Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17227AEVK#WLP

Overview

MAX17227AEVK#WLP from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17227A nanoPower synchronous boost converter, designed to validate operation of the 6-bump WLP-packaged IC in ultra-low-power battery systems. It supports adjustable output voltages from 2.3V to 5.5V, delivers up to 2A peak inductor current, and enables True Shutdown™ with 1nA input shutdown current - critical for wearables and IoT sensors requiring multi-year battery life.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17227AEVK#WLP datasheet, MAX17227AEVK#WLP pinout, MAX17227AEVK#WLP application, or MAX17227AEVK#WLP equivalent, this kit provides a production-representative platform to verify startup at 880mV input, PFM-mode efficiency ≥90% at 500μA load, short-circuit protection response, and RSEL resistor-based voltage programming across -40°C to +125°C operation.

Technical Context

The MAX17227AEVK#WLP implements the full reference design for the MAX17227A WLP variant, including 22μF X7R input/output capacitors, a 1.0μH shielded inductor, and optimized PCB layout per Maxim Application Note 1891. It validates the adaptive on-time PFM control scheme that transitions between Ultra-Low-Power Mode (ULPM), Low-Power Mode (LPM), and High-Power Mode (HPM) based on load current - enabling 350nA quiescent current into VOUT while maintaining 96% peak efficiency.

This kit directly demonstrates True Shutdown functionality: complete output disconnection from input with no forward/reverse current path, validated under precharged output conditions and reverse-bias scenarios (VOUT > VIN). It also confirms cycle-by-cycle inductor current limiting, thermal shutdown at 165°C, and short-circuit detection when VOUT drops >1V below VIN.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17227AEVK#WLP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable audio, near-band IoT sensor nodes, and clinical instrumentation requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping validation, and production-ready reference design fidelity.

Supply support for MAX17227AEVK#WLP 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 battery-constrained and thermally sensitive applications.

The MAX17227A product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power boost conversion in space- and energy-limited systems - delivering nanoscale quiescent current, True Shutdown, and wide-input-range operation without compromising transient response or protection integrity.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MAX17227AEVK#WLP evaluation kit?

The MAX17227AEVK#WLP is a fully assembled, tested evaluation platform for the MAX17227A nanoPower boost converter in its 6-bump WLP package. It enables engineers to validate key performance metrics - including 880mV startup, 350nA quiescent current into VOUT, True Shutdown behavior, RSEL-based voltage programming, and short-circuit/thermal protection - using the exact layout, component selection, and thermal profile specified in Maxim's Application Note 1891.

Does the MAX17227AEVK#WLP support both WLP and TDFN packages of the MAX17227A?

No. The MAX17227AEVK#WLP is specifically configured for the 1.58mm × 0.89mm, 6-bump WLP (N60O1+1) variant of the MAX17227A. It uses the precise land pattern, thermal pad connection, and routing guidelines defined for that package in Maxim's Package Outline 21-100390. A separate evaluation board (e.g., MAX17227AEVK#TDFN) is required for the 2mm × 2mm TDFN version.

Can the MAX17227AEVK#WLP demonstrate True Shutdown with a precharged output capacitor?

Yes. The MAX17227AEVK#WLP validates True Shutdown™ under real-world conditions: when EN is pulled low, the MAX17227A disconnects VOUT from VIN completely - allowing the output to remain biased at any voltage (including ground or >VIN) with only 1nA leakage from VIN and no reverse current flow. This behavior is confirmed using the onboard test points and matches the functional diagram in the MAX17227A datasheet Figure 13.

How does the MAX17227AEVK#WLP verify the RSEL resistor-based output voltage selection?

The MAX17227AEVK#WLP includes solder pads and test points for installing standard 1% resistors per Table 1 of the MAX17227A datasheet (e.g., 191kΩ for 3.3V, 10.0kΩ for 5.0V). It validates correct acquisition of RSEL value within 600μs (tRSEL), accurate output regulation (±1% in LPM, +1.5% to +4.6% in ULPM), and proper disablement of ULPM when RSEL = 0Ω (5.5V) or 4.99kΩ (5.4V).

What thermal performance can be expected from the MAX17227AEVK#WLP during continuous 2A peak operation?

Under continuous heavy load (e.g., 500mA at 5V output from 1.5V input), the MAX17227AEVK#WLP achieves junction temperatures ≤110°C on a four-layer board - well below the 165°C thermal shutdown threshold. This aligns with the WLP package's θJA of 95.15°C/W and confirms the board's adherence to Maxim's thermal guidelines, including exposed-pad grounding and minimal copper isolation around LX/GND nodes.