Boost or flyback, one part does both
The MAX17498BATE+T is an offline switching regulator that handles boost or flyback topologies — you pick the topology by the transformer or inductor you hang on it, not by the silicon. That makes it a single BOM line for a range of isolated or non-isolated rails up to 36 V input. Switching at 500 kHz keeps the magnetics small — a flyback transformer for a 10 W auxiliary supply fits in a 10 mm EP7 core, which is good for cramped PSU layouts.
Package and footprint for hand-assembly or reflow
Housed in a 16-WFQFN with exposed pad (3x3 mm TQFN), the pad needs a thermal via array under the die to pull heat into the PCB ground plane — without it the junction temperature climbs 20-30°C above ambient under full load. The 0.5 mm pitch is hand-solderable with a fine tip and flux — a weekend project or prototype run is doable without a reflow oven, though the exposed pad benefits from a hot-air station.
Control and protection features
Includes enable (EN), power-good output, and soft-start — the soft-start ramps the duty cycle to prevent inrush current on startup, which matters when the output capacitor bank is large. Fault protection covers current limiting and over-voltage — the OVP monitors the output and shuts down the switch if the feedback loop opens, saving the load from a runaway rail.