Maxim Introduces Flexible Buck Converter for USB Type-C Devices, Extending Battery Life

MAX77756 Integrated Power MUX for Higher Current Load, Dual Input, and I2C Support

Maxim introduced the MAX77756 24V, 500mA, low quiescent current (Iq) buck converter to provide developers of multi-cell, USB Type-C products the flexibility to meet their higher current, dual input, and I2C support needs.

USB Type-C products must generate a 3.3V normally-on power supply to detect USB insertion events. Using the MAX77756 step-down converter, a normally open output voltage (1.8V/3.3V/5.0V) can be generated from the Type-C supply (PD) voltage (5V to 20V) for digital power to the port controller. With a low quiescent current of 20μA, the MAX77756 significantly reduces power consumption in idle mode, which in turn extends battery life. To simplify system design, the MAX77756 uses an OR circuit consisting of a dual input ideal diode to allow the chip to be powered by an external USB power supply (after the battery is fully discharged).

For multi-cell battery-powered ultrabooks, laptops, drones, and smart homes, the flexible MAX77756 power supply design extends to Type-C devices. The MAX77756 integrates unique advantages such as wide input voltage range, low quiescent current, high current load drive, dual input architecture, and I2C interface to increase design flexibility and programming capabilities. If the customer does not use the I2C bus, the default power configuration is also provided. The MAX77756 features short-circuit protection and thermal protection. The 8ms internal soft-start minimizes inrush currents. It uses a proven current-mode control structure with input voltage tolerances of up to 26V, providing highly reliable system support.

Relevant MAX77 series products

Author：Brittany Antonia （The author of article owns the copyright.）