Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX13256EVKIT#

Overview

MAX13256EVKIT# from Analog Devices is an evaluation kit for the MAX13256 36V H-bridge transformer driver IC, designed to accelerate development of isolated DC/DC power supplies up to 10W. It supports 8V–36V input, delivers up to 300mA primary-side drive current, enables adjustable overcurrent limiting via RLIM resistor, features internal/external clock synchronization, and guarantees fixed 50% duty cycle to prevent transformer core saturation - used in industrial PLCs, fieldbus isolators, and medical equipment power stages.

For engineers reviewing the MAX13256EVKIT# datasheet, MAX13256EVKIT# pinout, MAX13256EVKIT# application, or MAX13256EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides validated reference design, thermal performance data, transformer selection guidance, snubber implementation examples, and fault-handling behavior verification - critical for automotive-grade (-40°C to +125°C) isolated supply qualification.

Technical Context

The MAX13256EVKIT# implements the MAX13256 IC in a fully assembled, tested configuration with onboard 1µF VDD decoupling, 4.6kΩ RLIM resistor (setting ~650mA current limit), and dual ST1/ST2 transformer drive outputs. It validates break-before-make switching, 30ns crossover dead time, and watchdog timeout recovery (20–55µs) under external clock stall conditions.

Kit operation confirms internal oscillator mode at 425kHz (typ), external clock synchronization up to 2MHz input (yielding 1MHz output switching), and FAULT open-drain assertion during overtemperature (>160°C) or overcurrent events with 1.2ms blanking and 38.4ms autoretry timing - all measured per JEDEC JESD51-7 thermal test board conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX13256EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC isolation, RS-485/RS-232 interface power, medical sensor supply, and motor control auxiliary power applications requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping validation.

Supply support for MAX13256EVKIT# 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The MAX13256EVKIT# belongs to Analog Devices' isolated power solutions portfolio, engineered specifically to simplify robust, compact, and thermally efficient transformer-driven isolated DC/DC conversion for harsh industrial and automotive environments.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MAX13256EVKIT#?

The MAX13256EVKIT# is an evaluation kit for the MAX13256 H-bridge transformer driver IC. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform to validate isolated power supply designs up to 10W, verify thermal performance under load, confirm fault response timing (overcurrent/overtemperature), and demonstrate transformer selection, snubber implementation, and external clock synchronization - all using the exact MAX13256 device in its 10-pin TDFN package.

Does the MAX13256EVKIT# include the MAX13256 IC?

Yes, the MAX13256EVKIT# includes one mounted MAX13256 IC in a 10-pin TDFN-EP package (3mm × 3mm). The kit is not a bare PCB - it ships with the MAX13256 pre-soldered, along with supporting components including VDD bypass capacitor, RLIM resistor, and test points for ST1/ST2, CLK, EN, ITH, and FAULT signals.

Can the MAX13256EVKIT# be used to evaluate different transformer configurations?

Yes, the MAX13256EVKIT# is designed for flexible transformer evaluation. Its ST1 and ST2 outputs are brought out to screw terminals and test points, enabling direct connection to various transformer types (e.g., TGMR-502V6LF 4:1, custom 1.5:1, or ±15V center-tapped). Application circuits in the MAX13256 datasheet - including push-pull, voltage-doubler, and full-wave rectification topologies - are directly implementable using this kit.

How does the MAX13256EVKIT# demonstrate fault protection behavior?

The MAX13256EVKIT# demonstrates real-time fault protection through its FAULT open-drain output, which asserts low during overtemperature (>160°C junction) or overcurrent events. With the default 4.6kΩ RLIM resistor, it triggers at ~650mA, blanks for 1.2ms, then retries after 38.4ms - behavior observable on oscilloscope via FAULT pin. Thermal shutdown recovery is verified by monitoring junction temperature decay below +150°C before re-enabling.

Is external clock synchronization supported on the MAX13256EVKIT#?

Yes, the MAX13256EVKIT# supports external clock synchronization via the CLK input pin. Applying a 200kHz–2MHz square wave to CLK automatically disables the internal oscillator and drives the H-bridge at half the input frequency (e.g., 1MHz CLK → 500kHz ST1/ST2 switching), enabling precise EMI control and phase alignment across multiple MAX13256EVKIT# units - confirmed in the kit's validated timing diagrams and functional testing.