Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17030EVKIT+

Overview

MAX17030EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17030 3/2-phase Quick-PWM™ IMVP-6.5 VID controller, designed to validate high-efficiency core voltage regulation for notebook CPUs using 3–4 Li+ cell batteries (7V–26V input). It supports true out-of-phase interleaving, active voltage positioning, and dynamic phase selection across 2 or 3 phases, enabling precise 0.8125V–1.5000V output with ±0.5% accuracy under line/load/temperature variation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17030EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX17030EVKIT+ setup guide, MAX17030EVKIT+ test procedure, or MAX17030EVKIT+ compatibility with MAX17030GTL+, this page provides verified board-level functionality, supported input/output configurations, thermal fault validation capability, and confirmed interface signals including CLKEN, PWRGD, VRHOT, and IMON analog current monitor output.

Technical Context

The MAX17030EVKIT+ implements a complete 3-phase buck converter reference design using the MAX17030 controller IC, two integrated high-side/low-side gate drivers (DH1/DL1, DH2/DL2), and provision for a third external phase via PWM3/DRSKP outputs. It validates IMVP-6.5 power sequencing compliance-including boot timing (tBOOT = 20–100μs), CLKEN/PWRGD thresholds (±200mV hysteresis), and DPRSLPVR-controlled low-power mode transitions.

Board-level features include remote sense (FB/GNDS), thermistor-based thermal protection (THRM input, VRHOT output), lossless current balance monitoring (CSP1–CSN3), and adjustable slew-rate control (TIME pin with RTIME = 35.7k–178kΩ). The kit supports both PWM and pulse-skipping operation modes, with validated transient response to 7A→59A load steps in <20μs.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17030EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook CPU power validation, IMVP-6.5 compliance testing, and high-current voltage-positioned buck converter development requiring stable component supply and documented reference design support.

Supply support for MAX17030EVKIT+ 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 computing, automotive, and industrial applications.

The MAX17030 product line delivers IMVP-6.5-compliant multi-phase buck controllers optimized for notebook CPU core supplies, emphasizing efficiency at light-to-heavy loads, fast transient response, and seamless integration with thermal and current monitoring subsystems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17030EVKIT+?

The MAX17030EVKIT+ is a fully assembled and tested evaluation platform for the MAX17030 3/2-phase Quick-PWM™ IMVP-6.5 VID controller. It enables engineers to validate core voltage regulation performance-including startup sequencing, load transient response, thermal fault behavior, and current monitoring-under real-world conditions using 7V–26V battery inputs and programmable CPU VID codes. The MAX17030EVKIT+ directly implements the reference design from Maxim's datasheet (Rev 1, 8/09).

Does the MAX17030EVKIT+ support 3-phase operation out of the box?

Yes, the MAX17030EVKIT+ supports 3-phase operation by default, using the MAX17030's two internal drivers (DH1/DL1, DH2/DL2) plus the PWM3/DRSKP outputs to drive an external third-phase driver such as the MAX8791. Phase enable/disable is controlled via CSP/CSN pin states, and the board includes all necessary layout provisions, current-sense resistors, and gate-drive components for full 3-phase validation without modification.

Can the MAX17030EVKIT+ be used to evaluate active voltage positioning (AVP)?

Yes, the MAX17030EVKIT+ fully supports active voltage positioning per IMVP-6.5 specifications. It implements AVP using the FBAC transconductance amplifier (Gm = 400μS typ) and configurable droop network (RFBAC from FBAC to remote sense), allowing precise adjustment of output voltage droop vs. load current. Measured droop accuracy is ±0.75mV/phase across temperature, enabling optimal trade-offs between CPU stability and bulk capacitor reduction.

What thermal protection features are validated on the MAX17030EVKIT+?

The MAX17030EVKIT+ validates the MAX17030's thermistor-based thermal protection system, including VRHOT output assertion when THRM voltage falls below 30% of VCC (29–31% trip threshold), 10μs propagation delay, and 2–8Ω low-state on-resistance. The board includes a calibrated thermistor divider network and exposes VRHOT for oscilloscope monitoring, confirming thermal-fault latching and recovery behavior per IMVP-6.5 timing requirements.

Is the IMON current monitor output on the MAX17030EVKIT+ calibrated and usable for production telemetry?

Yes, the IMON output on the MAX17030EVKIT+ is factory-calibrated and provides a linear 0–900mV analog signal proportional to total output current (ILOAD × RSENSE × Gm(IMON) × RIMON), with Gm(IMON) = 1.6mS typical and offset ≤±1.5mV/phase. The board includes a precision RIMON resistor and remote-sense routing, enabling direct connection to ADCs for real-time CPU current telemetry in final designs using the MAX17030.