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Maxim's High-Performance and Highly Versatile Triple Controller Offers Sequencing and Tracking Control for Networks, Servers, and Telecom Applications

SUNNYVALE, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- Mar 31, 2008 -- Maxim Integrated Products (PINKSHEETS: MXIM) introduces the MAX15003, a triple-output synchronous step-down controller that delivers at least 15A per output while maintaining excellent line and load regulation.

Synopsis for Investor:

--  This product is ideal for high-performance, small-sized power supplies
    in networks and servers, and telecom applications.
--  The MAX15003 eliminates the traditional need for multiple ICs to
    produce three rails. Integrating the three controllers into this single
    package allows for a small, compact solution in space-constrained
    applications.
--  The many adjustable parameters allow designers to optimize trade-offs
    in performance, size, and cost.
--  More flexible than other existing solutions, this device offers
    independent control for sequencing and tracking (ratiometric or
    coincident) the outputs during power-up and power-down.

With the MAX15003 controller, the current limit, output voltage (down to 0.6V), switching frequency (200kHz to 2.2MHz), and the external compensation network can all be adjusted. With this exceptional design flexibility, the designer can optimize performance, board space, and cost. The MAX15003 is optimized for high-performance, small size power-management solutions in networks and servers, and telecom applications.

High Integration and Flexible Operation Replace Discrete Solutions

The MAX15003 reduces the need for multiple ICs to produce three rails. Integrating the three controllers into this single package is far more practical and powerful than the competitive multiple-IC solution. The MAX15003 thus allows for a small, compact solution in space-constrained applications.

The MAX15003 can operate at a high-switching frequency (up to 2.2MHz) and 120 degrees out of phase. This reduces both the amount of input capacitance and the size of the inductor, and allows smaller passive components to be used.

The ability to track voltages during power-up/down (especially coincident tracking) is often difficult and done with an external discrete solution that adds board space and cost. Integrating sequencing and tracking control in the MAX15003 provides two important benefits. First, it eliminates the need for an external discrete solution or reference input signal, and it offers the option of ratiometric tracking, coincident tracking, or sequencing for both power-up and power-down.

Three power-good indicators and an integrated reset further reduce overall component count.

Flexible Controllers Simplify Design

Each of the MAX15003's PWM sections use a voltage-mode control scheme with external compensation to provide good noise immunity and maximum flexibility with a wide selection of inductor values and capacitor types. Each PWM section operates at the same, fixed switching frequency that is programmable from 200kHz to 2.2MHz. The switching frequency can easily be set with an external resistor or synchronized to an external clock signal by using the SYNC input. A logic-enable input for each controller turns each output on and off independently. Each controller also features a digital soft-start and soft-stop.

The MAX15003 is offered in a thermally enhanced 48-pin, 7mm x 7mm TQFN package, and is fully specified from -40 degrees Celsius to +125 degrees Celsius. Prices start at $3.52 (1000-up, FOB USA). For more information please visit: www.maxim-ic.com/Triple-Controller.

For a dual controller with tracking and sequencing, Maxim also offers the MAX15002.

Maxim Integrated Products, a two billion dollar company, designs and manufactures ICs for analog and mixed-signal applications. The company's broad portfolio of 28 product categories is among the industry's deepest, with over 5400 products.

Editors' Contact:
Drew Ehrlich
Public Relations
408-737-7600

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