MAX1968:Power Drivers for Peltier TEC Modules

Smallest, EMI Optimized TEC Controller, Internal FETs, 0.01°C Temperature Control

The MAX1968/MAX1969 are highly integrated and cost-effective, high-efficiency, switch-mode drivers for Peltier thermoelectric cooler (TEC) modules. Both devices utilize direct current control to eliminate current surges in the TEC. On-chip FETs minimize external components while providing high efficiency. A 500kHz/1MHz switching frequency and a unique ripple cancellation scheme reduce component size and noise. The MAX1968 operates from a single supply and provides bipolar ±3A output by biasing the TEC between the outputs of two synchronous buck regulators. Bipolar operation allows for temperature control without "dead zones" or other nonlinearities at low load currents. This arrangement ensures that the control system does not hunt when the set point is very close to the natural operating point, requiring a small amount of heating or cooling. An analog control signal precisely sets the TEC current. The MAX1969 provides unipolar output up to 6A. Reliability is optimized with settable limits for both TEC voltage and current, with independently set limits for heating and cooling current. An analog output also monitors TEC current. The MAX1968/MAX1969 are available in a low-profile 28-pin TSSOP-EP package and is specified over the -40°C to +85°C temperature range. The thermally-enhanced TSSOP-EP package with exposed metal pad minimizes operating junction temperature. An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.

Key Features
  • High Accuracy and Adjustability Improves System Performance by Optimizing TEC Operation
    • Direct Current Control Prevents TEC Current Surges
    • Ripple Cancellation for Low Noise
    • No Dead-Zone or Hunting at Low-Output Current
    • 1% Accurate Voltage Reference
    • Adjustable TEC Voltage Limit
    • Separately Adjustable Heating and Cooling Current Limits
    • ITEC Output Provides Proportional Voltage to TEC Current for Monitoring
  • High-Efficiency Switch-Mode Design
    • On-Chip Power MOSFETs Improve Efficiency While Reducing External Components
    • 500kHz/1MHz Switching Frequency
  • Choose from ±3A Output Current (MAX1968) or 6A Output Current (MAX1969)
  • Thermally Enhanced TSSOP-EP Package Minimizes Operating Junction Temperature
MAX1968, MAX1969: Typical Operating Circuit
MAX1968, MAX1969: Typical Operating Circuit
Applications/Uses
  • Automated Test Equipment (ATE)
  • Biotech Lab Equipment
  • EDFA Optical Amplifiers
  • Fiber Optic Network Equipment
  • Fiber-Optic Laser Modules
  • Telecom Fiber Interfaces
  • WDM, DWDM Laser Diode Temperature Control
DataSheet
titleDownload file
MAX1968-MAX1969 Data SheetMAX1968-MAX1969.pdf
Parametrics
Part NumberPrimary TopologyMonitor/Control FeaturesDC-DC/Power FeaturesVIN
(V)
VIN
(V)
VOUT
(V)
VOUT
(V)
Max. IOUT
(A)
Max. IOUT
(A)
Oper. Freq.
(kHz)
Inverting OutputsPackage/PinsBudgetary
Price
minmaxminmaxSee Notes
MAX1968H-BridgeOutput OVP
Shutdown
Volt. or PWM Controlled Output
Adj. Frequency
Current Limit
Fixed Freq./PWM
Internal Switch
Soft Start
Sync. Rectifier
TEC Driver
35.5-4.34.33310001TSSOP-EP/28$10.69 @1k
MAX196966TSSOP-EP/28$18.47 @1k
Design kits & evaluation modules
Quality and Environmental Data
Ordering Information
Part NumberStatusRecommended ReplacementPackageTempRoHS
MAX1968EUINo Longer AvailableMAX1968EUI+TSSOP-EP,;28 pin;63.7 mm²-40°C to +85°CNo
MAX1968EUI+ActiveTSSOP-EP,;28 pin;63.7 mm²-40°C to +85°CLead Free
MAX1968EUI+TActiveTSSOP-EP,;28 pin;63.7 mm²-40°C to +85°CLead Free
MAX1968EUI-TNo Longer AvailableMAX1968EUI+TTSSOP;28 pin-40°C to +85°CSee data sheet
MAX1968-MAX1969.pdf MAX1969
HFAN-08.2.0: How to Control and Compensate a Thermoelectric Cooler (TEC) MAX4477
HFTA-09.0: T3/E3/STS-1 Fiber Optic Extension MAX3645
MAX1968.pdf MAX1968