Quick-PWM Slave Controllers for Multiphase, Step-Down Supplies

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The MAX1887/MAX1897 step-down slave controllers are intended for low-voltage, high-current, multiphase DC-to-DC applications. The MAX1887/MAX1897 slave controllers can be combined with any of Maxim's Quick-PWM™ step-down controllers to form a multiphase DC-to-DC converter. Existing Quick-PWM controllers, such as the MAX1718, function as the master controller, providing accurate output voltage regulation, fast transient response, and fault protection features. Synchronized to the master's low-side gate driver, the MAX1887/MAX1897 include the Quick-PWM constant on-time controller, gate drivers for a synchronous rectifier, active current balancing, and precision current-limit circuitry.

The MAX1887/MAX1897 provide the same high efficiency, ultra-low duty factor capability, and excellent transient response as other Quick-PWM controllers. The MAX1887/MAX1897 differentially sense the inductor currents of both the master and the slave across current-sense resistors. These differential inputs and the adjustable current-limit threshold derived from an external reference allow the slave controller to accurately balance the inductor currents and provide precise current-limit protection. The MAX1887/MAX1897's dual-purpose current-limit input also allows the slave controller to automatically enter a low-power standby mode when the master controller shuts down.

The MAX1887 triggers on the rising edge of the master's low-side gate driver, which staggers the on-times of both master and slave, providing out-of-phase operation that can reduce the input ripple current and consequently the number of input capacitors. The MAX1897 features a selectable trigger polarity, allowing out-of-phase or simultaneous in-phase operation.

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