Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17243EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17243EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17243 3.5V–36V, 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated MOSFETs, 2.2MHz switching frequency, ±1% feedback accuracy, and 15µA quiescent current in standby mode. It supports fixed 3.3V/5V or adjustable 1V–10V output, operates down to 99% duty cycle, and targets point-of-load regulation in industrial and distributed power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17243EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17243EVKIT# pinout, MAX17243EVKIT# application, or MAX17243EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of MAX17243 performance under real-world load transients, input voltage drops, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and power sequencing with PGOOD and EN control - critical for automotive infotainment, factory automation, and IoT edge node designs.

Technical Context

The MAX17243EVKIT# implements the MAX17243 IC in a fully assembled, tested 20-pin TQFN (5mm × 5mm) layout with all-ceramic external components: 2.2µH inductor, 4.7µF input cap, dual 22µF output caps, 0.1µF BST cap, and RC compensation network. It supports both PWM (fixed-frequency) and PFM (light-load high-efficiency) operation via FSYNC pin configuration.

Key validated behaviors include 8ms internal soft-start, 42V transient protection on SUP/SUPSW, cycle-by-cycle current limiting up to 6.25A peak, thermal shutdown at 175°C with 15°C hysteresis, and spread-spectrum modulation (±3% fSW) enabled by SPS pin. The board delivers 93% peak efficiency at 3A/5V output with 14V input and 2.2MHz switching.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17243EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, factory control systems, and IoT edge node development requiring stable component supply, fast design validation, and full-feature demonstration of high-efficiency buck conversion.

Supply support for MAX17243EVKIT# 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 industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17242/MAX17243 product line delivers ultra-low-quiescent-current synchronous buck converters for space-constrained, thermally demanding point-of-load applications where efficiency across light-to-full load and robust transient response are essential.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17243EVKIT#?

The MAX17243EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform designed to demonstrate and validate the electrical performance of the MAX17243 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables engineers to measure efficiency, transient response, PGOOD timing, soft-start behavior, and EMI characteristics under real operating conditions - accelerating design-in of the MAX17243 into end equipment without custom prototyping.

Does the MAX17243EVKIT# support both fixed and adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX17243EVKIT# supports both configurations. By default, it is configured for 5V output using the internal 5V feedback reference; jumper options allow reconfiguration to 3.3V. For adjustable outputs (1V–10V), users replace the fixed FB divider with external resistors per the MAX17243 datasheet equation - the board provides test points and routing flexibility to implement custom voltage settings while maintaining stability.

Can the MAX17243EVKIT# operate in PFM mode, and how is it enabled?

Yes, the MAX17243EVKIT# supports PFM mode for high light-load efficiency. PFM is enabled by grounding the FSYNC pin (Pin 20) - this disables synchronization and allows automatic pulse-skipping. The kit includes a solder jumper or test point for FSYNC grounding, and its measured light-load efficiency exceeds 85% at 10mA output, confirming proper PFM entry and exit behavior as specified in the MAX17243 electrical characteristics table.

What thermal performance can be expected from the MAX17243EVKIT# during full-load operation?

Under 3A/5V output at 14V input and 2.2MHz switching, the MAX17243EVKIT# achieves ≤45°C junction rise above ambient (measured per JEDEC JESD51-7 4-layer board standard), consistent with the MAX17243's 30°C/W θJA rating. The exposed pad (EP) is solidly connected to a large copper pour, and thermal shutdown activates only beyond 175°C junction temperature - verified via controlled overload testing with thermal imaging.

How does the MAX17243EVKIT# simplify power sequencing in multi-rail systems?

The MAX17243EVKIT# integrates key sequencing enablers: a precise open-drain PGOOD output (95% rising / 92.5% falling thresholds), a 42V-tolerant EN input with 2.4V logic-high threshold, and programmable soft-start (8ms typical). These features allow direct connection to FPGA or microcontroller power management I/O, enabling coordinated startup/shutdown across multiple rails without external timers or supervisors - validated using oscilloscope capture of EN, PGOOD, and VOUT edges.