Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17521EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX17521EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17521 dual-output, 60V-input, synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC. It supports independent 5V/1A and 3.3V/1A outputs, features pin-selectable 300kHz or 560kHz switching, ±1.7% output voltage regulation over –40°C to +125°C, and enables PFM/PWM mode selection per channel - used for validating industrial power supply designs with prebias startup, hiccup-mode protection, and output sequencing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17521EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17521EVKIT# pinout, MAX17521EVKIT# application, or MAX17521EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full hardware validation of the MAX17521 IC's dual-channel regulation, soft-start tracking (coincident/ratiometric/sequential), RESET monitoring, and thermal shutdown behavior under real load, line, and temperature conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17521EVKIT# implements the MAX17521 IC in a fully assembled, tested 24-pin TQFN layout with discrete external components including XAL5050-223 (22µH) and XAL4040-153 (15µH) inductors, all-ceramic input/output capacitors, and precision feedback resistors. It supports independent EN/UVLO, MODE, SS, and RESET pins per channel, enabling flexible configuration of startup timing, operating mode (PFM/PWM), and fault response.

Each channel integrates high-side pMOS (0.8Ω @ 25°C) and low-side nMOS (0.35Ω @ 25°C) switches, peak-current-mode control with slope compensation, and transconductance error amplifiers (590µS typ). The board accepts 7.5V–60V input and delivers regulated outputs with <±10mV load regulation at 1A and <±5mV line regulation across 8V–48V input.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAX17521EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control power supplies, CPU/DSP/FPGA core voltage regulation, distributed supply regulation, and general-purpose point-of-load applications requiring stable component supply and rapid design validation.

Supply support for MAX17521EVKIT# 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17521 product line delivers rugged, wide-input dual buck regulators targeting harsh-environment power systems where input voltage up to 60V, extended temperature operation, and reliable fault recovery are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17521EVKIT#?

The MAX17521EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX17521 dual-output synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables engineers to validate the IC's performance-including 5V/1A and 3.3V/1A regulation, PFM/PWM mode switching, soft-start sequencing, hiccup-mode overload protection, and RESET signaling-under real-world input, load, and thermal conditions before committing to production design.

Does the MAX17521EVKIT# support prebiased output startup?

Yes, the MAX17521EVKIT# demonstrates monotonic startup into prebiased loads for both channels, as implemented by the underlying MAX17521 IC. When enabled, the kit safely starts with VOUT already charged (e.g., 2.5V on Channel 1 or 2V on Channel 2), avoiding reverse current flow or output voltage undershoot - confirmed in typical operating characteristics TOC12 and TOC13.

How is switching frequency configured on the MAX17521EVKIT#?

Switching frequency on the MAX17521EVKIT# is set via the FSEL pin: left unconnected for 560kHz operation or tied to SGND for 300kHz operation. This matches the MAX17521 IC's specification, and the kit's layout includes test points and jumpers to facilitate quick reconfiguration without soldering.

Can the MAX17521EVKIT# be used to evaluate output voltage sequencing?

Yes, the MAX17521EVKIT# supports three sequencing modes - independent, coincident, and ratiometric - using the SS1 and SS2 pins. By connecting these pins to external resistor dividers or other supply rails, users can validate controlled ramp-up of VOUT1 and VOUT2, as shown in Figures 1–3 of the MAX17521 datasheet and demonstrated in TOC14–TOC16 waveforms.

What protection features are validated by the MAX17521EVKIT#?

The MAX17521EVKIT# validates all key protections of the MAX17521 IC: hiccup-mode response to short-circuit (TOC29/TOC30), thermal shutdown at 165°C, dual-channel RESET assertion below 92.5% VOUT, and EN/UVLO threshold control (1.215V rising, 1.135V falling). These are exercised using onboard test points, load switches, and thermal probes per the evaluation kit user guide.