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REFERENCE SCHEMATIC 5815

Palo Verde (MAXREFDES33#): Step-Down Converter

Feb 27, 2014

Abstract: The Palo Verde reference design (MAXREFDES33#) is a high-efficiency, high-voltage, synchronous step-down DC-

DC converter with integrated MOSFETs operating over a 4.5V to 60V input voltage range and delivering output current up to

300mA at 3.3V. Test results and hardware files provide complete documentation for designs. The board is also available for

purchase.

Introduction

The Palo Verde (MAXREFDES33#) subsystem

reference design (Figure 1) demonstrates the

application of the MAX15062A 60V, 300mA ultra-

small, high-efficiency, synchronous step-down

converter. The reference design operates over a wide

4.5V to 60V input voltage range, and provides up to

300mA at 3.3V output. The device features

undervoltage lockout, overcurrent protection, and

thermal shutdown. The MAX15062A switches at a

fixed frequency of 500kHz, and delivers a peak

efficiency of 86.77% with the supplied components

when the input is 24V. This general-purpose power

solution can be used in many different types of power applications, such as 4–20mA current loops, HVAC and building

control, high-voltage LDO replacement, general-purpose point-of-load, etc. In this reference design, the MAX15062 performs

in 24V input applications, such as industrial sensors, process control, etc.

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