Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17088EVKIT+

Overview

MAX17088EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17088 TFT LCD power and timing controller IC. It integrates a 1.2MHz current-mode step-up regulator (1.9A MOSFET), ±150mA rail-to-rail VCOM op amp, 7-bit programmable VCOM calibrator with MTP memory, I²C interface, and +45V/–25V high-voltage scan driver - all optimized for notebook and monitor panel power management and gate driving.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17088EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX17088EVKIT+ pinout, MAX17088EVKIT+ application, or MAX17088EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of the MAX17088's full feature set - including BOOST regulation accuracy (±1.5%), VCOM amplifier slew rate (40V/µs), scan driver charge-sharing operation, and I²C-programmable VCOM calibration - in real TFT-LCD panel environments.

Technical Context

The MAX17088EVKIT+ implements the complete reference design for the MAX17088 IC, replicating its dual-domain power architecture: a 1.2MHz step-up converter delivering regulated VMAIN to source drivers, and a separate high-voltage domain (GON/GOFF) powering gate drivers with ±25V swing capability. The kit supports full functional verification of all integrated blocks - DC-DC regulation, VCOM amplification and calibration, and level-shifted scan logic - under real load conditions.

It provides access to all critical signals (CKV/CKVB, STVP, OE, CPV, SDA/SCL, SET, OUT, VCOM, BOOST) via test points and headers, enabling measurement of transient response (e.g., 10µs pulsed load recovery), VCOM settling time (20µs to ±0.5 LSB), and scan driver propagation delay (≤100ns). The board includes proper decoupling (1µF ceramic on IN/BOOST, 0.22µF on VL) and thermal layout per the IC's 36-pin thin QFN package requirements.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17088EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TFT-LCD display development, notebook panel qualification, and industrial monitor power architecture validation requiring stable component supply and full-feature hardware reference support.

Supply support for MAX17088EVKIT+ 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 demanding applications.

The MAX17088 product line was designed specifically for ultra-thin TFT-LCD panels in notebooks and monitors, integrating power conversion, precision VCOM control, and high-voltage gate driving into a single 6mm × 6mm QFN package.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX17088EVKIT+?

The MAX17088EVKIT+ is an officially supported evaluation kit for the MAX17088 IC. It enables engineers to validate the full functionality of the MAX17088 - including its 1.2MHz step-up regulator, ±150mA VCOM amplifier, 7-bit programmable VCOM calibrator with MTP memory, and +45V/–25V scan driver - in a real TFT-LCD panel environment before final design-in. The kit includes all necessary circuitry, test points, and documentation to accelerate development.

Does the MAX17088EVKIT+ support I²C programming of the MAX17088's VCOM calibration?

Yes, the MAX17088EVKIT+ fully supports I²C-based VCOM calibration. It provides accessible SDA and SCL lines with proper pull-up resistors, plus WPN/WPP control, allowing users to write calibration values to the MAX17088's on-chip MTP memory using standard I²C commands. This enables precise adjustment of the VCOM output voltage level during panel tuning and production testing.

Can the MAX17088EVKIT+ be used to measure the MAX17088's scan driver timing performance?

Yes, the MAX17088EVKIT+ provides direct access to all scan driver signals - CKV, CKVB, STVP, OE, CPV, and STV - via test points and headers. Engineers can use oscilloscopes to measure key timing parameters such as propagation delay (≤100ns from OE rise to CKV edge), slew rate (≥30V/µs), and charge-sharing behavior between CKV and CKVB outputs under capacitive loads up to 4.7nF.

What input voltage range does the MAX17088EVKIT+ accept for powering the MAX17088?

The MAX17088EVKIT+ accepts a DC input voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V on its VIN terminal, matching the operational input range of the MAX17088 IC. This allows direct connection to common system rails (e.g., 3.3V or 5V supplies) and supports evaluation across the full specified operating conditions of the device, including low-voltage battery scenarios.

Is thermal management addressed on the MAX17088EVKIT+ PCB layout?

Yes, the MAX17088EVKIT+ PCB implements thermal design aligned with the MAX17088's 36-pin thin QFN package requirements. It features an exposed thermal pad connected to internal copper planes, optimized trace routing for LX and PGND paths to minimize EMI and heating, and appropriate decoupling capacitor placement (1µF ceramic on IN/BOOST, 0.22µF on VL) to ensure stable operation under full load conditions.