Maxim Integrated ICL7660EPA Voltage Converter

The ICL7660EPA is a highly efficient, monolithic, CMOS voltage converter manufactured by Maxim Integrated. This versatile integrated circuit (IC) is designed to easily convert a positive voltage in the range of 1.5V to 10V to the corresponding negative voltage of the same magnitude, making it an ideal solution for applications that require a dual power supply from a single voltage source.

At the heart of the ICL7660EPA is a charge pump that utilizes a switched capacitor network to achieve voltage conversion. This method of voltage conversion allows the device to be used with minimal external components, typically just two external capacitors, thereby simplifying design and conserving board space. The simplicity of the ICL7660EPA's design is matched by its ease of use, making it suitable for both novice and experienced circuit designers alike.

The converter features a no-load quiescent current of 1.5mA (typical) which drops to 10µA in the shutdown mode, ensuring power efficiency and making it suitable for battery-operated devices. The ICL7660EPA can deliver an output current of up to 20mA with a voltage conversion efficiency of 99.9% at no load, and 97% at full load, ensuring reliable performance for a wide range of applications.

Typical applications for the ICL7660EPA include battery-powered devices, portable instruments, and negative voltage generation for operational amplifiers, DA converters, and other analog circuits. Its 8-pin DIP (Dual In-line Package) or optional SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package allows it to be easily integrated into a variety of circuit layouts.

With its robust design, the ICL7660EPA operates over a wide temperature range, ensuring consistent performance even in challenging environmental conditions. Maxim Integrated's commitment to quality and reliability makes the ICL7660EPA a trusted choice for engineers and designers looking for a cost-effective, simple, and efficient solution for their voltage conversion needs.

For more information and detailed specifications, designers are encouraged to consult the ICL7660EPA datasheet available on Maxim Integrated's website.