Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16936EVKIT#

Overview

MAX16936EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX16936 36V, 2.5A current-mode step-down converter with integrated high-side/low-side MOSFETs, 28µA quiescent current, resistor-programmable 220kHz–2.2MHz switching frequency, and AEC-Q100 qualification-designed for automotive power supply validation in navigation head units and RF-sensitive systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16936EVKIT# datasheet, MAX16936EVKIT# pinout, MAX16936EVKIT# application, or MAX16936EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid characterization of FPWM/skip-mode behavior, SYNCOUT cascading, PGOOD sequencing, load-dump resilience (42V), and thermal shutdown recovery under -40°C to +125°C conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX16936EVKIT# implements the MAX16936 IC in a fully assembled, tested TSSOP-EP layout with all critical passive components-including 2.2µH inductor, 4.7µF/22µF input/output ceramics, 0.1µF BST capacitor, and 1µF BIAS bypass-configured for 5V fixed output at 2.2MHz. It supports both skip mode (FSYNC = GND) and forced-PWM operation (FSYNC = BIAS or external clock), with real-time monitoring via test points for LX, COMP, FB, and PGOOD.

Key design features include 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT for multi-rail synchronization, automatic LX slew-rate adjustment (4ns/8ns), spread-spectrum EMI reduction (factory-enabled on S-version), and cold-crank transient support via 98% max duty cycle-validated per ISO 7637-2 Pulse 4 and Load Dump (ISO 16750-2) waveforms.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX16936EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power validation, RF transceiver supply design, navigation system prototyping, and industrial DC-DC qualification requiring stable component supply and full reference documentation.

Supply support for MAX16936EVKIT# 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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16936 product line delivers robust, AEC-Q100-qualified DC-DC converters optimized for automotive infotainment, ADAS, and body electronics-emphasizing low IQ, wide VIN, EMI control, and seamless power sequencing.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX16936EVKIT#?

The MAX16936EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX16936 36V, 2.5A synchronous step-down converter. It enables engineers to validate key performance parameters-including efficiency across load ranges, FPWM vs. skip-mode EMI behavior, PGOOD timing, SYNCOUT phase alignment, and thermal response-under real-world automotive voltage transients and temperature extremes.

Does the MAX16936EVKIT# support both MAX16936 and MAX16938 devices?

Yes, the MAX16936EVKIT# is compatible with both MAX16936 and MAX16938 ICs. The board accommodates either device in the same 16-pin TSSOP-EP footprint and supports their shared features-including 3.5V–36V input, 28µA quiescent current, 220kHz–2.2MHz programmability, and PGOOD/SYNCOUT functionality-while allowing differentiation of OVP thresholds (107% vs. 105% V_FB) during testing.

How is the switching frequency configured on the MAX16936EVKIT#?

The MAX16936EVKIT# uses a default 12kΩ resistor from FOSC to AGND to set the switching frequency to 2.2MHz. Users can reconfigure it by replacing R_FOSC with values from 73.2kΩ (400kHz) to 12kΩ (2.2MHz), per the datasheet's FOSC vs. frequency curve. The kit also supports external synchronization via the FSYNC input, accepting clocks from 1.8MHz to 2.6MHz.

Can the MAX16936EVKIT# demonstrate load-dump and cold-crank resilience?

Yes, the MAX16936EVKIT# is designed to validate MAX16936's 42V load-dump tolerance and undervoltage operation down to 3.5V. Its layout includes appropriate input capacitance and grounding to replicate ISO 16750-2 and ISO 7637-2 Pulse 4 waveforms. Test points allow oscilloscope capture of V_OUT, PGOOD, and LX during transient events, confirming stable regulation and automatic recovery.

What are the key test points and jumpers on the MAX16936EVKIT#?

The MAX16936EVKIT# provides accessible test points for LX, COMP, FB, PGOOD, SYNCOUT, and EN, enabling direct probing of dynamic waveforms and feedback behavior. It includes solder-jumper options to configure FSYNC (GND for skip mode, BIAS for FPWM), select output voltage (5V fixed or adjustable), and enable/disable spread-spectrum modulation-facilitating rapid configuration changes without component replacement.