The MAX25203 multi-phase synchronous boost controller regulates high power Class-D amplifiers in vehicle infotainment systems. It has both programmable gate drive voltage and current limit blanking time, current balancing and operates at a high switching frequency. The result is reduced bill of materials (BoM) cost and a reduction in PCB space by 36%.

The controller starts with a battery input voltage from 4.5 to 42V and operates down to 1.8V after start-up. It sustains an absolute maximum output voltage of up to 70V and features a low shutdown supply current of 5µA. The controller can be used to generate backlight and Class-D audio amplifier voltages. It also offers I²C bus diagnostics including die temperature, phase current monitoring and optional true shutdown to improve system reliability. Output voltage is scalable via the PWM input or I²C interface and a sync-out feature supports additional phases for higher power systems.

The gate drive is factory-programmable from 5.5 to 10V which  increases power density by reducing MOSFET R_DS(on) loss for higher efficiency and lower cost, explains the company. In addition, programmable current limit blanking time supports short peak current events without power supply overdesign, while a ±5% current share accuracy from phase-to-phase reduces the inductor size.

The MAX25203 joins ADI’s family of automotive boost controllers that include the MAX25201 and MAX25202 single/dual boost controllers, both designed for lower power applications.