Maxim Integrated MAX1679EUA+ Step-Up DC-DC Converter

The MAX1679EUA+ from Maxim Integrated is a high-efficiency, compact, step-up DC-DC converter designed to deliver a fixed or adjustable output voltage from a lower voltage input. This versatile component is ideal for battery-powered applications where extending battery life is crucial, and space is at a premium. The MAX1679EUA+ comes in a miniature 8-pin µMAX package, making it a space-saving solution for portable electronics such as PDAs, mobile phones, and other handheld devices.

One of the standout features of the MAX1679EUA+ is its high efficiency, which can reach up to 96%. This is achieved through its use of a synchronous rectifier and a pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) control scheme, which minimizes quiescent current and optimizes efficiency at light loads. The device operates from an input voltage range of 0.7V to 5.5V, making it compatible with a wide array of single-cell and multi-cell battery configurations, as well as other low-voltage power sources.

The MAX1679EUA+ can provide a fixed output voltage of 3.3V or an adjustable output voltage from 2.0V to 5.5V, which can be set with two external resistors. This flexibility allows designers to use the same component in multiple applications, adjusting the output voltage to meet specific requirements. The device is capable of delivering up to 350mA of load current with a typical input voltage, ensuring reliable performance for a range of portable devices.

Safety and protection features are built into the MAX1679EUA+, including over-temperature protection and a low-battery detector that alerts the system when the input voltage falls below a user-defined threshold. This helps prevent deep discharge of the battery, thereby prolonging its life.

For design and prototyping convenience, the MAX1679EUA+ is fully specified over the extended temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, ensuring reliable operation in a variety of environmental conditions. Whether you're designing for consumer electronics, medical devices, or any other portable application, the MAX1679EUA+ offers a robust and efficient solution for your voltage step-up needs.