Automotive boost controller shrinks class-D audio amplifier space

Analog Devices has launched a highly efficient multi-phase synchronous boost controller that regulates high-power Class-D amplifiers in automotive infotainment systems. The MAX25203 provides programmable gate drive voltage and current limit blanking time, and accurate current balancing. It performs at a high switching frequency to decrease the BOM and shrink PCB space by 36%. It joins the company’s automotive boost controllers family, including the MAX25201 and MAX25202 single/dual boost controllers, designed for lower power applications.

The controller starts with a battery input voltage from 4.5V to 42V and operates down to 1.8V after start-up. It maintains an absolute maximum output voltage of up to 70V and provides a low shutdown supply current of 5µA. Useful to generate backlight and Class-D audio amplifier voltages, the device provides I²C bus diagnostics, incorporating die temperature, phase current monitoring and optional true shutdown to improve system reliability. The output voltage is scalable through the PWM input or I²C interface, and a sync-out element supports further phases for higher power systems.