MAXIM MAX1837EUT33

19-1919; Rev 1; 01/02
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
____________________________Features
♦ 4.5V to 24V Input Voltage Range
The unique current-limited control scheme, operating
with duty cycles up to 100%, minimizes the dropout
voltage (120mV at 100mA). Additionally, this control
scheme reduces supply current under light loads to
12µA. High switching frequencies allow the use of tiny
surface-mount inductors and output capacitors.
The MAX1836/MAX1837 step-down converters with
internal switching MOSFETs are available in a 6-pin
SOT23 package, making them ideal for low-cost, lowpower, space-sensitive applications. For increased output drive capability, use the MAX1776 step-down
converter that uses an internal 24V switch to deliver up
to 500mA. For even higher currents, use the MAX1626/
MAX1627 step-down controllers that drive an external
P-channel MOSFET to deliver up to 20W.
♦ Internal P-Channel MOSFET
♦ Preset 3.3V or 5V Output
♦ Adjustable Output from 1.25V to VIN
♦ Output Currents Up to 125mA (MAX1836) or
250mA (MAX1837)
♦ Efficiency Over 90%
♦ 12µA Quiescent Current
♦ 3µA Shutdown Current
♦ 100% Maximum Duty Cycle for Low Dropout
♦ Current-Limiting and Overtemperature Protection
♦ Small 6-Pin SOT23 Package
Ordering Information
TOP
MARK
PART
TEMP RANGE
PINPACKAGE
MAX1836EUT50-T
-40°C to +85°C
6 SOT23-6
AANW
MAX1836EUT33-T
-40°C to +85°C
6 SOT23-6
AANY
MAX1837EUT50-T
-40°C to +85°C
6 SOT23-6
AANX
9V Battery Systems
MAX1837EUT33-T
-40°C to +85°C
6 SOT23-6
AANZ
Notebook Computers
Note: The MAX1836/MAX1837 require special solder temperature profile described in the Absolute Maximum Ratings.
________________________Applications
Distributed Power Systems
Selector Guide
Backup Supplies
4mA to 20mA Loop Power Supplies
PART
Industrial Control Supplies
Hand-Held Devices
Typical Operating Circuit
INPUT
4.5V TO 24V
PRESET OUTPUT
VOLTAGE (V)
MAX1836EUT50
5
125
MAX1836EUT33
3.3
125
MAX1837EUT50
5
250
MAX1837EUT33
3.3
250
OUTPUT
3.3V OR 5V
IN
LOAD
CURRENT (mA)
Pin Configuration
LX
TOP VIEW
SHDN
OUT
MAX1836
MAX1837
GND
FB 1
GND 2
MAX1836
MAX1837
6
OUT
5
SHDN
4
LX
FB
IN 3
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
SOT23
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim/Dallas Direct! at
1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim’s website at www.maxim-ic.com.
1
MAX1836/MAX1837
General Description
The MAX1836/MAX1837 high-efficiency step-down
converters provide a preset 3.3V or 5V output voltage
from supply voltages as high as 24V. Using external
feedback resistors, the output voltage may be adjusted
from 1.25V to VIN. An internal current-limited switching
MOSFET delivers load currents up to 125mA
(MAX1836) or 250mA (MAX1837).
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
IN, SHDN to GND ...................................................-0.3V to +25V
LX to GND.......................................................-2V to (VIN + 0.3V)
OUT, FB to GND.......................................................-0.3V to +6V
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA = +70°C) (Note 1)
6-Pin SOT23 (derate 8.7mW/°C above +70°C)............696mW
Operating Temperature Range ...........................-40°C to +85°C
Junction Temperature ......................................................+150°C
Storage Temperature Range .............................-65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) .................................+300°C
Note 1: Thermal properties are specified with product mounted on PC board with 1in2 of copper area and still air.
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.
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = 0°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C,
unless otherwise noted.)
PARAMETER
Input Supply Range
Input Undervoltage Lockout
Threshold
Input Supply Current
Input Supply Current in Dropout
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
VIN
VUVLO
MIN
MAX
UNITS
24
V
VIN rising
3.55
4.0
4.4
VIN falling
3.45
3.9
4.3
12
25
IIN
IIN(DROP)
TYP
4.5
VIN = 5V
18
Input Shutdown Current
SHDN = GND
3
7
5.00
5.20
Output Voltage (Preset Mode)
FB = GND,
ILOAD = 0 to 125mA
(MAX1836) or
250mA (MAX1837)
VOUT
Output Voltage Range
(Adjustable Mode)
VOUT
Feedback Set Voltage
(Adjustable Mode)
VFB
OUT Bias Current
FB Bias Current
TM
FB Dual Mode
Threshold
tOFF(MIN)
LX Switch Maximum On-Time
tON(MAX)
RLX
ILIM
MAX183_EUT33
3.168
VFB = 0 or 1.25V, TA = +25°C
3.30
1.25
1.200
µA
µA
1.25
2.5
-25
3.432
VIN
V
1.300
V
7.4
µA
+25
nA
mV
50
100
150
0.2
0.4
0.6
µs
7
10
13
µs
1.1
2
Ω
MAX1836
250
312
450
MAX1837
500
625
850
VFB = 1.3V
VIN = 6V
LX Zero-Crossing Threshold
-75
Dual Mode is a trademark of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
2
µA
V
(Note 2)
VFB rising or falling
LX Switch Minimum Off-Time
LX Current Limit
4.80
VOUT = 5V
IFB
LX Switch On-Resistance
MAX183_EUT50
V
_______________________________________________________________________________________
+75
mA
mV
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = 0°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C,
unless otherwise noted.)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
Zero-Crossing Timeout
LX Switch Leakage Current
Dropout Voltage
CONDITIONS
MIN
LX does not rise above the threshold
TYP
VIN = 18V, LX = GND, TA = +25°C
VDROPOUT
MAX
30
UNITS
µs
1
µA
IOUT = 100mA, VIN = 5V
120
mV
Line Regulation
VIN = 5V to 24V
0.05
%
Load Regulation
IOUT = 0 to 125mA (MAX1836) or 250mA
(MAX1837)
0.3
%
Shutdown Input Threshold
V SHDN
VIN = 4.5V to 24V (Note 3)
0.8
Shutdown Leakage Current
ISHDN
V SHDN = 0 or 24V
-1
Thermal Shutdown
10°C hysteresis (typ)
2.4
V
+1
µA
°C
160
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = -40°C to +85°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 4)
PARAMETER
Input Supply Range
Input Undervoltage Lockout
Threshold
Input Supply Current
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MAX
UNITS
4.5
24
V
VIN rising
3.55
4.4
VIN falling
3.45
4.3
VIN
VUVLO
MIN
IIN
Input Shutdown Current
SHDN = GND
Output Voltage (Preset Mode)
FB = GND,
ILOAD = 0 to 125mA
(MAX1836) or
250mA (MAX1837)
VOUT
Output Voltage Range
(Adjustable Mode)
VOUT
Feedback Set Voltage
(Adjustable Mode)
VFB
(Note 2)
OUT Bias Current
VOUT = 5V
FB Dual Mode Threshold
VFB rising or falling
LX Switch Minimum Off-Time
tOFF(MIN)
LX Switch Maximum On-Time
tON(MAX)
LX Switch On-Resistance
RLX
LX Current Limit
ILIM
VFB = 1.3V
MAX183_EUT50
4.80
TYP
V
25
µA
7
µA
5.20
V
MAX183_EUT33
3.168
3.432
1.25
VIN
V
1.200
1.300
V
7.4
µA
50
150
mV
0.2
0.6
µs
7
13
µs
2
Ω
VIN = 6V
MAX1836
250
450
MAX1837
500
900
mA
_______________________________________________________________________________________
3
MAX1836/MAX1837
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = -40°C to +85°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 4)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
LX Zero-Crossing Threshold
TYP
MAX
UNITS
mV
-75
+75
Shutdown Input Threshold
V SHDN
VIN = 4.5V to 24V (Note 3)
0.8
2.4
V
Shutdown Leakage Current
ISHDN
V SHDN = 0 or 24V
-1
+1
µA
Note 2: When using the shutdown input, the maximum output voltage allowed with external feedback is 5.5V. If the output voltage is
set above 5.5V, connect shutdown to the input.
Note 3: Shutdown input minimum slew rate (rising or falling) is 10V/ms.
Note 4: Specifications to -40°C are guaranteed by design, not production tested.
Typical Operating Characteristics
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = +25°C.)
MAX1836EUT33
EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT
3.31
3.30
VIN = 9V to 12V
3.29
VIN = 9V
90
85
80
MAX1836/7 toc03
VIN = 5V
EFFICIENCY (%)
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
VIN = 5V
FIGURE 1
VOUT = 3.3V
95
3.33
MAX1836/7 toc02
FIGURE 1
3.32
100
MAX1836/7 toc01
3.33
MAX1837EUT33
OUTPUT VOLTAGE vs. LOAD CURRENT
FIGURE 2
3.32
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
MAX1836EUT33
OUTPUT VOLTAGE vs. LOAD CURRENT
3.31
VIN = 5V
VIN = 9V
3.30
VIN = 12V
3.29
VIN = 12V
70
3.27
50
100
150
3.27
0.1
200
1
10
100
1000
0
150
200
250
300
350
MAX1837EUT33
EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT
MAX1837EUT33
SWITCHING FREQUENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT
MAX1837EUT33
OUTPUT VOLTAGE vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
85
80
VIN = 9V
140
VIN = 12V
120
3.33
IOUT = 10mA
3.32
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
VIN = 9V
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
160
FREQUENCY (kHz)
VIN = 5V
90
180
MAX1836/7 toc04
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
100
80
60
3.31
75
IOUT = 200mA
3.30
3.29
70
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
0
1000
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
L1 = 47µH
3.28
VIN = 5V
20
VIN = 12V
3.27
0
50
100
150
200
250
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
300
350
MAX1836/7 toc06
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
40
4
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
100
0.1
50
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
MAX1836/7 toc05
0
95
3.28
75
3.28
EFFICIENCY (%)
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
0
4
8
12
16
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
20
24
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = +25°C.)
80
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
L1 = 47µH
10
IOUT = 10mA
75
IOUT = 10mA
70
1000
800
IOUT = 10mA
400
200
8
12
16
20
24
LIMITED BY
tON(MIN)
0
0
4
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
8
12
16
20
0
24
4
VIN = 12V TO 24V
VIN = 9V
100
5.00
VIN = 7V
VIN = 9V
VIN = 7V
4.98
FIGURE 6
VOUT = 5V
95
EFFICIENCY (%)
5.02
8
12
16
20
24
MAX1837EUT50
EFFICIENCY vs. LOAD CURRENT
MAX1836/7 toc10
5.04
LIMITED BY
ILIM
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
MAX1837EUT50
OUTPUT VOLTAGE vs. LOAD CURRENT
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
VIN = 12V
90
85
80
75
VIN = 18V
VIN = 24V
FIGURE 6
4.96
70
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
0.1
1
10
100
1000
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
MAX1837EUT50
DROPOUT VOLTAGE vs. LOAD CURRENT
NO-LOAD SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
FIGURE 6
VOUT = 5V
350
15
14
SUPPLY CURRENT (µA)
300
250
200
150
100
MAX1836/7 toc13
400
MAX1836/7 toc12
4
IOUT = 200mA
600
1
0
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
L1 = 47µH
MAX1836/7 toc09
MAX1836/7 toc08
IOUT = 200mA
PEAK INDUCTOR CURRENT (mA)
IOUT = 200mA
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
EFFICIENCY (%)
90
85
100
FREQUENCY (kHz)
FIGURE 2
VOUT = 3.3V
L1 = 47µH
MAX1836/7 toc07
100
95
MAX1837EUT33
PEAK INDUCTOR CURRENT vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
MAX1837EUT33
SWITCHING FREQUENCY vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
MAX1836/7 toc11
MAX1837EUT33
EFFICIENCY vs. INPUT VOLTAGE
13
12
11
50
0
10
0
100
200
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
300
0
4
8
12
16
20
24
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
5
MAX1836/MAX1837
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(Circuits of Figures 1 (MAX1836) and 2 (MAX1837), VIN = 12V, SHDN = IN, TA = +25°C.)
MAX1837EUT50
LINE TRANSIENT
MAX1837EUT50
LOAD TRANSIENT
MAX1836/7 toc15
MAX1836/7 toc14
20V
400mA
200mA
A
0
0
5.02V
5.1V
5.00V
B
4.9V
750mA
500mA
C
B
5.0V
4.98V
250mA
0
A
10V
C
0
400µs/div
100µs/div
A: VIN = 9V to 18V, 10V/div
B: VOUT = 5V, ROUT = 100Ω, 100mV/div
C: IL, 500mA/div
FIGURE 6
A: IOUT = 10mA to 250mA, 200mA/div
B: VOUT = 5V, 20mV/div
C: IL, 500mA/div
VIN = 12V, FIGURE 6
MAX1837EUT50
STARTUP WAVEFORM
MAX1837EUT50
LINE TRANSIENT NEAR DROPOUT
MAX1836/7 toc17
MAX1836/7 toc16
15V
10V
A
2V
A
0
5V
4V
5.1V
B
5.0V
2V
B
0
4.9V
500mA
500mA
C
C
0
0
400µs/div
A: VIN = 5V to 12V, 5V/div
B: VOUT = 5V, ROUT = 100Ω, 100mV/div
C: IL, 500mA/div
FIGURE 6
6
200µs/div
A: VSHDN = 0 to 2V, 2V/div
B: VOUT = 5V, ROUT = 100Ω, 2V/div
C: IL, 500mA/div
VIN = 12V, FIGURE 6
_______________________________________________________________________________________
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
PIN
NAME
FUNCTION
Dual-Mode Feedback Input. Connect to GND for the preset 3.3V (MAX183_EUT33) or 5.0V (MAX183_EUT50)
output. Connect to a resistive divider between the output and FB to adjust the output voltage between 1.25V
and VIN, and connect the OUT pin to GND. When setting output voltages above 5.5V, permanently connect
SHDN to IN.
1
FB
2
GND
3
IN
Input Voltage. 4.5V to 24V input range. Connected to the internal P-channel power MOSFET’s source.
4
LX
Inductor Connection. Connected to the internal P-channel power MOSFET’s drain.
5
SHDN
Shutdown Input. A logic low shuts down the MAX1836/MAX1837 and reduces supply current to 3µA. LX is
high impedance in shutdown. Connect to IN for normal operation. When setting output voltages above 5.5V,
permanently connect SHDN to IN.
6
OUT
Regulated Output Voltage High-Impedance Sense Input. Internally connected to a resistive divider. Connect
to the output when using the preset output voltage. Connect to GND when using an external resistive divider
to adjust the output voltage.
INPUT
4.5V OR 12V
CIN
10µF
25V
Ground
L1
47µH
IN
OUTPUT
3.3V OR 5V
LX
D1
SHDN
COUT
100µF
6.3V
INPUT
4.5V OR 12V
CIN
10µF
25V
L1
22µH
IN
LX
D1
SHDN
OUT
COUT
150µF
6.3V
OUT
MAX1836
GND
OUTPUT
3.3V OR 5V
MAX1837
FB
GND
FB
CIN = TAIYO YUDEN TMK432BJ106KM
L1 = SUMIDA CDRH5D28-470
COUT = SANYO POSCAP 6TPC100M (SMALLER CAPACITORS CAN BE USED FOR 5V)
D1 = NIHON EP05Q03L
CIN = TAIYO YUDEN TMK432BJ106KM
L1 = SUMIDA CDRH5D28-220
COUT = SANYO OS-CON 6SA150M (SMALLER CAPACITORS CAN BE USED FOR 5V)
D1 = NIHON ED05Q03L
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
Figure 1. Typical MAX1836 Application Circuit
Figure 2. Typical MAX1837 Application Circuit
Detailed Description
The MAX1836/MAX1837 step-down converters are
designed primarily for battery-powered devices, notebook computers, and industrial control applications. A
unique current-limited control scheme provides high
efficiency over a wide load range. Operation up to
100% duty cycle allows the lowest possible dropout
voltage, increasing the useable supply voltage range.
Under no-load, the MAX1836/MAX1837 draw only
12µA, and in shutdown mode, they draw only 3µA to
further reduce power consumption and extend battery
life. Additionally, an internal 24V switching MOSFET,
internal current sensing, and a high switching frequency minimize PC board space and component cost.
Current-Limited Control Architecture
The MAX1836/MAX1837 use a proprietary current-limited control scheme that operates with duty cycles up to
100%. These DC-DC converters pulse as needed to
maintain regulation, resulting in a variable switching frequency that increases with the load. This eliminates the
high supply currents associated with conventional con-
_______________________________________________________________________________________
7
MAX1836/MAX1837
Pin Description
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
INPUT
4.5V OR 24V
CIN
L1
LX
IN
SHDN
OUTPUT
3.3V OR 5V
D1
COUT
VSENSE
OUT
R
Q
FB
MAXIMUM
OFF-TIME
DELAY
S
Q
TRIG
100mV
Q
TRIG
MAXIMUM
ON-TIME
DELAY
VSET
1.25V
GND
MAX1836
MAX1837
Figure 3. Functional Diagram
stant-frequency pulse-width-modulation (PWM) controllers that switch the MOSFET unnecessarily.
When the output voltage is too low, an error comparator
sets a flip-flop, which turns on the internal P-channel
MOSFET and begins a switching cycle (Figure 3). As
shown in Figure 4, the inductor current ramps up linearly, charging the output capacitor and servicing the
load. The MOSFET turns off when the current limit is
reached, or when the maximum on-time is exceeded
while the output voltage is in regulation. Otherwise, the
MOSFET remains on, allowing a duty cycle up to 100%
to ensure the lowest possible dropout voltage. Once
the MOSFET turns off, the flip-flop resets, diode D1
turns on, and the current through the inductor ramps
back down, transferring the stored energy to the output
capacitor and load. The MOSFET remains off until the
0.5µs minimum off-time expires and the inductor current ramps down to zero, and the output voltage drops
back below the set point.
8
10V
A
0
B
3.3V
500mA
C
0
4µs/div
CIRCUIT OF FIGURE 2, VIN = 12V
A. VLX, 5V/div
B. VOUT = 3.3V, 20mV/div, 200mA LOAD
C. INDUCTOR CURRENT, 500mA/div
Figure 4. Discontinuous-Conduction Operation
_______________________________________________________________________________________
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
Dropout voltage is defined as the difference between
the input and output voltages when the input is low
enough for the output to drop out of regulation. For a
step-down converter with 100% duty cycle, the dropout
voltage depends on the MOSFET drain-to-source onresistance (RDS(ON)) and inductor series resistance;
therefore, it is proportional to the load current:
(
VDROPOUT = IOUT × RDS(ON) + RINDUCTOR
)
Shutdown (SHDN)
A logic-level low voltage on SHDN shuts down the
MAX1836/MAX1837. When shut down, the supply current drops to 3µA to maximize battery life, and the internal P-channel MOSFET turns off to isolate the output
from the input. The output capacitance and load current determine the rate at which the output voltage
decays. A logic-level high voltage on SHDN activates
the MAX1836/MAX1837. Do not leave SHDN floating. If
unused, connect SHDN to IN. When setting output voltages above 5.5V, the shutdown feature cannot be
used, so SHDN must be permanently connected to IN.
The SHDN input voltage slew rate must be greater than
10V/ms.
Thermal-Overload Protection
Thermal-overload protection limits total power dissipation in the MAX1836/MAX1837. When the junction temperature exceeds TJ = +160°C, a thermal sensor turns
off the pass transistor, allowing the IC to cool. The thermal sensor turns the pass transistor on again after the
IC’s junction temperature cools by 10°C, resulting in
a pulsed output during continuous thermal-overload
conditions.
(see the Selector Guide). For example, the
MAX1836EUT33 has a preset 3.3V output voltage.
The MAX1836/MAX1837 output voltage may be adjusted by connecting a voltage divider from the output to
FB (Figure 5). When externally adjusting the output voltage, connect OUT to GND. Select R2 in the 10kΩ to
100kΩ range. Calculate R1 with the following equation:
 V
 
R1 = R2  OUT  - 1
 VFB  
where VFB = 1.25V, and VOUT may range from 1.25V to
VIN. When setting output voltages above 5.5V, the shutdown feature cannot be used, so SHDN must be permanently connected to IN.
Inductor Selection
When selecting the inductor, consider these four parameters: inductance value, saturation current rating,
series resistance, and size. The MAX1836/MAX1837
operate with a wide range of inductance values. For
most applications, values between 10µH and 100µH
work best with the controller’s switching frequency.
Calculate the minimum inductance value as follows:
L(MIN) =
The feedback input features dual-mode operation.
Connect the output to OUT and FB to GND for the preset output voltage. The MAX1836/MAX1837 are supplied with factory-set output voltages of 3.3V or 5V. The
two-digit part number suffix identifies the output voltage
ILIM
where tON(MIN) = 1.0µs. Inductor values up to six times
L(MIN) are acceptable. Low-value inductors may be
smaller in physical size and less expensive, but they
result in higher peak-current overshoot due to currentsense comparator propagation delay (300ns). Peakcurrent overshoot reduces efficiency and could exceed
the current ratings of the internal switching MOSFET
and external components.
INPUT
4.5V OR 24V
IN
CIN
OUTPUT
1.25V TO VIN
L1
LX
D1
SHDN
R1
COUT
FB
Design Information
Output Voltage Selection
(VIN(MAX) - VOUT ) t ON(MIN)
MAX1836
MAX1837
GND
R2
OUT
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
Figure 5. Adjustable Output Voltage
_______________________________________________________________________________________
9
MAX1836/MAX1837
Input-Output (Dropout) Voltage
A step-down converter’s minimum input-to-output voltage differential (dropout voltage) determines the lowest
useable input supply voltage. In battery-powered systems, this limits the useful end-of-life battery voltage. To
maximize battery life, the MAX1836/MAX1837 operate
with duty cycles up to 100%, which minimizes the inputto-output voltage differential. When the supply voltage
approaches the output voltage, the P-channel MOSFET
remains on continuously to supply the load.
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
The inductor’s saturation current rating must be greater
than the peak switching current, which is determined
by the switch current limit plus the overshoot due to the
300ns current-sense comparator propagation delay:
IPEAK = ILIM +
(VIN - VOUT ) 300ns
L
where the switch current-limit (ILIM) is typically 312mA
(MAX1836) or 625mA (MAX1837). Saturation occurs
when the inductor’s magnetic flux density reaches the
maximum level the core can support, and the inductance starts to fall.
Inductor series resistance affects both efficiency and
dropout voltage (see the Input-Output Voltage section).
High series resistance limits the maximum current available at lower input voltages and increases the dropout
voltage. For optimum performance, select an inductor
with the lowest possible DC resistance that fits in the
allotted dimensions. Typically, the inductor’s series
resistance should be significantly less than that of the
internal P-channel MOSFET’s on-resistance (1.1Ω typ).
Inductors with a ferrite core, or equivalent, are recommended.
The maximum output current of the MAX1836/MAX1837
current-limited converter is limited by the peak inductor
current. For the typical application, the maximum output current is approximately:
IOUT(MAX) =
1
IPEAK
2
Output Capacitor
Choose the output capacitor to supply the maximum
load current with acceptable voltage ripple. The output
ripple has two components: variations in the charge
stored in the output capacitor with each LX pulse, and
the voltage drop across the capacitor’s equivalent
series resistance (ESR) caused by the current into and
out of the capacitor:
VRIPPLE ≈ VRIPPLE(ESR) + VRIPPLE(C)
The output voltage ripple as a consequence of the ESR
and output capacitance is:
VRIPPLE(ESR) = IPEAKESR
L(IPEAK - IOUT ) 

VIN

2COUT VOUT  VIN - VOUT 
2
VRIPPLE(C) =
where I PEAK is the peak inductor current (see the
Inductor Selection section). These equations are suit10
able for initial capacitor selection, but final values
should be set by testing a prototype or evaluation circuit. As a general rule, a smaller amount of charge
delivered in each pulse results in less output ripple.
Since the amount of charge delivered in each oscillator
pulse is determined by the inductor value and input
voltage, the voltage ripple increases with larger inductance but decreases with lower input voltages.
With low-cost aluminum electrolytic capacitors, the
ESR-induced ripple can be larger than that caused by
the current into and out of the capacitor. Consequently,
high-quality low-ESR aluminum-electrolytic, tantalum,
polymer, or ceramic filter capacitors are required to
minimize output ripple. Best results at reasonable cost
are typically achieved with an aluminum-electrolytic
capacitor in the 100µF range, in parallel with a 0.1µF
ceramic capacitor.
Input Capacitor
The input filter capacitor reduces peak currents drawn
from the power source and reduces noise and voltage
ripple on the input caused by the circuit’s switching.
The input capacitor must meet the ripple-current
requirement (IRMS) imposed by the switching currents
defined by the following equation:
IRMS = ILOAD
VOUT (VIN - VOUT )
VIN
For most applications, nontantalum chemistries (ceramic, aluminum, polymer, or OS-CON) are preferred due
to their robustness with high inrush currents typical of
systems with low-impedance battery inputs.
Alternatively, two (or more) smaller-value low-ESR
capacitors can be connected in parallel for lower cost.
Choose an input capacitor that exhibits <+10°C temperature rise at the RMS input current for optimal circuit
longevity.
Diode Selection
The current in the external diode (D1) changes abruptly
from zero to its peak value each time the LX switch
turns off. To avoid excessive losses, the diode must
have a fast turn-on time and a low forward voltage. Use
a diode with an RMS current rating of 0.5A or greater,
and with a breakdown voltage >VIN. Schottky diodes
are preferred. For high-temperature applications,
Schottky diodes may be inadequate due to their high
leakage currents. In such cases, ultra-high-speed silicon rectifiers are recommended, although a Schottky
diode with a higher reverse voltage rating can often
provide acceptable performance.
______________________________________________________________________________________
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
MAX1836/MAX1837
Table 1. Component Suppliers
SUPPLIER
PHONE
FAX
WEBSITE
Coilcraft
847-639-6400
847-639-1469
Coiltronics
561-241-7876
561-241-9339
www.coiltronics.com
Sumida USA
847-956-0666
847-956-0702
www.sumida.com
Toko
847-297-0070
847-699-1194
www.tokoam.com
INDUCTORS
www.coilcraft.com
CAPACITORS
AVX
803-946-0690
803-626-3123
www.avxcorp.com
Kemet
408-986-0424
408-986-1442
www.kemet.com
Panasonic
847-468-5624
847-468-5815
www.panasonic.com
Sanyo
619-661-6835
619-661-1055
www.secc.co.jp
Taiyo Yuden
408-573-4150
408-573-4159
www.t-yuden.com
Central Semiconductor
516-435-1110
516-435-1824
www.centralsemi.com
International
310-322-3331
310-322-3332
www.irf.com
Nihon
847-843-7500
847-843-2798
www.niec.co.jp
On Semiconductor
602-303-5454
602-994-6430
www.onsemi.com
Zetex
516-543-7100
516-864-7630
www.zetex.com
DIODES
MAX1836/MAX1837 Stability
Commonly, instability is caused by excessive noise on
the feedback signal or ground due to poor layout or
improper component selection. When seen, instability
typically manifests itself as “motorboating,” which is
characterized by grouped switching pulses with large
gaps and excessive low-frequency output ripple during
no-load or light-load conditions.
PC Board Layout and Grounding
High switching frequencies and large peak currents
make PC board layout an important part of the design.
Poor layout may introduce switching noise into the
feedback path, resulting in jitter, instability, or degraded performance. High-power traces, bolded in the typical application circuits (Figures 1 and 2), should be as
short and wide as possible. Additionally, the current
loops formed by the power components (CIN, COUT,
L1, and D1) should be as tight as possible to avoid
radiated noise. Connect the ground pins of these
power components at a common node in a star-ground
configuration. Separate the noisy traces, such as the
LX node, from the feedback network with grounded
copper. Furthermore, keep the extra copper on the
board, and integrate it into a pseudoground plane.
When using external feedback, place the resistors as
close to the feedback pin as possible to minimize noise
coupling. The MAX1837 evaluation kit shows the recommended layout.
Applications Information
High-Voltage Step-Down Converter
The typical application circuits’ (Figures 1 and 2) components were selected for 9V battery applications.
However, the MAX1836/MAX1837 input voltage range
allows supply voltages up to 24V. Figure 6 shows a
modified application circuit for high-voltage applications. When using higher input voltages, verify that the
input capacitor’s voltage rating exceeds VIN(MAX) and
that the inductor value exceeds the minimum inductance recommended in the Inductor Selection section.
Inverter Configuration
Figure 7 shows the MAX1836/MAX1837 in a floating
ground configuration. By connecting what would normally be the output to the supply-voltage ground, the
IC’s ground pin is forced to regulate to -5V
(MAX183_EUT50) or -3.3V (MAX183_EUT33). Avoid
exceeding the maximum ratings of 24V between IN and
GND, and 5.5V between OUT and GND. Other negative
voltages may be generated by placing a resistive
divider across the output capacitor and connecting the
tap to FB in the same manner as the normal step-down
configuration.
______________________________________________________________________________________
11
MAX1836/MAX1837
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
INPUT
4.5V TO 24V
CIN
10µF
25V
L1
47µH
IN
OUTPUT
5V
LX
D1
SHDN
COUT
68µF
10V
INPUT
3.6V TO 18V
CIN
10µF
L1
47µH
IN
LX
OUT
SHDN
MAX1836
MAX1837
MAX1837
GND
GND
FB
CIN = TAIYO YUDEN TMK432BJ106KM
L1 = SUMIDA CDRH5D28-470
COUT = SANYO POSCAP 10TPC68M
D1 = NIHON EP05Q03L
COUT
100µF
D1
OUT
OUTPUT
-3.3V OR -5V
FB
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
Figure 7. MAX1836/MAX1837 Inverter Configuration
NOTE: HIGH-CURRENT PATHS SHOWN WITH BOLD LINES.
Chip Information
Figure 6. High-Voltage Application
TRANSISTOR COUNT: 731
PROCESS: BiCMOS
12
______________________________________________________________________________________
24V Internal Switch, 100% Duty Cycle,
Step-Down Converters
6LSOT.EPS
Maxim cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim product. No circuit patent licenses are
implied. Maxim reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time.
Maxim Integrated Products, 120 San Gabriel Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 408-737-7600 ____________________ 13
© 2002 Maxim Integrated Products
Printed USA
is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products.
MAX1836/MAX1837
Package Information
(The package drawing(s) in this data sheet may not reflect the most current specifications. For the latest package outline information,
go to www.maxim-ic.com/packages.)