The MAX16961 is a high-efficiency, synchronous step-down converter that operates with a 2.7V to 5.5V input voltage range and provides a 0.8V to 3.6V output voltage range. The wide input/output voltage range and the ability to provide up to 3A to load current make this device ideal for on-board point-of-load and post-regulation applications. The device achieves -3.7%/+2.6% output error over load, line, and temperature ranges.The device features a 2.2MHz fixed-frequency PWM mode for better noise immunity and load transient response, and a pulse-frequency modulation mode (skip) for increased efficiency during light-load operation. The 2.2MHz frequency operation allows for the use of all-ceramic capacitors and minimizes external components. The optional spread-spectrum frequency modulation minimizes radiated electromagnetic emissions.Integrated low RDSONswitches improve efficiency at heavy loads and make the layout a much simpler task with respect to discrete solutions.The device can be offered with factory-preset output voltages, or with an adjustable output voltage (contact factory for preset output-voltage options). Factory-preset output-voltage versions allow customers to achieve -3.7%/+2.6% output-voltage accuracy without using external resistors, while the adjustable output-voltage version provides the flexibility to set the output voltage to any desired value between 0.8V to 3.6V using an external resistive divider.Additional features include 8ms soft-start, 16ms power-good output delay, overcurrent, and overtemperature protections.The MAX16961 is available in thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP and 16-pin (4mm x 4mm) TQFN-EP packages, and is specified for operation over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.ApplicationsAutomotive InfotainmentIndustrial/MilitaryPoint-of-Load Applications