Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17536EVKITB#

Overview

MAX17536EVKITB# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17536 4.5V–60V, 4A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated high-side MOSFET, internal compensation, and programmable switching frequency (100kHz–2.2MHz). It supports 5V/4A and 3.3V/4A output configurations, features PFM/PWM/DCM mode selection, and includes built-in soft-start, RESET monitoring, and EXTVCC auxiliary LDO support for efficiency optimization in industrial power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17536EVKITB# datasheet, MAX17536EVKITB# pinout, MAX17536EVKITB# application, or MAX17536EVKITB# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of the MAX17536's wide-input, high-efficiency buck regulation under real-world load transients, thermal stress, and synchronization conditions - critical for base-station, distributed supply, and high-voltage single-board system designs.

Technical Context

The MAX17536EVKITB# implements the MAX17536 IC in a fully assembled, tested 20-pin TQFN layout with optimized PCB routing for thermal management and EMI control. It integrates all required passive components - including 4.7µH shielded inductor (XAL6060-472ME), dual 22µF/1210 output capacitors, 47µF bulk capacitor, 0.1µF BST capacitor, and 22nF soft-start capacitor - matching the reference design in the MAX17536 datasheet (Rev 2, 6/18).

It supports three operating modes via MODE/SYNC pin configuration (GND = PWM, open = PFM, VCC = DCM), external clock synchronization (1.1×–1.4× f_SW), adjustable UVLO via EN/UVLO resistor divider, and EXTVCC switchover (4.7V threshold) to bypass the internal VCC LDO - enabling direct evaluation of light-load efficiency gains and hiccup-mode overload protection behavior.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17536EVKITB# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, base-station power systems, and high-voltage single-board applications requiring stable component supply, pre-validated thermal performance, and fast-turnaround design verification.

Supply support for MAX17536EVKITB# 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 infrastructure.

The MAX17536 product line delivers robust, wide-input synchronous buck converters for harsh-environment applications - designed specifically for reliability across -40°C to +125°C ambient, with integrated protection and minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17536EVKITB#?

The MAX17536EVKITB# is a fully assembled evaluation kit for the MAX17536 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables hardware validation of the IC's 4.5V–60V input operation, 4A output capability, PFM/PWM/DCM mode behavior, EXTVCC efficiency enhancement, and protection features - without requiring custom PCB design or component sourcing. The MAX17536EVKITB# includes all necessary passives, layout-optimized thermal vias, and test points for immediate bench characterization.

Does the MAX17536EVKITB# support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the MAX17536EVKITB# supports external clock synchronization via the MODE/SYNC pin. When an external clock signal within 1.1× to 1.4× the programmed switching frequency is applied to this pin, the MAX17536 synchronizes its internal oscillator - allowing precise timing alignment in multi-rail systems. The kit provides a dedicated test point and series resistor for clean signal injection, as specified in the MAX17536 datasheet Section "External Frequency Synchronization".

Can the MAX17536EVKITB# be used to evaluate both 5V and 3.3V output configurations?

Yes, the MAX17536EVKITB# is configured for dual-output validation: it ships with a 5V/4A setup (R1=196kΩ, R4=43.2kΩ) and includes footprint options and documentation for reconfiguring to 3.3V/4A (using R1=100kΩ, R4=49.9kΩ per Figure 4). Both configurations maintain full compliance with MAX17536 electrical limits, including minimum on/off times (95ns/140ns) and thermal derating up to +125°C ambient.

How does the MAX17536EVKITB# implement EXTVCC switchover functionality?

The MAX17536EVKITB# implements EXTVCC switchover using a 4.7Ω resistor and 0.1µF capacitor between the buck output and the EXTVCC pin - matching the recommended RC filter in the MAX17536 datasheet. This allows the internal VCC LDO to draw power from the output rail when EXTVCC > 4.7V (typ), reducing power dissipation and improving efficiency at high input voltages. The kit includes solder jumpers to enable or disable EXTVCC connection.

What thermal management features are included on the MAX17536EVKITB# board?

The MAX17536EVKITB# incorporates thermal vias under the exposed pad (EP) connected directly to a large SGND plane, per Maxim's land pattern recommendation (Land Pattern No. 90-0009). It achieves θ_JA = 23°C/W on a four-layer board - validated by thermal imaging during 4A continuous load tests at 60V input. The kit also includes temperature test points near the LX, DL, and EP regions for real-time junction estimation using the datasheet's +150°C max junction rating.