Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15157DEVKIT#

Overview

MAX15157DEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to characterize the MAX15157D 240W synchronous step-down controller. It operates from a 40V–60V DC input, delivers 12V/20A output at 150kHz, supports multiphase expansion up to 8 phases, and includes configurable input UVLO, output OVP, soft-start, and PGOOD monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15157DEVKIT# datasheet, MAX15157DEVKIT# pinout, MAX15157DEVKIT# application, or MAX15157DEVKIT# equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, jumper-based setup guidance, multiphase interconnect topology, and design-specific parameter tuning (e.g., VOUT via R7/R8, fSW via R3, REFIN selection, and hiccup fault behavior).

Technical Context

The MAX15157DEVKIT# implements the MAX15157D current-mode buck controller in a fixed 12V output configuration using internal 2V reference (JU1 pins 2–3 shunted), with external slope compensation and adjustable soft-start via C13. It uses an on-board MAX15062C auxiliary regulator for DRV biasing and supports master/slave synchronization through J1–J7 headers for scalable multiphase operation.

Hardware-level configurability includes input voltage range extension down to 8V via UVLO resistor divider (R12/R13), output voltage adjustment from 3V to 0.95×VIN via FB resistor network or external 1V–2.2V REFIN, and switching frequency tuning from 60kHz to 1MHz using R3 or external CLOCKIN signal.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15157DEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC-DC converter design verification, multiphase regulator prototyping, and industrial 48V system development requiring stable component supply and documented reference hardware.

Supply support for MAX15157DEVKIT# 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 MAX15157D product line targets high-efficiency, high-power-density intermediate bus converters operating from 8V–60V inputs, with emphasis on scalability, phase interleaving, and robust fault handling in server, telecom, and factory automation systems.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage of the MAX15157DEVKIT# and how is it set?

The MAX15157DEVKIT# defaults to 12V output by installing a shunt across pins 2–3 of jumper JU1, selecting the internal 2V reference. This configures the feedback network (R7 = 49.9kΩ, R8 = 10kΩ) per VOUT = VREF × (R7 + R8)/R8. The MAX15157DEVKIT# schematic confirms this preset mode yields exactly 12V under nominal conditions, and output can be reconfigured using external REFIN or resistor adjustments.

How does the MAX15157DEVKIT# support multiphase operation?

The MAX15157DEVKIT# supports up to eight-phase operation via dedicated interconnect headers: J4/J6/J7 on the master board connect to J1/J2/J3 on each slave board. Table 3 in the user guide specifies distinct jumper configurations (e.g., JU1, JU4, JU8 populated on master; JU3, JU4, JU9 on slaves) and component DNI status to ensure proper clock distribution, current sharing, and enable sequencing - all validated in the MAX15157DEVKIT# hardware layout and bill of materials.

Can the MAX15157DEVKIT# operate below 40V input, and what modifications are required?

Yes, the MAX15157DEVKIT# can operate as low as 8V input by modifying the UVLO resistor divider (R12/R13) per VIN_min = VUVLO × (R12 + R13)/R12, where VUVLO = 1.0V (typ). Additionally, the MAX15062C (U2) EN/UVLO threshold must be satisfied: VIN_min > 1.215V × (R33 + R35)/R35. If DRV supply falls below specification, an external 10V source must be applied between VDRV and PGND, and jumpers JU10/JU11 removed - all confirmed in the MAX15157DEVKIT# setup documentation.

What is the role of the PGOOD signal on the MAX15157DEVKIT# and how is it implemented?

The PGOOD signal on the MAX15157DEVKIT# is a power-good indicator pulled up to the 4.6V BIAS rail via R9. It asserts high when VOUT exceeds 90% of its programmed value and pulls low otherwise, providing real-time regulation status for system sequencing. Test points labeled "PGOOD" and "PGND_VOUT" are provided for oscilloscope monitoring, and the behavior is directly tied to the MAX15157D's internal comparator - verified in the MAX15157DEVKIT# schematic and functional test procedure.

How is switching frequency configured on the MAX15157DEVKIT#?

Switching frequency on the MAX15157DEVKIT# is set to 150kHz by default using R3 = 24.9kΩ from FREQ/CLK to GND, per fSW = (R3/100kΩ) × 600kHz. To adjust, replace R3 or drive the FREQ/CLK pin with an external 0–5V clock at twice the desired fSW (no R3 removal needed). This dual-mode configuration - resistor-based or clock-synchronized - is explicitly supported by the MAX15157D silicon and implemented without modification on the MAX15157DEVKIT# board.