High-performance analog ICs at electronica 2018

System designers are constantly looking for ways to improve system efficiency and performance, extend battery life, add new features and reduce form factor and bill-of-material (BOM) costs. Maxim’s newest analog ICs demonstrate the capabilities that pave the way for them to achieve these outcomes.

MAX41464 is a sub-1GHz frequency-shift keying (FSK) transmitter with the industry’s highest output power of +16dBm for long-range wireless sensors used in multiple applications including building automation and security systems. Operating from a single coin-cell battery, the transmitter extends battery life by consuming only 12mA operating current, 30% lower than that of the closest competitor. The transmitter is fully programmable using an I2C interface. 

A preset frequency mode option using a single 16MHz crystal eliminates programming and allows a single wire interface to an external microcontroller. In preset mode, the part also features auto-shutdown at less than 20nA shutdown current as well as data activity detector for auto-wake. Its frequency-hopping range from 300 to 960MHz supports worldwide use and the IC can be used in extreme temperature conditions with a -40 to +105°C ambient temperature range.

Maxim’s Continua family of backup power regulators is setting the standard for backup power in mission-critical applications. The high-performance regulators charge a backup power source, such as a supercapacitor or capacitor bank, in just seconds to deliver continuous power to critical system components when the main power source is turned off. The MAX38888 reversible buck/boost regulator, the first member of the Continua family, delivers a 95% peak efficiency. 

Operating over 2.5 to 5V input in buck mode, the MAX38888 charges an energy storage device at up to 500mA peak inductor current. On supply failure, MAX38888 operates in a boost mode, providing 2.5 to 5V output at up to 2.5A peak inductor current from an energy storage device, discharging all the way to 0.8V. In portable electronics where the main power source is a battery, the MAX38888 doubles battery life by lowering quiescent current up to 15 times lower than competitive solutions during idle mode. MAX38888 is available in a 38mm2 solution size, which is 33% smaller than the closest competitive solution.

MAX16141 is a 36V ORing FET controller with voltage and current circuit breaker for monitoring over-voltage, under-voltage, over-current, reverse-current and over-temperature conditions in automotive power applications, including infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Providing a full suite of system protection functions, the controller elicits a rapid response time of 0.3µs to reverse current events, increasing system hold-up time and functionality during automotive transient conditions. By enabling a true shutdown mode to prevent leakage current and by minimising the current draw to inactive circuitry, the controller decreases total system power and prioritises engine starting power over all other electrical systems.

“Product designers look for devices that support innovative features for their next-generation systems,” said Kevin Anderson, Senior Analyst at IHS Markit. “Improving system efficiency and reducing solution size are often critical, and Maxim’s newest analog ICs can help them develop competitive products.”

Vickram Vathulya, Vice President, Core Products Group, at Maxim Integrated, added: “Maxim is transforming high-performance general-purpose analog ICs to empower our customers’ relentless pursuit of innovation. From ultra-low power consumption to extended battery life and precision signal conversion to rugged connectivity, we push the limits of technology and ease of use to enable engineers to take their products to the next level.”

The MAX41464 is available at Maxim’s website for $0.68 (1000-up, FOB USA); also available with select authorised distributors.