The MAX1606 is a step-up DC-DC converter that contains a 0.5A internal power switch and a 0.5A output isolation switch in an 8-pin µMAX^® package. The IC operates from a 2.4V to 5.5V supply voltage but can boost battery voltages as low as 0.8V up to 28V. The MAX1606 uses a unique control scheme that provides high efficiency over a wide range of load conditions. An internal 0.5A MOSFET reduces external component count, and a high switching frequency (up to 500kHz) allows for tiny surface-mount components. The current limit can be set to 500mA, 250mA, or 125mA, allowing the user to reduce the output ripple and component size in low-current applications. Additional features include a low quiescent supply current and a true shutdown mode that saves power by disconnecting the output from the input. The MAX1606 is ideal for small LCD panels with low current requirements, but can also be used in other applications.

Key Features

• Adjustable Output Voltage Up to 28V
• 20mA at 20V from a Single Li+ Battery
• True Shutdown (Output Disconnected from Input)
• Output Short-Circuit Protection
• Up to 88% Efficiency
• Up to 500kHz Switching Frequency
• Selectable Inductor Current Limit (125mA, 250mA, or 500mA)
• 0.1µA Shutdown Current
• 8-Pin µMAX Package

This board is not available for purchase.

A single-output boost converter using the MAX1606 is demonstrated for a 1V to 3.3V input voltage range. The output is configured to be equal to 13.5V. The power supply delivers up to 6mA at 13.5V with up to 4% output voltage regulation at 1V.

Designed, Built, Tested

This document describes the hardware shown in Figure 1. It provides a detailed systematic technical guide to design in a boost converter using Maxim’s MAX1606 current-mode, step-up DC-DC converter. The maximum efficiency of MAX1606 is up to 88%, however, this document describes a design that can turn on at a low input voltage of 1V and deliver at least 6mA load current with reasonable regulation. The emphasis is on power delivery rather than on efficiency. The benefit of the MAX1606 lies in its simple design and lowest component count, with internal compensation and high efficiency at nominal input voltages. The power supply has been built and tested, details of which follow later in this document.

Design Resources