San Jose, California, September 23, 2013 — With Maxim Integrated Products' (NASDAQ: MXIM) MAX17503 synchronous DC-DC step-down converter, system designers can now achieve a wider industrial voltage specification range and even greater efficiency. The MAX17503 achieves 50 percent higher power efficiency compared to other industrial high-voltage DC-DC converters by integrating two MOSFET switches and eliminating the need for external Schottky diodes. The MAX17503 operates from 4.5V to 60V and supplies a maximum output current of 2.5A. The MAX17503 can save up to 50 percent of board space and reduce component count by up to 75 percent.

Industrial equipment is becoming increasingly compact as heatsinks and fans are removed. System designers also face the challenge of ensuring sufficient design margin against input voltage transients to meet fail-safe standards. The MAX17503 operates with the widest input voltage range, significantly reduces heat generation, and improves reliability. Designers dealing with large load variations can improve efficiency even at low currents by utilizing PFM (pulse-frequency modulation). The MAX17503, designed for use in industrial control and automation applications, is ideally suited for use in PLC (programmable logic controller), PVT (process variable transmitter), CNC (computerized numerical control), and distributed I/O modules in industrial processor control, motor control, power grid, and building automation applications.

Key Product Features

· High Efficiency: Achieves 50 percent higher efficiency compared to widely used asynchronous solutions

· Robust Design: The 60V operating range allows increased design margin for harsh industrial systems, eliminating the need for external protection circuits.

· Design Convenience: Internal output voltage regulation and switching frequency range of 200kHz to 2.2MHz

· Cost Reduction and Compact Size: External components can be reduced by up to 75 percent, lowering costs. By integrating MOSFETs and reducing external component count, solution size can be reduced by up to 50 percent.

Industry Assessment

· Anil Telikepalli, Business Unit Director at Maxim Integrated, states: "A switching regulator that realizes synchronous rectification with high voltage and current in a single chip requires advanced process technology and innovative IC design. As the first company in the industry to provide synchronous rectification in high-voltage applications, Maxim enables industrial customers to stay ahead of the competition by achieving incomparably superior power efficiency and size advantages."

Availability and Pricing

· Available in 20-pin 4mm x 4mm TQFN package

· Operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C