Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1236EVKIT

Overview

The MAX1236EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit designed to comprehensively assess the MAX1236 - a 12-bit, four-channel (two differential) analog-to-digital converter with 2-wire serial interface. It supports S-Mode, F-Mode, and HS-Mode timing, includes fully assembled hardware, Windows 95/98 GUI software, and interfaces via a PC parallel port using an open-collector inverter (U2, SN74HC05).

For engineers reviewing the MAX1236EVKIT datasheet, MAX1236EVKIT pinout, MAX1236EVKIT application, or MAX1236EVKIT equivalent, this kit enables rapid functional validation of the MAX1236's 12-bit conversion accuracy, 2-wire protocol behavior, reference voltage configuration, and channel scanning modes in lab and design-integration environments.

Technical Context

The MAX1236EVKIT implements a proven PCB layout for noise-sensitive ADC evaluation, featuring decoupling capacitors (C1–C4: 0.22µF X7R; C6/C9: 0.1µF; C7/C8: 10µF X5R), ESD protection (D1–D4: 5.1V Zener diodes), and ferrite bead FB1 for digital supply filtering. It uses U1 (MAX1236EUA in 8-pin µMAX) as the DUT and U2 (SN74HC05) to level-shift and invert parallel-port signals into compliant 2-wire SDA/SCL waveforms.

Hardware supports three 2-wire speeds but software only enables Standard Mode (S-Mode); Fast and High-Speed Modes require external 2-wire bus connection to SDA/SCL/GND pads and resistor population at R5/R7. Reference voltage defaults to +4.096V internal, configurable via SEL bits in the Setup Byte and external VREF injection.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX1236EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ADC evaluation, mixed-signal prototyping, and embedded sensor interface development requiring stable component supply and full documentation support.

Supply support for MAX1236EVKIT includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-reliability ICs for industrial, medical, and communications applications.

The MAX1236EVKIT belongs to Maxim's evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate validation of their low-power, multi-channel ADCs in real-world signal-chain configurations.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX1236EVKIT?

The MAX1236EVKIT is a dedicated evaluation platform for the MAX1236 ADC. It enables functional verification of the device's 12-bit conversion performance, 2-wire serial communication (S-Mode), channel selection, reference voltage configuration, and differential/single-ended input operation using a Windows 95/98 PC and parallel port. The MAX1236EVKIT includes pre-assembled hardware, driver software, and documentation to streamline lab testing.

Does the MAX1236EVKIT support all three 2-wire interface speeds listed in the MAX1236 datasheet?

The MAX1236EVKIT hardware supports Standard Mode (S-Mode), Fast Mode (F-Mode), and High-Speed Mode (HS-Mode) electrically via its SDA and SCL pads. However, the included Windows 95/98 software only implements S-Mode. To use F-Mode or HS-Mode, users must disconnect the parallel port, install 3kΩ resistors at R5 and R7, connect an external 2-wire controller to the SDA/SCL/GND pads, and ensure timing compliance per the MAX1236 datasheet - the MAX1236EVKIT itself does not enable those modes in software.

Can the MAX1236EVKIT operate without a PC parallel port?

No - the MAX1236EVKIT relies on the PC parallel port for host communication and power delivery in its default configuration. The included software communicates exclusively through the DB-25 connector (J1) and uses the parallel port's data/control lines to emulate a 2-wire master. While the board provides SDA/SCL/GND test points for external 2-wire controllers, standalone or USB-based operation is not supported by the MAX1236EVKIT design or firmware.

What reference voltage does the MAX1236EVKIT use by default, and how is it changed?

The MAX1236EVKIT defaults to the MAX1236's internal 4.096V reference. To change it, users must set SEL2 = 0 and SEL1 = 1 in the Setup Byte, apply the new reference voltage to the VREF pad, enter the numeric value (e.g., "2.5") in the software's Vref field, and click "Set Vref". This reconfigures the MAX1236EVKIT's software scaling - the MAX1236EVKIT itself does not regulate or generate the reference; it passes through the externally applied voltage.

Is the MAX1236EVKIT RoHS-compliant and what is its operating temperature range?

The MAX1236EVKIT is specified for operation from 0°C to +70°C, matching the commercial-grade temperature range of the MAX1236EUA (8-pin µMAX) installed on the board. While the original 2002 documentation does not explicitly state RoHS status, Maxim's post-2006 product transitions confirm RoHS compliance for legacy evaluation kits unless otherwise marked; current MAX1236EVKIT units supplied by authorized distributors meet RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements.