Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17103EVKIT+

Overview

MAX17103EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17103 DC-DC converter IC, designed to power TFT LCD panels with integrated step-up regulation, VCOM op-amp, gate-on/off drivers, and LDO. It delivers +8.5V/250mA (VMAIN), +23V/10mA (VGHON), -6V/10mA (VVGL), and 2.5V/350mA (VLOGIC) from a 2.5–3.6V input, supporting notebook display power architectures.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17103EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX17103EVKIT+ pinout, MAX17103EVKIT+ application, or MAX17103EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of TFT LCD bias supply sequencing, scan driver timing, VCOM settling performance, and integrated fault protection behavior under real panel load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17103EVKIT+ implements the full reference design of the MAX17103 IC, including its 1.2MHz current-mode step-up controller driving a 10μH inductor, rail-to-rail ±200mA VCOM amplifier (50V/µs slew rate), 32-pin thin QFN package layout, and high-voltage level-shifting scan outputs (CKH/XCKH/STH) with charge-sharing logic (CS/QS).

It validates critical system-level interactions: coordinated startup sequence (VLOGIC → VMAIN → VGHON/VVGL → OPAS), GD-controlled power-off sequencing, RST delay via CD capacitor, and FBN-regulated negative VGL generation using external npn pass transistor Q1 - all per Figure 1 and functional diagram in the MAX17103 datasheet.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17103EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computer displays, industrial HMI panels, and medical-grade LCD instrumentation requiring stable component supply and validated reference designs for TFT bias power.

Supply support for MAX17103EVKIT+ 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, power management, and interface solutions for demanding applications.

The MAX17103 product line targets TFT LCD panel power management, integrating multiple rails and drivers into a single 32-pin QFN to reduce board area and simplify design for thin portable displays.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17103EVKIT+?

The MAX17103EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit that demonstrates and validates the full functionality of the MAX17103 IC - a highly integrated power solution for TFT LCD panels. It provides complete reference circuitry to generate VMAIN (+8.5V), VGHON (+23V), VVGL (-6V), VLOGIC (2.5V), and VCOM drive, enabling engineers to verify power sequencing, scan driver timing, and fault response before final design integration. The MAX17103EVKIT+ includes all necessary components, layout, and documentation per Maxim's datasheet Figure 1.

Does the MAX17103EVKIT+ support adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX17103EVKIT+ supports adjustment of key outputs via resistor dividers and external components. VMAIN is set by R1/R2 on FB; VGHON and VVGL are controlled by feedback networks on FBN and DRVN; VLOGIC is configured via LDOADJ; and RST delay is tuned using the CD capacitor. All adjustments follow the MAX17103's specified reference voltages (1.24V for FB/LDOADJ, ~400mV for FBN) and are validated in the kit's schematic and bill of materials.

Can the MAX17103EVKIT+ be used with non-Maxim display panels?

Yes - the MAX17103EVKIT+ is designed for general TFT LCD panel evaluation and supports configurable timing and voltage levels compatible with standard panel interfaces. Its CKH/XCKH/STH outputs meet common gate driver voltage swing requirements (up to 40V differential), and the CS/QS charge-sharing feature adapts to varying capacitive loads. Engineers must verify panel-specific timing margins, VGH/VGL voltage tolerances, and startup sequence compliance against their target display's datasheet, but the MAX17103EVKIT+ provides the foundational bias architecture.

What thermal considerations apply to the MAX17103EVKIT+ during operation?

The MAX17103EVKIT+ incorporates thermal design aligned with the MAX17103's 150°C junction limit and 1990mW power dissipation rating at +70°C ambient. The PCB uses the exposed pad (EP) tied to AGND for heat sinking, and layout minimizes LX/PGND loop area to reduce switching losses. Under full load (250mA VMAIN + 10mA VGHON + 10mA VVGL), temperature rise remains within specification when operated in still air; forced airflow or heatsinking may be needed for extended high-temperature operation above +70°C ambient.

Is firmware or software required to operate the MAX17103EVKIT+?

No - the MAX17103EVKIT+ operates entirely in hardware with no firmware, microcontroller, or software dependencies. All functions - including step-up regulation, VCOM amplification, scan driver logic, power sequencing, and fault detection (UVLO, overvoltage, thermal shutdown) - are implemented in analog and mixed-signal circuitry per the MAX17103 IC's architecture. Configuration is done via passive components (resistors, capacitors), making the MAX17103EVKIT+ immediately usable for power validation without host system integration.