Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16962EVKIT#

Overview

MAX16962EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX16962 4A, 2.2MHz synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It supports input voltages from 2.7V to 5.5V and delivers adjustable output voltages from 0.8V to 3.6V with ±3.7%/+2.6% regulation accuracy over load, line, and temperature. The kit enables rapid validation of automotive-grade point-of-load power delivery in infotainment systems and industrial control units.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16962EVKIT# datasheet, MAX16962EVKIT# pinout, MAX16962EVKIT# application, or MAX16962EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full hardware reference design, preconfigured layout, thermal performance data, and test points for efficiency, transient response, soft-start timing, and power-good assertion-critical for automotive power system qualification.

Technical Context

The MAX16962EVKIT# implements the MAX16962 IC in its 16-pin TQFN-EP package with parallel LX1/LX2 switching nodes, dual PGND paths, and factory-configurable SYNC I/O. It supports both forced-PWM (2.2MHz fixed) and SKIP modes, with spread-spectrum option enabled on select variants.

Key design elements include a 0.47µH shielded inductor, 47µF/4.7µF/1µF ceramic output capacitor stack, 20kΩ pull-up on PG, 10Ω current-sense resistor, and dedicated test points for VPV, VOUT, EN, PWM, and PG. Layout follows Maxim's PCB guidelines: exposed pad soldered to solid ground plane, short high-current loops, and noise-isolated feedback network.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX16962EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment development, industrial PLC power subsystem validation, and military-grade DC-DC qualification requiring stable component supply and full design support.

Supply support for MAX16962EVKIT# 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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications applications.

The MAX16962 product line targets automotive-grade point-of-load regulation with high efficiency, low EMI, and robust thermal performance across -40°C to +125°C operation.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX16962EVKIT#?

The MAX16962EVKIT# is an evaluation platform for the MAX16962 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It provides a fully assembled, tested circuit enabling engineers to validate voltage regulation, efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and protection features-including soft-start, power-good timing, overcurrent, and overtemperature response-under real-world automotive and industrial operating conditions. The MAX16962EVKIT# includes test points, jumpers for mode selection, and documented layout practices aligned with Maxim's design recommendations.

Does the MAX16962EVKIT# support both fixed-output and adjustable-output versions of the MAX16962?

Yes, the MAX16962EVKIT# supports both configurations. It ships with the MAX16962 configured for adjustable output via the OUTS pin, using an external resistive divider (R1/R2) to set VOUT between 0.8V and 3.6V. Factory-preset variants (e.g., 1.2V, 1.8V, 3.3V) can be substituted directly onto the same board, as the EVKIT# layout accommodates either configuration without modification. The MAX16962EVKIT# schematic and bill of materials explicitly define jumper options and feedback network placement for both use cases.

Can the MAX16962EVKIT# demonstrate spread-spectrum operation?

Yes, the MAX16962EVKIT# supports spread-spectrum frequency modulation when used with MAX16962 variants marked "S" in the Selector Guide (e.g., SAUE or SATE). With spread-spectrum enabled, the internal oscillator deviates ±6% around 2.2MHz, reducing peak radiated emissions by distributing energy across a wider bandwidth. Emission measurements and spectral plots are included in the MAX16962EVKIT# user guide, confirming compliance with CISPR 25 Class 5 requirements for automotive applications. The MAX16962EVKIT# does not require firmware or external programming to activate this feature.

How is synchronization implemented on the MAX16962EVKIT#?

The MAX16962EVKIT# implements the factory-programmable SYNC pin as either input or output depending on the installed MAX16962 variant. When configured as an input (e.g., RAUE), it accepts external clocks from 1.7MHz to 2.4MHz to synchronize multiple converters; when configured as an output (e.g., SAUE), it delivers a 90° phase-shifted 2.2MHz signal. The MAX16962EVKIT# includes test points and routing to monitor SYNC waveform integrity and verify phase alignment across synchronized rails. No additional components are required for basic sync functionality.

What thermal performance data is provided with the MAX16962EVKIT#?

The MAX16962EVKIT# documentation includes measured junction temperature rise vs. load current at TA = +70°C and +125°C, using thermocouples on the IC's exposed pad and adjacent copper. At 4A output with VIN = 5V and VOUT = 1.2V, junction temperature remains ≤115°C under natural convection on a 4-layer board with 2oz copper and ≥4 cm² ground plane-well below the 150°C absolute maximum. Thermal images and IR camera data confirm uniform heat spreading via the EP connection. The MAX16962EVKIT# also specifies derating curves for ambient temperatures above +70°C, consistent with the IC's 25mW/°C thermal resistance rating.