Output voltage: Adjustable from 2.5V to 5.5V, fixed 3.3V via feedback pin

Switch current limit: Up to 1.25A (adjustable)

Shutdown current: 0.1μA (logic-controlled)

Power dissipation: depends on package and board, up to 1951mW for 10-pin TDFN on multilayer boards

Additionally, EMI and ripple are kept low through optimized topology and high-frequency operation, enabling the MAX1760EUB to meet stringent noise requirements in RF circuits.

Operation Details and Design Adaptability of the MAX1760EUB

At the heart of the MAX1760EUB is a boost switching regulator that integrates high-side N-channel and synchronous P-channel MOSFETs for maximum efficiency. A 1.24V reference supports both fixed and adjustable output voltages, set via external resistor networks.

The device’s “Idle Mode™” automatically transitions between pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) at light loads for efficiency, and pulse-width modulation (PWM) at heavier loads for stable operation. Forced-PWM mode is selectable for designs requiring constant-frequency operation across all load conditions, such as noise-sensitive applications.

An analog soft-start mechanism and adjustable current limiting are provided via the ISET pin, allowing engineers to optimize inrush current, component selection, and startup behavior. For output voltages above 4V, or for cold start operation below 1.8V input, an external Schottky diode is recommended in parallel with the synchronous rectifier.

Component Selection Recommendations for MAX1760EUB Applications

Selecting appropriate external components is critical to achieving desired performance with the MAX1760EUB:

Inductors: A 3.3μH surface-mount inductor is typical, with current ratings to match the design ISET limit; a high-frequency ferrite core type is preferred for efficiency and low EMI.

Input capacitors: Low-ESR types such as 33μF are recommended for decoupling the source, with higher values as needed for higher-impedance batteries.

Output capacitors: A 100μF low-ESR device handles transient currents and suppresses voltage ripple; polymer or tantalum types are preferred over aluminum electrolytics.

Reference and bypass: 0.22μF for REF, 0.68μF ceramic for OUT, and a 4.7Ω resistor between OUT and POUT, all placed close to the IC.

For output voltages >4V or startup below 1.8V, use a fast-recovery Schottky diode (e.g., MBR0520L, 1N5817) in parallel with the internal synchronous rectifier.

Designers are advised to follow the datasheet’s equations and application circuits for setting feedback networks, current limits, and soft-start timing suitable to the end equipment’s requirements.

PCB Layout Tips for the MAX1760EUB Step-Up Converter

The high switching frequency and large peak currents inherent to the MAX1760EUB mandate careful PCB layout. Key rules include:

Position critical power-network components (inductor, capacitors, Schottky diode, IC) close together, using short, wide traces for current paths.

Place the feedback sensing network near the IC FB pin to avoid noise pickup.

Use ground planes and keep the inductor switching node isolated from sensitive analog signals to reduce EMI.

Reference the manufacturer’s evaluation board layout as a starting point for robust designs.

Package Specifications and Environmental Compliance of the MAX1760EUB

The MAX1760EUB is available in two small-outline packages: the 10-pin μMAX (3.00mm width) and 10-pin TDFN (3mm x 3mm with exposed pad) footprints. Both package types allow dense placement in portable applications, and the exposed pad improves thermal dissipation in high-current scenarios.

Environmental compliance is supported by an MSL rating of 1 (unlimited), and the device operates across a -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature range. The product’s mechanical design conforms to standard JEDEC package outlines, with careful coplanarity and warpage control.

Alternative or Substitute Devices for the MAX1760EUB

Application engineers considering design options may evaluate the following alternative solutions to the MAX1760EUB, depending on availability, cost, and specific features:

MAX1760H (variant with logic-high enable input)

Texas Instruments TPS61030/31 (high-efficiency boost converters with similar input/output ranges)

Analog Devices LTC3122 (1.5MHz, 15V boost converter)

Linear Technology LTC3426 (synchronous, 2A boost converter)

When substituting, verify key requirements such as input voltage, output current, control logic, package, and feature set to ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints and system constraints.

Conclusion

The MAX1760EUB step-up DC-DC converter from Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated stands out for its blend of efficiency, integration, and flexibility in low-voltage, battery-operated systems. Its wide input/output voltage range, multiple operational modes, and thoughtful analog features enable robust, compact, and noise-sensitive designs in portable electronics. By following well-established selection and layout guidelines, engineers and procurement professionals can confidently integrate the MAX1760EUB into next-generation portable products, ensuring top performance and long operational life. For projects requiring adaptive, high-performance power conversion, the MAX1760EUB is a compelling choice—and an industry benchmark for step-up DC-DC solutions.