Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17094EVKIT+

Overview

MAX17094EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17094 TFT-LCD power management IC, integrating a 1.2MHz current-mode boost regulator, 250mA LDO, 20MHz rail-to-rail op amp, seven-channel ±10V to +30V high-voltage level shifter, and I²C-programmable 7-bit VCOM calibrator with nonvolatile IVR memory. It supports notebook display panel power sequencing and VCOM calibration.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17094EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX17094EVKIT+ pinout, MAX17094EVKIT+ application, or MAX17094EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of TFT-LCD bias supply generation, gate driver timing, VCOM settling accuracy (±0.5 LSB), and I²C-based production calibration workflows - critical for thin-bezel notebook display designs requiring <10μs VCOM step response and <32ns Y-driver rise/fall times.

Technical Context

The MAX17094EVKIT+ implements the full reference design for the MAX17094 IC, replicating its dual-supply architecture: a programmable 450kHz–1.2MHz boost converter generating VMAIN (6–14V) for source drivers, and independent GON1/GON2/GOFF rails (+21V/−6.5V typical) for scan drivers. The board routes all 48 TQFN pins to test points and connectors, including dedicated headers for SDA/SCL, ADDR0/ADDR1, and analog outputs (VCOM, POS, NEG).

It validates key system-level behaviors: synchronized soft-start sequencing (VL → VLOUT → VMAIN → GOFF/GON → VCOM), thermal shutdown at 160°C, and I²C write-cycle-limited VCOM calibration (30 cycles, 150ms per write). The kit includes pre-populated ceramic bypassing (0.1μF AVDD–BGND, 4.7μF LOUT–GND), matching the IC's layout-critical requirements for <100pF SDA/SCL trace capacitance and <200pF SS capacitor timing control.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17094EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computer display development, TFT-LCD panel qualification, and VCOM calibration process validation requiring stable component supply, full functional verification, and production-ready I²C calibration firmware integration.

Supply support for MAX17094EVKIT+ 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management solutions for high-reliability applications.

The MAX17094 product line targets thin-film transistor LCD power systems, integrating multiple voltage rails, timing-critical drivers, and factory-calibratable VCOM into a single 6mm × 6mm package to reduce PCB area and simplify display subsystem design.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17094EVKIT+?

The MAX17094EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit designed exclusively to validate the MAX17094 IC's complete functionality - including its integrated boost regulator, 250mA LDO, 20MHz op amp, seven-channel high-voltage level shifter, and I²C-programmable VCOM calibrator - in real TFT-LCD panel power architectures. It is not a production component but a hardware reference platform.

Does the MAX17094EVKIT+ include the MAX17094 IC?

Yes, the MAX17094EVKIT+ includes one pre-soldered MAX17094ETM+ IC in a 48-pin TQFN package. The kit provides all necessary passive components (inductors, capacitors, resistors) and interface headers to operate the IC per its datasheet specifications, including VMAIN generation, GON/GOFF sequencing, and VCOM calibration via I²C.

Can the MAX17094EVKIT+ be used for production calibration of VCOM voltage?

Yes - the MAX17094EVKIT+ fully supports production VCOM calibration using the MAX17094's built-in 7-bit DAC and nonvolatile IVR memory. It validates the entire I²C write sequence (up to 30 cycles), 150ms memory write time, and ±0.5 LSB settling accuracy required for factory panel tuning, as confirmed by Figures toc24–toc27 in the MAX17094 datasheet.

What input voltage range does the MAX17094EVKIT+ support?

The MAX17094EVKIT+ supports the same input range as the MAX17094 IC: 1.8V to 5.5V on the IN pin. It has been validated across this range, including low-voltage operation down to 2.2V (per toc01 efficiency plot) and full functionality at 3.3V and 5.0V, with proper bypassing per the recommended 0.1μF ceramic capacitor on IN–AGND.

How does the MAX17094EVKIT+ verify high-speed level-shifter performance?

The MAX17094EVKIT+ validates Y2–Y8 level-shifter timing per datasheet specs: ≤32ns rise/fall time and ≤125ns propagation delay (C_LOAD = 100pF), using test points accessible on the board. Oscilloscope measurements confirm these values match Figures toc21–toc23, ensuring compatibility with fast-switching TFT panel row drivers requiring sub-100ns edge fidelity.