Maxim Integrated MAX660CSA Voltage Converter

The MAX660CSA is a highly efficient, CMOS charge-pump voltage converter manufactured by Maxim Integrated. This versatile component is designed to deliver a higher voltage from a lower voltage input, making it an ideal solution for battery-powered devices where extending the battery life is crucial. The device is capable of converting a +1.5V to +5.5V input voltage into a corresponding -1.5V to -5.5V output voltage, essentially doubling the input voltage in a negative configuration.

Encased in a compact 8-pin SOIC package, the MAX660CSA is engineered to be both space-saving and power-efficient. It can deliver up to 100mA of output current, which is sufficient for a wide range of applications, from portable electronics to industrial systems. Its high-frequency operation at 10kHz to 100kHz allows for small external capacitors, reducing the overall footprint and component cost.

One of the key features of the MAX660CSA is its low quiescent current, which is typically 110µA. This characteristic ensures minimal power consumption when the device is in idle mode, contributing to the extended battery life of the end application. Furthermore, the charge pump operates in a voltage inverting mode, making it an excellent choice for generating a negative supply from a positive input voltage without the need for an inductor, thereby simplifying the design and reducing noise.

The MAX660CSA also includes an oscillator control pin that allows the user to adjust the switching frequency or to synchronize multiple devices. This flexibility is beneficial in noise-sensitive applications where specific frequency management is required. Additionally, the device features thermal shutdown and current limit protections, ensuring reliable operation under various conditions.

Overall, the Maxim Integrated MAX660CSA voltage converter is a robust and versatile component that offers designers a simple and cost-effective solution for creating a negative voltage rail. Its ease of use, combined with its efficiency and small size, makes it an excellent choice for a multitude of applications, including LCD bias supplies, op-amp power supplies, and isolated data acquisition systems.