Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1513EVKIT

Overview

The MAX1513EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit designed to demonstrate and validate the MAX1513 TFT-LCD power-supply controller IC, which integrates a 1.5MHz step-up regulator controller, three linear-regulator controllers (VGON, VGOFF, VLOGIC), a gamma-regulator controller (VGAMMA), and a high-performance buffer amplifier for VCOM/gamma string drive. It supports 2.7V–5.5V input, delivers up to +25V VGON, –10V VGOFF, +15V VMAIN, +3.3V VLOGIC, and +14.7V VGAMMA, and targets ultra-thin notebook and automotive LCD panel designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1513EVKIT datasheet, MAX1513EVKIT pinout, MAX1513EVKIT application, or MAX1513EVKIT equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of startup sequencing, load-transient response, soft-start behavior, and multi-rail regulation accuracy under real TFT-LCD panel load profiles - including pulsed source-driver currents and precise gamma-reference stability.

Technical Context

The MAX1513EVKIT implements the complete reference design for the MAX1513 IC, featuring a 2.2µH inductor, external N-channel MOSFET (FDN339AN), PNP/NPN pass transistors (NZT660, MMBT3904/3906), lossless current sensing via inductor DCR, and precision resistive feedback networks for all regulated outputs. It replicates the functional diagram's five independent regulation loops with dedicated soft-start, fault latching, and thermal protection per rail.

It validates critical timing relationships: adjustable DEL capacitor sets VGON delay after VMAIN stabilization; SDFR pin selects 430kHz/750kHz/1.5MHz switching frequency; and the buffer amplifier (SUPB/OUTB/FBPB) drives capacitive VCOM loads up to 10nF with 12MHz bandwidth and ±150mA short-circuit capability - all while maintaining <12mV input offset and >50dB CMRR.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX1513EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computer displays, automotive instrument cluster LCDs, and industrial panel PC power validation requiring stable component supply, pre-validated layout, and full schematic documentation.

Supply support for MAX1513EVKIT 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 demanding applications.

The MAX1513EVKIT belongs to Maxim's TFT-LCD Power-Supply Controller evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of multi-output, sequenced power systems for thin-film transistor display modules.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX1513EVKIT?

The MAX1513EVKIT is an evaluation kit that demonstrates the full functionality of the MAX1513 IC - a highly integrated TFT-LCD power controller. It validates simultaneous generation of VMAIN (+15V), VGON (+25V), VGOFF (–10V), VLOGIC (+3.3V), VGAMMA (+14.7V), and VCOM buffering, including startup sequencing, load transient response, and fault protection - all using the exact circuit topology shown in the MAX1513 datasheet Figure 1.

Does the MAX1513EVKIT support both MAX1513 and MAX1514 ICs?

No - the MAX1513EVKIT is designed exclusively for the MAX1513 IC. It includes populated components for the gamma regulator (FBG/DRVG) and buffer amplifier (SUPB/OUTB/FBPB), which are not present in the MAX1514. The MAX1514 lacks pins 3, 4, 5, 11, and 12, and its evaluation board (if available) would omit those sections. Using a MAX1514 on the MAX1513EVKIT board is not supported.

How is startup sequencing controlled on the MAX1513EVKIT?

Startup sequencing on the MAX1513EVKIT is controlled by the DEL pin (Pin 7), which connects to a timing capacitor to GND. This capacitor sets the delay between VMAIN regulation and VGON activation - preventing premature gate turn-on before source voltage is stable. The kit ships with a default DEL capacitor value aligned with the typical 4ms sequence shown in the MAX1513 datasheet Figure toc06.

Can the MAX1513EVKIT be used to evaluate efficiency and thermal performance?

Yes - the MAX1513EVKIT provides test points for all key rails (VMAIN, VGON, VGOFF, VLOGIC, VGAMMA) and includes sense resistors for input/output current measurement. Its layout follows thermal best practices with exposed pad grounding and copper pours, enabling direct measurement of efficiency (e.g., >85% at 1.5MHz, 400mA load) and junction temperature rise under sustained load per the MAX1513's 1349mW power dissipation rating.

What external components are required to operate the MAX1513EVKIT?

No external components are required - the MAX1513EVKIT is a fully assembled and tested board. It includes all necessary passives (ceramic and POSCAP capacitors), discrete transistors (Q1–Q4), diodes (D1–D3), inductor (L1), and feedback resistors. Users need only apply 4.5–5.5V DC to the VIN header and connect appropriate loads to each output rail to begin evaluation.