Analog Devices has introduced the MAX77837, a compact and efficient nanoPower buck-boost converter tailored for applications in the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearable devices. Operating within an input supply range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V, this converter is optimized for single-cell battery chemistries commonly found in these applications.
The MAX77837 allows for output voltages ranging from 1.8 V to 5.2 V, which can be set using resistors connected to hardware control pins. This flexibility enables the IC to operate in continuous conduction mode (CCM), skip mode, and low-power mode, ensuring optimal efficiency across a wide load current spectrum. Notably, the converter boasts an ultra-low quiescent current (IQ) of 430 nA (typical) and a shutdown current of 10 nA (typical), making it well-suited for battery-powered devices requiring extended standby durations.
One of the standout features of the MAX77837 is its two hardware control pins, SEL1 and SEL2. By utilizing resistors connected to these pins, users can select from various output voltage combinations, current limit configurations, and operational modes. This level of customization allows for the optimization of external component sizes, dynamic voltage scaling functions, and response mechanisms to fault conditions such as hard shorts.
In terms of packaging options, the MAX77837 is available in a 1.84 mm x 1.03 mm, 8-bump wafer-level package (WLP) with a 0.4 mm bump pitch, as well as a 2.5 mm x 2.0 mm, 8-lead flip chip QFN package (FC2QFN). These packaging choices cater to different application requirements and assembly preferences.
For those interested in exploring the capabilities of the MAX77837, Analog Devices offers the MAX77837EVKIT evaluation kit. This fully assembled and tested PCB serves as a practical demonstration of the nanoPower buck-boost converter's performance. The evaluation kit supports an input range of 1.8 V to 5.5 V and features a switch current limit of 1.05 A, providing a comprehensive platform for testing and validation purposes.
1.8 V to 5.5 V input voltage
Output voltages combination from 1.8 V to 5.2 V
Peak efficiency of 95% (5.5 VIN, 3.8 VOUT)
430 nA typical quiescent current
10 nA shutdown current
Protections
RSEL configurations
OUT1 and OUT2
1.05 A or 0.4 A switch current limit
DVS function on or off
Hiccup or latch-off mode
Protections
Input undervoltage lockout (UVLO)
Overcurrent protection (OCP)
Thermal shutdown
1.84 mm x 1.03 mm, 8-bump WLP
2.5 mm x 2.0 mm, 8-lead FC2QFN
LPWAN SoC companion power solution
IoT and wearable applications
Asset trackers
Smart meters
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