Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17244EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17244EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17244 3.5V–36V, 2.5A synchronous buck converter with integrated MOSFETs, 28µA quiescent current, and reduced EMI. It supports fixed 3.3V/5V or adjustable 1V–10V outputs, operates in PWM/FPWM/PEM modes, and features power-good signaling, 180° out-of-phase SYNCOUT, and 42V transient protection.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17244EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17244EVKIT# setup guide, MAX17244EVKIT# test procedure, or MAX17244EVKIT# compatible IC alternatives, this kit enables rapid validation of the MAX17244's high-efficiency step-down regulation across 3.5V–36V input, 2.5A load, and 220kHz–2.2MHz switching frequency range under real-world thermal, transient, and EMI-constrained conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17244EVKIT# implements the MAX17244 IC in a fully assembled, tested configuration with 2.2µH inductor, 22µF output capacitor, 4.7µF input capacitors, 1µF BIAS bypass, 0.1µF BST capacitor, and resistor networks for FB, PGOOD, SYNCOUT, and FOSC. It supports both TQFN and TSSOP package variants of the MAX17244 and includes provisions for snubber (RSNUB/CSNUB) under high-VIN, low-VOUT, high-frequency PWM operation.

Key design elements include AGND/PGND separation, exposed-pad thermal management, 100Ω SYNCOUT pull-up, 10kΩ PGOOD pull-up, 12kΩ FOSC setting for 2.2MHz operation, and jumper-selectable EN/FOSC/FSYNC configurations to evaluate startup behavior, synchronization, and mode control without soldering.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17244EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for distributed supply regulation, wall transformer replacement, and general-purpose point-of-load applications requiring stable component supply, fast design validation, and production-ready reference schematics.

Supply support for MAX17244EVKIT# 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, designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX17244 product line delivers high-efficiency, wide-input synchronous buck converters targeting space-constrained, thermally demanding, and EMI-sensitive power supplies in automotive infotainment, industrial PLCs, and RF transceiver subsystems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17244EVKIT#?

The MAX17244EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX17244 synchronous buck converter IC. It enables engineers to validate performance-including efficiency, transient response, EMI, and power sequencing-under real operating conditions. The kit includes all critical passive components, jumpers for mode selection, and test points aligned with the MAX17244's pinout, allowing direct measurement of VIN, VOUT, LX, PGOOD, and SYNCOUT signals without modification.

Does the MAX17244EVKIT# support both fixed and adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX17244EVKIT# supports both configurations. By default, it is configured for 5V output using the internal feedback connection between FB and BIAS. To evaluate adjustable outputs (1V–10V), users replace the FB-to-BIAS jumper with an external resistive divider from OUT to FB to AGND. The kit's layout accommodates standard 0603/0805 resistors and includes silk-screened formulas for RFB1/RFB2 calculation per the MAX17244 datasheet.

How does the MAX17244EVKIT# implement EMI reduction features?

The MAX17244EVKIT# demonstrates two key EMI-reduction techniques: integrated spread-spectrum modulation (±6% frequency dithering centered on 2.2MHz) and automatic LX slew-rate control. The kit's PCB layout minimizes loop area for high-current paths (LX–PGND–CIN), uses solid ground planes beneath sensitive analog traces (FB, COMP, AGND), and includes optional snubber pads (RSNUB/CSNUB) for high-dV/dt suppression when operating above 25V input and below 5V output at ≥1.8MHz.

Can the MAX17244EVKIT# be used to evaluate synchronization between multiple MAX17244 devices?

Yes. The MAX17244EVKIT# exposes the SYNCOUT pin as a dedicated test point and provides a 100Ω series resistor to drive another MAX17244's FSYNC input. With the onboard 12kΩ FOSC resistor setting 2.2MHz operation, SYNCOUT delivers a clean 180° out-of-phase clock signal. This allows cascaded power supplies to be built-e.g., two kits synchronized to deliver interleaved 5V/2.5A rails with reduced input/output ripple and improved thermal distribution.

What thermal management provisions are included in the MAX17244EVKIT# design?

The MAX17244EVKIT# incorporates thermal design best practices: the MAX17244 IC is mounted on a large copper pour connected to PGND via multiple thermal vias, the exposed pad (EP) is soldered directly to this plane, and high-power components (inductor L1, input/output capacitors) are placed to avoid stacking heat sources. The board uses 2oz copper on inner layers and thermal reliefs on PGND pads to sustain 2.5A continuous load at +85°C ambient without derating, matching the MAX17244's specified junction temperature limit of +150°C.