Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17233EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17233EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17233 dual synchronous step-down DC-DC controller IC, supporting input voltages from 3.5V to 36V with 42V transient protection, fixed 5V/3.3V or adjustable 1V–10V outputs per channel, and 180° out-of-phase operation to reduce output ripple. It enables rapid validation of high-efficiency power rail design in industrial and embedded systems requiring dual regulated supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17233EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17233EVKIT# pinout, MAX17233EVKIT# application, or MAX17233EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full hardware reference implementation-including layout-optimized PCB, pre-populated components, test points, and jumper-configurable EN/FSYNC/FB settings-to accelerate development of 2.2MHz dual-buck power stages with PFM/PWM mode selection, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and thermal-safe operation up to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX17233EVKIT# implements the MAX17233 controller in a fully assembled TQFN-28 (5mm × 5mm) evaluation platform, featuring independent enable (EN1/EN2), external sync (FSYNC), frequency setting (FOSC), and power-good (PGOOD1/PGOOD2) interfaces. It supports both fixed-output (5V/3.3V) and resistor-programmable (1V–10V) configurations per buck stage, with 180° phase shift and optional spread-spectrum modulation enabled by default.

Hardware design includes ceramic-input/output capacitors, DCR-based current sensing, bootstrap networks (BST1/BST2), and RC compensation on COMP1/COMP2-validated for stable operation across 200kHz–2.2MHz switching frequencies. The board integrates EXTVCC switchover capability and thermal monitoring circuitry aligned with the IC's -40°C to +85°C operating range and 170°C thermal shutdown threshold.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17233EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, embedded system prototyping, and automotive subsystem testing requiring stable component supply, fast turnaround, and full design support documentation.

Supply support for MAX17233EVKIT# 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 ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17233 product line delivers dual synchronous buck controllers optimized for compact, high-efficiency point-of-load regulation in space-constrained systems-designed to replace discrete DC-DC solutions with integrated gate drivers, current-mode control, and robust fault protection.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17233EVKIT#?

The MAX17233EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX17233 dual synchronous step-down DC-DC controller. It enables engineers to validate power stage performance-including efficiency, transient response, soft-start behavior, and PFM/PWM mode switching-without designing custom PCBs. The kit includes all critical passive components, test points, and configuration jumpers to exercise the full feature set of the MAX17233 IC under real-world load and input conditions.

Does the MAX17233EVKIT# support both fixed and adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX17233EVKIT# supports both fixed and adjustable output configurations. By default, Buck 1 delivers 5V and Buck 2 delivers 3.3V using internal feedback dividers tied to the BIAS rail. For adjustable outputs (1V–10V), users can reconfigure FB1/FB2 connections via onboard jumpers to external resistor dividers. The kit's schematic and layout accommodate either mode without component changes.

How does the MAX17233EVKIT# implement spread-spectrum modulation?

The MAX17233EVKIT# enables spread-spectrum modulation by default through the MAX17233 IC's internal ±6% dithering of the switching frequency-activated when FSYNC is left unconnected or grounded. This reduces peak EMI emissions at the fundamental switching frequency and its harmonics. When an external clock is applied to FSYNC, spread-spectrum is automatically disabled per the IC's specification, allowing deterministic synchronization.

Can the MAX17233EVKIT# be used to evaluate thermal performance?

Yes, the MAX17233EVKIT# is thermally optimized for evaluation: it features a large copper-pour ground plane, direct connection of the IC's exposed pad (EP) to PGND, and thermal vias beneath the MAX17233. The board supports continuous operation at full load within the -40°C to +85°C ambient range and demonstrates thermal shutdown recovery per the IC's 170°C junction limit and 20°C hysteresis-verified using IR imaging and thermocouple measurements during sustained 10A-per-rail testing.

What are the key differences between the MAX17233EVKIT# and the MAX17232EVKIT#?

The MAX17233EVKIT# is specifically configured for the MAX17233 controller (1MHz–2.2MHz frequency range), while the MAX17232EVKIT# targets the MAX17232 (200kHz–1MHz). Key hardware differences include optimized FOSC resistor values, adjusted compensation networks for stability across their respective frequency bands, and distinct spread-spectrum enablement-only the MAX17233EVKIT# includes factory-enabled ±6% dithering. Both kits share identical layout topology, pinout mapping, and dual-buck architecture.