Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15020EVKIT+

Overview

MAX15020EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX15020 2A PWM step-down regulator IC with integrated high-side MOSFET, supporting 7.5V–40V input, 0.8V–36V dynamically programmable output, 300kHz/500kHz selectable switching frequency, SYNC input for external clock synchronization, and operation across –40°C to +125°C - used to validate power supply designs in industrial and printer applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15020EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX15020EVKIT+ pinout, MAX15020EVKIT+ application, or MAX15020EVKIT+ equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, jumper-based functional setup (ON/OFF threshold, REFEXT control, frequency selection), efficiency validation data (up to 96%), protection feature demonstration (overcurrent, thermal shutdown), and component-level BOM traceability for rapid prototyping and design-in support.

Technical Context

The MAX15020EVKIT+ implements a complete buck converter topology using the MAX15020ATP+ IC in 20-pin TQFN (5mm × 5mm), featuring an internal high-RDS(ON) MOSFET, cycle-by-cycle current limiting, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and configurable soft-start. It supports dynamic output voltage programming via REFIN_EXT (0–3.6V) and UVLO threshold adjustment via external resistor divider (R1/R2).

Hardware-level configurability includes three jumpers: JU1 for ON/OFF mode (always-on, GND-disable, or 32V UVLO default), JU2 for reference source selection (REFOUT internal 1V or external REFIN_EXT), and JU3 for switching frequency (300kHz or 500kHz). The SYNC input accepts 300–500kHz square-wave clocks with 200ns minimum pulse width.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15020EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, printer mainboard DC-DC development, and embedded system voltage rail characterization requiring stable component supply and full hardware traceability.

Supply support for MAX15020EVKIT+ 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management solutions for industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX15020 product line delivers highly integrated, thermally robust step-down regulators targeting space-constrained industrial and printer applications where input voltage range, dynamic output control, and reliability under wide temperature extremes are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX15020EVKIT+?

The MAX15020EVKIT+ is a fully assembled evaluation platform designed to demonstrate and validate the electrical performance, protection features, and configuration flexibility of the MAX15020 2A PWM step-down regulator IC. It enables engineers to verify dynamic output voltage programming, frequency synchronization, UVLO behavior, thermal shutdown, and efficiency across its full 7.5V–40V input range before committing to custom PCB design.

How do I configure the MAX15020EVKIT+ for 500kHz operation?

To configure the MAX15020EVKIT+ for 500kHz switching frequency, install a shunt on pins 2–3 of jumper JU3 (per Table 3 in the user guide). This connects the FSEL pin to GND, selecting the higher-frequency mode. Confirm operation by measuring switching waveform at TP3 (LX node) using an oscilloscope; ensure input voltage remains within 7.5V–40V and load does not exceed 2A.

Can the MAX15020EVKIT+ be used to evaluate dynamic output voltage control?

Yes - the MAX15020EVKIT+ supports dynamic output voltage control via the REFIN_EXT pad. To enable it, place a shunt on pins 2–3 of jumper JU2 to disconnect REFOUT and route an external 0–3.6V control voltage to REFIN_EXT. Output voltage follows VOUT = VREFIN × (1 + R7/R8); with R7 = 10kΩ and R8 = 340Ω, nominal VOUT = 30V when VREFIN = 1V, but scales linearly with applied REFIN_EXT.

What is the default UVLO turn-on threshold of the MAX15020EVKIT+ and how is it set?

By default, the MAX15020EVKIT+ turns on at approximately 32V input, configured by resistors R1 (97.6kΩ) and R2 (4.02kΩ) forming a voltage divider that sets the ON/OFF pin threshold to 1.23V. Per the UVLO equation VUVLO = 1.23 × (1 + R1/R2), this yields ~32V. To change it, replace R1 and/or R2 with values satisfying the same equation while maintaining ≥100kΩ for R1 per datasheet guidance.

Does the MAX15020EVKIT+ include thermal protection verification capability?

Yes - the MAX15020EVKIT+ demonstrates the MAX15020's built-in thermal shutdown protection. Under sustained overload or elevated ambient temperature (>125°C junction), the IC disables switching and holds output low until die temperature falls below the hysteresis threshold (~15°C below trip point). This behavior can be observed by monitoring OUT voltage during controlled heating or high-load testing, confirming safe fault recovery without external circuitry.