Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17231EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17231EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17231 triple-output DC-DC controller IC, enabling rapid prototyping of dual synchronous buck + integrated boost power architectures. It supports input voltage range 2V–36V, delivers fixed 5V/3.3V or adjustable 1V–10V outputs, and validates 92% peak efficiency, 20µA quiescent current in PFM mode, and 180° out-of-phase buck operation - all critical for automotive and industrial point-of-load designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17231EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17231EVKIT# setup guide, MAX17231EVKIT# test configuration, or MAX17231EVKIT# alternative evaluation platforms, this kit provides validated reference schematics, layout files, thermal performance data, and pre-characterized startup/load transient waveforms to accelerate power architecture validation and compliance testing.

Technical Context

The MAX17231EVKIT# implements the full signal chain and power delivery topology of the MAX17231 IC: two independent current-mode synchronous buck controllers (Buck 1: 5V fixed or 1V–10V adjustable; Buck 2: 3.3V fixed or 1V–10V adjustable) plus a non-synchronous boost controller supporting 2V–36V input with programmable output. It replicates the IC's 180° phase shift between buck channels, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and EN1/EN2/EN3 sequenced enable logic.

Hardware-level features include on-board BIAS LDO bypassing, EXTVCC switchover support, FSYNC synchronization input, FOSC frequency-setting resistor network, and dedicated TERM switch control for preboost feedback termination - all configured per Maxim's MAX17231ATLU/V+ reference design and verified against electrical characteristics tables across –40°C to +85°C.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17231EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment power sequencing, industrial PLC I/O module regulation, and distributed telecom supply validation requiring stable component supply, full-temperature-range characterization, and production-ready layout fidelity.

Supply support for MAX17231EVKIT# 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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX17231EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's automotive-grade power management evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate qualification of triple-rail DC-DC architectures in harsh environments with wide input transients and strict EMI requirements.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17231EVKIT#?

The MAX17231EVKIT# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation platform for the MAX17231 triple-output DC-DC controller IC. It enables hardware validation of dual synchronous buck converters (with 180° interleaving) and an integrated boost controller under real-world conditions including load transients, thermal stress, and EMI profiling - directly supporting design-in decisions before custom PCB spin.

Does the MAX17231EVKIT# support both MAX17230 and MAX17231 ICs?

No - the MAX17231EVKIT# is specifically configured for the MAX17231 IC, including its 2.2MHz high-frequency buck operation, FSELBST pin functionality for boost frequency scaling, and ATLU/V+ variant pinout. The MAX17230 uses lower switching frequencies (240kHz–1MHz) and lacks FSELBST support; it is not compatible with this kit's default component selection and layout.

Can the MAX17231EVKIT# be used to validate 1V–10V adjustable output configurations?

Yes - the MAX17231EVKIT# includes populated resistor-divider networks on FB1 and FB2 pins, allowing immediate validation of adjustable 1V–10V outputs. Reference designs confirm stable regulation across this range with ceramic-only output capacitors, and the kit's COMP1/COMP2 compensation networks are pre-tuned for 1V–10V operation per Maxim's application note AN6557.

How does the MAX17231EVKIT# implement preboost functionality?

The MAX17231EVKIT# implements preboost using the MAX17231's integrated boost controller (pins CS3P/CS3N/FB3/INS/TERM/DL3), with on-board resistive dividers setting V_INS,UV = 1.05V and V_FB3 = 1.25V. It validates operation down to 2V input by enabling the boost stage before buck startup, maintaining regulated 5V/3.3V outputs during brownout - confirmed by toc25 and toc26 waveforms in the datasheet.

Is thermal performance data included with the MAX17231EVKIT#?

Yes - the MAX17231EVKIT# documentation includes thermal imaging results and junction temperature measurements across –40°C to +85°C ambient, validating θ_JA = 27°C/W (TQFN-40EP) with proper exposed pad soldering. Test reports show <110°C junction rise at 3A/5V + 3A/3.3V full load, meeting automotive AEC-Q100 Grade 2 thermal limits.