Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17524EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17524EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17524 dual 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC, designed to validate operation of both channels under 4.5V–60V input, 0.9V–54V output, and up to 3A per channel with peak efficiency of 94.4%. It supports PWM, PFM, and DCM modes, internal compensation, and independent soft-start/enable/RESET per channel - used for rapid prototyping of industrial power supplies and high-voltage point-of-load designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17524EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17524EVKIT# pinout, MAX17524EVKIT# application, or MAX17524EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables functional validation of dual-output high-voltage buck regulation, external clock synchronization (495kHz–630kHz), hiccup-mode overload protection, monotonic startup with prebiased outputs, and RESET assertion based on ±1.4% FB regulation accuracy across –40°C to +125°C.

Technical Context

The MAX17524EVKIT# implements the full reference design for the MAX17524 IC, including dual 32-pin TQFN layout with separate IN1/IN2, PGND1/PGND2, and SGND planes; integrated 0.1μF BST capacitors; 2.2μF VCC bypassing; and RC-filtered EXTVCC connections to improve light-load efficiency. It supports all operating modes (PWM/PEM/DCM) via MODE/SYNC pins and provides access to all critical nodes: FB1/FB2, SS1/SS2, RESET1/RESET2, RT, CF1/CF2, and LX1/LX2.

Designed per Maxim's EV kit guidelines, the board includes thermal vias under the exposed pad, optimized inductor placement for low EMI, and test points for load transient analysis (0A→3A), startup sequencing (coincident/sequential/ratiometric), and radiated emissions testing (CISPR-22 Class B compliant). It ships with preinstalled components matching the typical operating conditions in the MAX17524 datasheet (e.g., R_RT = open for 450kHz f_SW).

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17524EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control power supplies, base station power supplies, high-voltage single-board systems, and distributed supply regulation requiring stable component supply during design validation and pre-production testing.

Supply support for MAX17524EVKIT# 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 MAX17524EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's high-voltage DC-DC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate development of robust, efficient, and thermally optimized dual-output power supplies for harsh industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17524EVKIT#?

The MAX17524EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation kit for the MAX17524 dual 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables engineers to verify electrical performance-including efficiency (up to 94.4%), load/transient response, startup sequencing, and protection features-under real-world conditions before final system integration. The MAX17524EVKIT# includes all necessary passive components, test points, and layout optimizations aligned with Maxim's reference design guidelines.

Does the MAX17524EVKIT# support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the MAX17524EVKIT# supports external clock synchronization for both channels via the MODE/SYNC1 and MODE/SYNC2 pins. It has been validated with 495kHz and 630kHz external clocks, maintaining stable operation and phase margin (>64°) in PWM mode at 3A load. The kit provides dedicated test points and routing to inject sync signals without affecting noise-sensitive analog nodes like FB or SS.

Can the MAX17524EVKIT# be used to evaluate prebiased startup behavior?

Yes, the MAX17524EVKIT# demonstrates monotonic startup with prebiased output voltage, as confirmed by oscilloscope waveforms in the MAX17524 datasheet (Figures 18–19). It supports evaluation of both converters independently or in tracking modes (coincident, sequential, ratiometric) while maintaining regulated output even when V_OUT is initially biased to 1.65V or 2.5V - critical for hot-swap and FPGA power sequencing applications.

What protection features are validated on the MAX17524EVKIT#?

The MAX17524EVKIT# validates hiccup-mode overload protection, overtemperature shutdown (165°C trigger, 10°C hysteresis), independent RESET assertion per channel (based on 92.5% FB undervoltage trip), and soft-start control via SS1/SS2 pins. Load transient tests (0A↔3A) and short-circuit duration testing confirm continuous operation under fault conditions, as specified in the MAX17524 absolute maximum ratings.

Is the MAX17524EVKIT# RoHS-compliant and suitable for industrial temperature operation?

Yes, the MAX17524EVKIT# uses RoHS-compliant components and PCB fabrication, consistent with the MAX17524 IC's -40°C to +125°C ambient operating range. Thermal performance has been characterized per the kit's 4-layer board layout, achieving θ_JA = 23°C/W - enabling reliable operation at full 3A load per channel across the full industrial temperature range when mounted with adequate airflow or heatsinking.