Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15102EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX15102EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to characterize the MAX15102 2A low-dropout linear regulator in its 15-bump wafer-level package (WLP). It delivers a preset 1.5V output at up to 2A load, operates from 1.7V–5.5V input, includes enable control and power-good signaling, and features a proven PCB layout optimized for thermal and EMI performance in point-of-load applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15102EVKIT# datasheet, MAX15102EVKIT# pinout, MAX15102EVKIT# application, or MAX15102EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of transient response, dropout behavior, thermal derating, and soft-start timing under real-world load conditions with minimal setup.

Technical Context

The MAX15102EVKIT# implements the MAX15102 IC in a fixed-output configuration (1.5V), using external resistors R1 (909Ω) and R2 (604Ω) to set the feedback divider. The board integrates a 0.1μF soft-start capacitor (C3) yielding ~6.5ms startup time and supports EN control via shunt JU1 to assert or disable regulation.

It provides direct access to IN, OUT, PGND, EN, and PG pins through test points and solder pads, with input decoupling (C1, C2) and output filtering (C3) placed per Maxim's recommended layout. No aluminum electrolytic (C4) or additional ceramic capacitors (C5–C8) are populated by default.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15102EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power management validation, LDO qualification testing, and embedded system bring-up requiring stable component supply, pre-validated thermal design, and production-ready layout reference.

Supply support for MAX15102EVKIT# 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX15101/MAX15102/MAX15103 product line targets space-constrained, high-current point-of-load regulation where ultra-low profile (WLP), fast transient response, and guaranteed 200mV dropout at full load are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX15102EVKIT#?

The MAX15102EVKIT# is an evaluation platform for the MAX15102 2A low-dropout linear regulator. It allows engineers to verify electrical performance-including regulation accuracy, load/line transient response, thermal behavior, and enable/PG functionality-under real operating conditions without designing a custom PCB. The MAX15102EVKIT# ships fully assembled and tested with optimized layout and component selection.

Can the output voltage of the MAX15102EVKIT# be adjusted?

Yes, the MAX15102EVKIT# output is adjustable from 0.6V up to (VIN – 200mV) by modifying the R1/R2 feedback resistor divider. The default 1.5V setting uses R1 = 909Ω and R2 = 604Ω. To change VOUT, retain R2 and recalculate R1 using the formula R1 = R2 × (VOUT / 0.6V – 1), where 0.6V is the internal feedback reference voltage of the MAX15102.

How is enable/disable control implemented on the MAX15102EVKIT#?

Enable/disable is controlled via jumper JU1. With the shunt installed, the EN pin is connected to IN and the MAX15102 is enabled. Removing the shunt pulls EN to GND through resistor R7, disabling the regulator and turning off the output. This hardware-based control requires no external logic and ensures predictable startup sequencing on the MAX15102EVKIT#.

What is the purpose of capacitor C3 on the MAX15102EVKIT#?

Capacitor C3 (0.1μF) connects the SS_BYP pin to GND and sets the soft-start time of the MAX15102 to approximately 6.5ms. This limits inrush current during power-up and reduces output voltage overshoot. The soft-start duration scales linearly with C3 value: tSS (seconds) = 6.315 × 10⁻⁵ × C3 (nF). C3 must be ≥4.7nF for stable operation on the MAX15102EVKIT#.

Does the MAX15102EVKIT# include thermal management features?

Yes, the MAX15102EVKIT# incorporates thermal design best practices: the MAX15102EWL+T WLP device is mounted directly over inner-layer copper pours (Fig. 6–7), and the PCB layout follows Maxim's recommended thermal pad stitching and ground plane partitioning. This enables measurable thermal performance-derating curves and junction temperature rise data are extractable using the MAX15102EVKIT# under defined airflow and load conditions.