Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15058EVKIT+

Overview

MAX15058EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX15058 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter, supporting input voltages from 2.7V to 5.5V and adjustable output voltages down to 0.6V. It features a 1MHz fixed-frequency PWM architecture, integrated 30mΩ/18mΩ MOSFETs, capacitor-programmable soft-start, and PGOOD signaling - enabling rapid validation of point-of-load power designs in portable, notebook, and distributed power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15058EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX15058EVKIT+ pinout, MAX15058EVKIT+ application, or MAX15058EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit provides fully assembled, tested hardware with documented layout, BOM, test points, and configuration jumpers - accelerating design-in of the MAX15058 IC for 3A load applications requiring high efficiency (>95% at 3.3V/3A), skip-mode operation, and prebias startup capability.

Technical Context

The MAX15058EVKIT+ implements the MAX15058 current-mode synchronous buck regulator in a production-ready 9-bump WLP (1.5mm × 1.5mm) footprint, replicating the IC's full functional behavior: 1MHz ±15% switching frequency, cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown at 150°C, and hiccup-mode fault recovery. It supports both forced PWM and selectable skip-mode operation via the SKIP pin.

Key design elements include a low-ESR ceramic input/output capacitor set, optimized 1.2µH inductor, and direct access to all critical nodes - IN, LX, FB, COMP, EN, SKIP, SS/REFIN, PGOOD, and GND - enabling real-time measurement of transient response, efficiency curves, soft-start timing, and prebiased startup behavior under load conditions up to 3A.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15058EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook power, server point-of-load regulation, IP phone power subsystems, and portable device battery-to-core voltage conversion requiring stable component supply and fast prototyping turnaround.

Supply support for MAX15058EVKIT+ 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, computing, and communications applications.

The MAX15058 product line delivers highly integrated, high-efficiency synchronous buck regulators targeting space-constrained, thermally sensitive applications such as mobile computing, networking infrastructure, and embedded systems requiring robust transient response and low quiescent current.

FAQ

What is the MAX15058EVKIT+ used for?

The MAX15058EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit designed to validate the performance and integration of the MAX15058 3A synchronous step-down regulator. It allows engineers to measure efficiency, transient response, soft-start behavior, PGOOD timing, and skip-mode operation under real-world conditions - without designing custom PCBs. The kit includes all necessary components, test points, and documentation to accelerate development of power supplies using the MAX15058 IC.

Does the MAX15058EVKIT+ support prebiased output startup?

Yes, the MAX15058EVKIT+ fully demonstrates the MAX15058's safe prebiased startup capability. When configured per the user guide, it starts into an externally biased output without discharging the output capacitor - verified via oscilloscope waveforms on VOUT, ILX, and PGOOD. This behavior is enabled by internal logic that holds both high-side and low-side switches off until SS/REFIN crosses FB, and is confirmed across load conditions from no-load to 3A.

Can the MAX15058EVKIT+ operate in skip mode?

Yes, the MAX15058EVKIT+ supports skip-mode operation via the onboard SKIP jumper. When enabled, the kit demonstrates reduced light-load current consumption and higher efficiency at output currents below ~300mA - validated using efficiency vs. load plots and waveform captures showing burst-mode switching on the LX node. Skip mode preserves regulation accuracy while minimizing switching losses.

What input and output capacitors are used on the MAX15058EVKIT+?

The MAX15058EVKIT+ uses a 22µF X5R 6.3V ceramic capacitor (0805) at the input and two parallel 22µF X5R 6.3V ceramics (0805) at the output - selected to ensure stability with the MAX15058's current-mode control loop and low-ESR requirements. These values enable full-ceramic operation, minimize voltage ripple, and support fast load transients up to 3A, as documented in the MAX15058EVKIT+ user guide.

Is the MAX15058EVKIT+ RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX15058EVKIT+ is RoHS-compliant and lead-free, consistent with the "+" suffix in its part number. All components, including the MAX15058EWL+ IC in its 9-bump WLP package, meet JEDEC J-STD-020 reflow profile requirements (peak 260°C) and are qualified for commercial temperature operation (-40°C to +85°C).