The MAX1703 is a high-efficiency, low-noise, step-up DC-DC converter intended for use in battery-powered wireless applications. It uses a synchronous-rectified pulse-width-modulation (PWM) boost topology to generate a 2.5V to 5.5V output from battery inputs, such as one to three NiCd/NiMH cells or one Li-Ion cell. The device includes a 2A, 75mΩ, N-channel MOSFET switch and a 140m?, P-channel synchronous rectifier.

With its internal synchronous rectifier, the MAX1703 delivers up to 5% better efficiency than similar nonsynchronous converters. It also features a pulse-frequency-modulation (PFM) low-power mode to improve efficiency at light loads, and a 1μA shutdown mode.

The MAX1703 comes in a 16-pin narrow SO package and includes an uncommitted comparator that generates a power-good or low-battery-warning output. It also contains a linear gain block that can be used to build a linear regulator.

For lower-power outputs and a smaller package, refer to the MAX1700/MAX1701. For dual outputs (step-up plus linear regulator), refer to the MAX1705/MAX1706. For an on-board analog-to-digital converter, refer to the MAX848/MAX849.

The MAX1703 evaluation kit is available to speed designs.