Press Release

First 2.5MHz DC-DC Converters for Dynamic CDMA/WCDMA PA Integrate Lowest 65 milliohm Bypass FET for Smallest PCB Area and Longest Battery Life

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SUNNYVALE, CA—November 9, 2006—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX8581/MAX8582 high-efficiency, step-down DC-DC converters that can continuously deliver 600mA. Available in a tiny 9mm² package, these devices integrate a 65mΩ bypass FET. During high-power transmission, this bypass FET connects the power amplifier (PA) directly to the battery with a dropout of 33mV at 500mA, thus minimizing power loss at the inductor and allowing minimal battery voltage for device usage. To maximize PA efficiency, the output can be dynamically varied from 0.4V to V_IN, depending on the distance to the base station and the desired transmission mode (voice or data). This flexibility improves efficiency by 47% at +10dBm. Consequently, handset designers can almost double talk-time and/or reduce battery size.

The MAX8581/MAX8582 are capable of switching at 2.5MHz, while the MAX8582 also runs at 1.5MHz for lower switching losses. Both devices are optimized for use with a tiny, low-cost inductor and small ceramic capacitors. The MAX8581/MAX8582 are packaged in a 3mm x 3mm x 0.8mm, 10-pin TDFN and are specified over the extended temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Prices start at $1.48 (2500-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.