Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16952EVKIT#

Overview

MAX16952EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX16952 36V, 2.2MHz synchronous step-down controller - a current-mode PWM buck controller supporting 1V–10V adjustable or 5V fixed output, 3.5V–36V input, and 50µA skip-mode quiescent current. It enables rapid validation of automotive-grade power designs under cold-crank (3.5V) and load-dump (42V transient) conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16952EVKIT# datasheet, MAX16952EVKIT# setup guide, MAX16952EVKIT# test procedure, or MAX16952EVKIT# schematic, this kit provides fully assembled, tested hardware with jumper-selectable modes (PWM/skip), external clock synchronization capability, and real-time monitoring of PGOOD, VOUT, and switching waveforms - critical for AEC-Q100-compliant power-supply sequencing and transient response verification.

Technical Context

The MAX16952EVKIT# implements the MAX16952 controller in a thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP package, driving external n-channel MOSFETs to deliver up to 5A output current. It supports three operating modes: forced fixed-frequency PWM (via FSYNC tied to BIAS), skip mode (FSYNC grounded), and external clock synchronization (FSYNC driven at 1.1–2.4MHz).

Key circuit-level features include integrated soft-start (5ms), cycle-by-cycle current limiting (80mV CS threshold), ±2% output voltage accuracy, and power-good monitoring referenced to FB or OUT depending on configuration. The board includes BIAS-regulated 5V bias rail generation, BST capacitor support, and dedicated test points for SUP, LX, DH, DL, and PGOOD signals.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX16952EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment power rails, industrial PLC I/O modules, and military-grade DC-DC converter development requiring stable component supply, pre-validated layout, and production-ready reference design traceability.

Supply support for MAX16952EVKIT# 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-reliability analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications applications.

The MAX16952 product line delivers high-voltage synchronous buck controllers optimized for harsh-environment power conversion - designed specifically for automotive ADAS, body control modules, and infotainment systems demanding AEC-Q100 compliance, low IQ, and transient robustness.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX16952EVKIT#?

The MAX16952EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX16952 synchronous step-down controller IC. It enables engineers to validate power-conversion performance - including startup behavior, load/transient response, PGOOD timing, and thermal operation - without designing custom PCBs. The kit includes all necessary passives, MOSFET drivers, test points, and configuration jumpers to exercise the MAX16952's full feature set under real-world automotive conditions.

Does the MAX16952EVKIT# include the MAX16952 IC?

Yes, the MAX16952EVKIT# includes one pre-soldered MAX16952AUE+ IC in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed pad. The IC is AEC-Q100 qualified and operates across -40°C to +125°C. The board also integrates external gate drivers, BST capacitor, input/output filtering, and feedback resistors for both 5V fixed and adjustable output configurations.

Can the MAX16952EVKIT# be used to evaluate external clock synchronization?

Yes, the MAX16952EVKIT# supports external clock synchronization via the FSYNC pin. An SMA connector and series resistor allow injection of an external clock signal (1.1–2.4MHz) directly onto the FSYNC net. The board's schematic and layout maintain signal integrity for synchronization testing, and the user guide documents timing margins, jitter sensitivity, and recovery behavior when the external clock is interrupted.

What protection features can be verified using the MAX16952EVKIT#?

Using the MAX16952EVKIT#, engineers can verify overcurrent protection (via CS pin monitoring and current-limit waveform capture), thermal shutdown (by applying controlled load and measuring junction temperature rise), output overvoltage/undervoltage fault response (using programmable DC supplies), and PGOOD assertion/deassertion timing relative to VOUT regulation. All protections are implemented in hardware per the MAX16952 datasheet and require no firmware or configuration.

Is the MAX16952EVKIT# RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the MAX16952EVKIT# uses RoHS-compliant, lead-free components and assembly processes. The included MAX16952AUE+ IC carries the "+" suffix denoting lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant packaging, and the PCB conforms to IPC-J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 3 requirements. Full compliance documentation, including material declarations and test reports, is available upon request from Aetrix Electronics.