Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15158AEVKIT#

Overview

MAX15158AEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX15158A high-voltage multiphase boost controller in inverting-buck-boost configurations. It supports -8V to -60V input, delivers 3.3V–60V output (default 35V), operates across -40°C to +125°C, and integrates two MAX15013 MOSFET drivers and an onboard MAX17552 buck converter for 10V DRV supply.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15158AEVKIT# datasheet, MAX15158AEVKIT# pinout, MAX15158AEVKIT# application, or MAX15158AEVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid characterization of high-efficiency, wide-input-range DC-DC conversion with configurable voltage, compensation, current limit, and multi-phase synchronization-critical for industrial power supplies, telecom rectifiers, and battery-powered HV systems.

Technical Context

The MAX15158AEVKIT# implements a proven six-layer PCB design hosting the MAX15158A controller, two MAX15013 half-bridge drivers, four BSC110N15NS5 MOSFETs, and supporting passive components including 10µH and 150µH inductors, 4.7µF/100V X7S ceramics, and 220µF/63V electrolytics. It uses banana jacks for VIN+/VIN− and VOUT+/VOUT−, test points for EN, CLOCK, COMP, FB, REFIN, and BODE±, and jumpers (J3/J4) for onboard vs. external DRV supply selection.

Hardware features include dual-phase operation support via J1/J2/J8/J9/J10/J11 interconnect headers, adjustable UVLO threshold (default 21V via R19/R20), FREQ/CLK pin configurable for 480kHz–4MHz external clock or resistor-set switching frequency, and REFIN pin accessible for external reference (1V–2.2V) to modify output regulation-distinct from the standard MAX15158EVKIT# which includes REFIN connectivity.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15158AEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, telecom rectifier prototyping, and high-voltage battery management system development requiring stable component supply and full hardware reference design access.

Supply support for MAX15158AEVKIT# 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, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX15158 family targets high-efficiency, wide-input-range DC-DC conversion in space-constrained, thermally demanding systems-designed specifically for inverting-buck-boost topologies where traditional controllers lack integrated phase control or negative-input compatibility.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX15158AEVKIT#?

The MAX15158AEVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX15158A high-voltage multiphase boost controller. It enables engineers to validate inverting-buck-boost operation across -8V to -60V input and 3.3V to 60V output, with configurable compensation, current limit, and dual-phase synchronization-without requiring custom PCB design or component sourcing. The MAX15158AEVKIT# includes all necessary drivers, magnetics, and support circuitry on a six-layer board.

How does the MAX15158AEVKIT# differ from the MAX15158EVKIT#?

The MAX15158AEVKIT# is the "No REFIN version" per Maxim's ordering table-meaning the REFIN pin is not externally accessible (R9 is installed as 0Ω), unlike the standard MAX15158EVKIT# which allows external reference injection (1V–2.2V) to adjust output voltage. This simplifies use cases where fixed-output regulation suffices and eliminates potential noise coupling through the reference path. All other hardware-including U2 (MAX15158AATJ+), drivers, inductors, and layout-is identical.

Can the MAX15158AEVKIT# be used for dual-phase operation?

Yes-the MAX15158AEVKIT# supports dual-phase configuration via interconnect jumpers J1, J2, J8, J9, J10, and J11, enabling master/slave synchronization between two boards as specified in the MAX15158A data sheet. The FREQ/CLK pin accepts external clocks (480kHz–4MHz) or resistor-based frequency setting, and the SYNC pin allows precise phase alignment. This capability is validated in the schematic and bill of materials, confirming scalability beyond single-phase testing.

What power supply requirements are needed to operate the MAX15158AEVKIT#?

A single 60V DC power supply (e.g., 48V) is required, connected to the VIN+ and VIN− banana jacks. The board derives its 10V DRV supply internally from the MAX17552AUB+ buck converter when jumpers J3 and J4 are installed; no auxiliary supply is needed unless external DRV is selected. Input polarity must be observed strictly: negative input applied to VIN−, positive to VIN+, as the design is optimized for inverting operation.

Does the MAX15158AEVKIT# include test points for stability analysis?

Yes-the MAX15158AEVKIT# provides dedicated BODE+ and BODE− test points straddling a 10Ω resistor between VOUT_P and OUTP, enabling small-signal injection for loop-gain measurement. Additional test points include EN, CLOCK, COMP, FB, PGOOD, and SS, allowing full dynamic characterization of startup, load transient response, and compensation network behavior without soldering or probing sensitive nodes.