Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16955EVKIT#

Overview

MAX16955EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX16955 36V, 1MHz synchronous step-down controller, designed to validate power supply designs in automotive and industrial environments with input voltages from 3.5V to 36V, 50μA skip-mode quiescent current, and pin-programmable 5V fixed or 1V–10V adjustable output. It supports external frequency synchronization up to 1.1MHz and features integrated power-good monitoring, thermal shutdown, and overvoltage/undervoltage protection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16955EVKIT# datasheet, MAX16955EVKIT# setup guide, MAX16955EVKIT# test procedure, or MAX16955EVKIT# compatibility with MAX16955 controller ICs, this kit enables rapid validation of high-efficiency, low-I_Q buck converter designs under cold-crank, load-dump, and slow-ramp input conditions - critical for automotive ADAS, infotainment, and body control modules requiring AEC-Q100-aligned performance verification.

Technical Context

The MAX16955EVKIT# implements the MAX16955 controller in a fully assembled, tested reference design using discrete n-channel MOSFETs, a 2.2μH power inductor, ceramic input/output capacitors, and precision feedback resistors. It replicates the controller's three operating modes - forced fixed-frequency PWM, skip mode, and external clock synchronization - with accessible test points for V_IN, V_OUT, PGOOD, EN, FSYNC, and current-sense signals.

Board-level features include cold-crank simulation (down to 3.5V), load-dump transient handling (up to 36V), programmable soft-start (5ms), and BIAS rail stabilization via 2.2μF ceramic capacitor - all aligned with the MAX16955's -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature specification and thermally enhanced 16-pin TSSOP-EP package layout.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX16955EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power system validation, industrial PoL prototyping, and military-grade DC-DC qualification requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and documented thermal/transient performance data.

Supply support for MAX16955EVKIT# 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 applications.

The MAX16955 product line delivers automotive-qualified synchronous buck controllers optimized for wide-input, low-quiescent-current operation in harsh environments - targeting engine control units, telematics, and ADAS power rails where reliability under cold-crank and load-dump stress is mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX16955EVKIT#?

The MAX16955EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX16955 synchronous step-down controller. It enables engineers to verify startup behavior, load-transient response, cold-crank operation, and protection functionality without designing a custom PCB - accelerating development of automotive and industrial 5V or adjustable-output power supplies.

Does the MAX16955EVKIT# support both fixed 5V and adjustable output configurations?

Yes, the MAX16955EVKIT# supports both configurations. It ships configured for 5V fixed output (FB tied to BIAS), but includes solder jumpers and footprint pads to reconfigure for 1V–10V adjustable output using an external resistor divider - matching the MAX16955's dual-mode capability as specified in its datasheet.

Can the MAX16955EVKIT# demonstrate synchronization to an external clock?

Yes, the MAX16955EVKIT# provides dedicated FSYNC test points and onboard termination resistors to accept external clock signals up to 1.1MHz. Synchronization behavior - including seamless fallback to internal oscillator upon signal loss - is confirmed per MAX16955 electrical characteristics and functional diagram.

How does the MAX16955EVKIT# validate cold-crank and load-dump resilience?

The MAX16955EVKIT# includes test points and waveform capture capability to reproduce cold-crank (input ramped from 3.5V) and load-dump (36V transient) events. Its layout and component selection - including input TVS diode, bulk capacitance, and thermal pad grounding - ensure the MAX16955 operates in dropout mode and recovers regulation without latch-up, as documented in typical operating characteristics.

Is thermal performance validated on the MAX16955EVKIT#?

Yes, the MAX16955EVKIT# uses the same 16-pin TSSOP-EP package layout and copper pour strategy as the MAX16955 production IC. Thermal imaging and junction temperature measurements confirm operation within -40°C to +125°C ambient, with thermal shutdown activation at +175°C and 15°C hysteresis - consistent with MAX16955 absolute maximum ratings.