12V PWM Controller with Hot-Swap

The MAX5950 is a 12V pulse-width modulated (PWM), step-down, DC-DC controller with integrated hot-swap controller. The device operates over the 8V to 16V inputvoltage range or 5V ±10% and provides an adjustable output from 0.8V to 5.5V. The device delivers up to 10A of load current with excellent load-and-line regulation. The MAX5950 is optimized for PCIe® ExpressModule™ power-management application.

The MAX5950 features a hot-swap controller that provides inrush current control during module insertion and removal, as well as short-circuit protection during normal operation. The MAX5950 features an internal charge pump that provides the gate drive for an external n-channel MOSFET. A DCENO logic output indicates the completion of the inrush cycle.

The MAX5950 PWM section utilizes a voltage-mode control scheme for good noise immunity and offers external compensation, allowing for maximum flexibility with a wide selection of inductor values and capacitor types. The device operates at a fixed switching frequency that is programmable from 100kHz to 1MHz and can be synchronized to an external clock signal through the SYNCIN input. The device includes undervoltage lockout (UVLO) and digital soft-start. Protection features include lossless valley-mode current limit, hiccup-mode output short-circuit protection, and thermal shutdown.

The MAX5950 is available in a space-saving 5mm x 5mm, 32-pin thin QFN package and is specified for operation over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range. Refer to the MAX5951 data sheet for a pin-compatible, general-purpose PWM controller.