Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX15462C12EVKIT#

Overview

MAX15462C12EVKIT# from Analog Devices is an evaluation kit for the MAX15462C adjustable-output, 42V input, 300mA synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in 2mm × 2mm TDFN package. It supports output voltages from 0.9V to 0.89×VIN, features peak-current-mode control, MODE-selectable PFM/PWM operation, internal soft-start, and open-drain RESET monitoring - enabling rapid validation in industrial sensor and 4–20mA loop power designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX15462C12EVKIT# datasheet, MAX15462C12EVKIT# pinout, MAX15462C12EVKIT# application, or MAX15462C12EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full hardware reference design, test points for VIN/VOUT/LX/EN/UVLO/MODE/RESET, prepopulated 33µH inductor and 10µF ceramic output capacitor, and verified layout for EMI-sensitive 42V-to-3.3V/5V/12V point-of-load conversion under -40°C to +125°C ambient conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX15462C12EVKIT# implements the MAX15462C IC in a fully assembled, tested PCB layout optimized for low-noise, high-efficiency operation across 4.5V–42V input. It leverages the IC's integrated high-side pMOS (1.75Ω typ) and low-side nMOS (0.55Ω typ), 500kHz fixed-frequency PWM or light-load PFM mode, and monotonic startup into prebiased outputs.

Key design elements include ceramic-only input/output filtering (1µF CVCC, 1µF CIN, 10µF COUT), resistor-divider feedback network configured for 12V output (R1 = 121kΩ, R2 = 10kΩ), EN/UVLO threshold set to ~12V via external divider, and RESET pull-up to VOUT for system-level power-good signaling.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX15462C12EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor power, 4–20mA loop transmitters, and HVAC controller development requiring stable component supply, fast prototyping turnaround, and traceable evaluation hardware sourcing.

Supply support for MAX15462C12EVKIT# 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The MAX15462 product line delivers ultra-small, high-efficiency synchronous buck converters for harsh industrial environments - designed specifically for reliable 4–20mA loop power, process control sensors, and high-voltage LDO replacement where space, thermal margin, and input voltage range are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX15462C12EVKIT#?

The MAX15462C12EVKIT# is an evaluation kit for the MAX15462C DC-DC converter IC, preconfigured to deliver 12V output at up to 300mA from 4.5V–42V input. It includes all passive components, test points, and layout-optimized PCB to accelerate design-in, performance validation, and EMI testing - not intended for end-product integration.

Does the MAX15462C12EVKIT# support adjustable output voltage?

Yes - the MAX15462C12EVKIT# uses the MAX15462C IC, which supports adjustable output from 0.9V to 0.89×VIN via external resistor-divider on FB/VOUT. The default configuration sets 12V output (R1 = 121kΩ, R2 = 10kΩ), but users can replace R1/R2 to target other voltages such as 3.3V or 5V without board modification.

Can the MAX15462C12EVKIT# operate in both PFM and PWM modes?

Yes - the MAX15462C12EVKIT# inherits the MODE pin functionality of the MAX15462C IC. Leaving MODE unconnected enables automatic PFM mode at light loads (for >90% efficiency down to 1mA), while grounding MODE forces constant-frequency PWM operation (500kHz ±35kHz) across all loads - selectable via onboard jumper or external control signal.

What protection features are demonstrated by the MAX15462C12EVKIT#?

The MAX15462C12EVKIT# demonstrates hiccup-mode overcurrent protection (trip at 0.56A peak, retry after 131ms timeout), thermal shutdown (166°C junction, 10°C hysteresis), output undervoltage monitoring via open-drain RESET (asserts low below 92% of regulation), and monotonic startup into prebiased outputs - all verified per MAX15462C datasheet specifications.

Is the MAX15462C12EVKIT# compatible with other MAX15462 variants?

Yes - the MAX15462C12EVKIT# PCB accepts MAX15462A (3.3V fixed), MAX15462B (5V fixed), and MAX15462C (adjustable) in the same 8-pin TDFN package. Only the feedback resistor-divider needs adjustment to match the target output voltage; no layout change is required for variant substitution during evaluation.