Maxim's Overvoltage Protectors Use Reverse Bias Blocking to Protect a Portable Device with Multiple Power Sources

SUNNYVALE, Calif., March 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Maxim Integrated Products Inc. (NASDAQ: MXIM) today announced the MAX14606/MAX14607, advanced overvoltage protectors which handle up to 3A of continuous current for today's high-power electronics. Reverse bias blocking protects a portable device from damage caused by multiple power sources supplied simultaneously. The MAX14606/MAX14607 are optimized to protect the internal components of portable electronics such as tablets, smartphones, and portable media players.

The MAX14606/MAX14607 feature reverse bias blocking capability so that two power sources can be safely interfaced simultaneously without damage to either one. In this design two integrated back-to-back FETs prevent the voltage applied at the intended output from feeding back into the input. Without this reverse bias blocking, users are forced to use multiple discrete, space-consuming external components to protect the end equipment.

To support today's demanding high-power portable devices, the MAX14606/MAX14607 also use low, 54 milliohms (typical) on-resistance (RON), integrated FETs that allow up to 3A of continuous current and protect low-voltage systems against voltage faults up to +36V. With all of these features in a small 1.3mm x 1.3mm WLP package, the MAX14606/MAX14607 make electronics more robust and save the space required by discrete protection solutions.

"The electronics industry must constantly adapt to the changing needs and lifestyles of consumers, so system designers need better building blocks," said Sidney Chan, Business Manager for Maxim. "Now the integrated, back-to-back FETs and the low RON in the MAX14606/MAX14607 will let users conveniently charge a portable electronic through USB and/or a wireless charging dock, for example, without worrying about damaging their device." 

The MAX14606/MAX14607 are part of a broader family of high-voltage, high-current overvoltage protectors. For similar parts in this family, please go to Maxim's Overvoltage Protection Controllers.

For a hi-res image, please visit http://www.maxim-ic.com/company/newsroom/pr_products/show.mvp/npk/1657.

About Maxim Integrated Products
Maxim makes highly integrated analog and mixed-signal semiconductors. Maxim reported revenue of approximately $2.5 billion for fiscal 2011. For more information, go to www.maxim-ic.com.

SOURCE Maxim Integrated Products Inc.