Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15026BEVKIT+

Overview

MAX15026BEVKIT+ from Analog Devices is an evaluation kit for the MAX15026B synchronous step-down DC-DC controller, designed to validate 4.5V–28V input, 0.6V–(0.85×VIN) adjustable output, 200kHz–2MHz switching frequency, adaptive synchronous rectification, and prebiased startup capability in high-current point-of-load designs up to 25A.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15026BEVKIT+ datasheet, MAX15026BEVKIT+ pinout, MAX15026BEVKIT+ application, or MAX15026BEVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid prototyping of buck converter topologies with lossless valley current sensing, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, soft-start/soft-stop sequencing, and AEC-Q100 qualified control IC operation across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX15026BEVKIT+ implements a voltage-mode PWM synchronous buck controller reference design using the MAX15026B IC in a 14-pin TDFN-EP (3mm × 3mm) package. It supports external MOSFET selection, adjustable switching frequency via RT resistor, and valley/sink current limiting using low-side R_DS(ON) sensing - eliminating discrete current-sense resistors.

Key functional blocks include a 5.25V internal VCC regulator, adaptive dead-time gate drivers (DH/DL), BST boost capacitor circuitry, PGOOD open-drain monitoring, EN with ±5% threshold accuracy, and digital soft-start/soft-stop logic enabling monotonic startup into prebiased rails and controlled power-down ramping.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15026BEVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD TV secondary supplies, set-top box power modules, DSP point-of-load regulators, and industrial embedded power sequencing requiring stable component supply and fast design validation cycles.

Supply support for MAX15026BEVKIT+ 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 is a global semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for precision signal chain and power conversion applications.

The MAX15026 product line delivers cost-optimized, thermally enhanced synchronous buck controllers targeting space-constrained, high-efficiency DC-DC conversion in consumer, industrial, and automotive systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX15026BEVKIT+?

The MAX15026BEVKIT+ is an evaluation kit designed to demonstrate and validate the MAX15026B synchronous step-down DC-DC controller. It provides a fully assembled, tested reference design enabling engineers to evaluate key features including 4.5V–28V input operation, 0.6V–(0.85×VIN) adjustable output, adaptive synchronous rectification, prebiased startup, and hiccup-mode short-circuit protection - all implemented using the MAX15026B IC.

Does the MAX15026BEVKIT+ include the MAX15026B IC?

Yes, the MAX15026BEVKIT+ includes the MAX15026B IC mounted on the board. The kit is built around the MAX15026B in its 14-pin TDFN-EP package and ships with supporting passive components, layout-optimized PCB, test points, and documentation to accelerate evaluation of the controller's performance under real-world conditions.

Can the MAX15026BEVKIT+ be used to evaluate automotive-grade operation?

Yes - the MAX15026BEVKIT+ evaluates the AEC-Q100 qualified MAX15026B variant, which is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C. While the kit itself is not certified for automotive end-equipment, it validates the IC's specified automotive temperature range, enable/PGOOD sequencing behavior, and robust protection features required in automotive subsystems such as infotainment power supplies.

What external components must be selected when using the MAX15026BEVKIT+?

When configuring the MAX15026BEVKIT+, users select external high-side and low-side MOSFETs, output inductor, input/output capacitors, FB divider resistors, RT timing resistor (for frequency setting), and LIM current-limit resistor. The kit's documentation provides design equations and layout guidance for each, ensuring compatibility with the MAX15026B's gate drive strength, current-sensing architecture, and thermal constraints.

How does the MAX15026BEVKIT+ support power sequencing in multi-rail systems?

The MAX15026BEVKIT+ supports power sequencing through the MAX15026B's precision enable input (EN) with ±5% threshold accuracy and open-drain power-good output (PGOOD). Engineers can cascade EN inputs across multiple rails and use PGOOD to trigger downstream enables - validating coordinated startup/shutdown sequences essential in FPGA, DSP, and processor power domains.