Device Description

General

The MAX1546 is a dual-phase, Quick-PWM™, step-down controllers for Intel IMVP™ CPU core supplies. Dual-phase operation reduces input ripple current requirements and output voltage ripple while easing component selection and layout difficulties. The Quick-PWM control scheme provides instantaneous response to fast load-current steps. The MAX1546 includes active voltage positioning with adjustable gain and offset, reducing power dissipation and bulk output capacitance requirements.

The MAX1546 is intended for twodifferent notebook CPU core applications: stepping down the battery directly or stepping down the 5V system supply to create the core voltage. The singlestage conversion method allows this device to directly step down high-voltage batteries for the highest possible efficiency. Alternatively, two-stage conversion (stepping down the 5V system supply instead of the battery) at a higher switching frequency provides the minimum possible physical size.

The MAX1546 complies with the IMVP-V specifications. The switching regulator features soft-start and power-up sequencing. The MAX1546 also features independent four-level logic inputs for setting the suspend voltage (S0–S1). The MAX1546 includes output undervoltage protection, thermal protection, and voltage regulator power-OK (VROK) output. When any of these protection features detect a fault, the controller shuts down. Additionally, the MAX1546 includes overvoltage protection

The MAX1546 is available in low profile, 40-pin 6mm x 6mm thin QFN packages.