Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17545EVKITA#

Overview

MAX17545EVKITA# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17545 4.5V–42V, 1.7A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated MOSFETs, internal compensation, and programmable switching frequency (100kHz–2.2MHz). It supports PWM/PFM/DCM modes, delivers ±1.1% FB regulation over –40°C to +125°C, and enables rapid validation of high-voltage industrial point-of-load designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17545EVKITA# datasheet, MAX17545EVKITA# pinout, MAX17545EVKITA# application, or MAX17545EVKITA# equivalent, this kit provides a fully assembled, tested platform with documented layout, BOM, test points, and configuration jumpers to accelerate prototyping of 5V/3.3V supplies in base station, distributed power, and high-voltage single-board systems.

Technical Context

The MAX17545EVKITA# implements the MAX17545 IC in a fixed 5V output configuration (R3 = 178kΩ, R4 = 39kΩ) using a 10µH shielded inductor (XAL6060), 22µF ceramic output capacitor, and 2.2µF input capacitors. It supports all three operating modes via MODE pin strapping and includes SYNC input for external clock synchronization between 1.1×f_SW and 1.4×f_SW.

Thermal design uses the TQFN-20 (4mm × 4mm) package's exposed pad soldered to a 4-layer PCB with thermal vias and copper pour. The board integrates RESET monitoring (92–95% V_FB window), monotonic startup into prebiased loads, and hiccup-mode overcurrent protection triggered at 0.58V FB or 3.4A runaway current.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17545EVKITA# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, distributed supply regulation, and high-voltage single-board systems requiring stable component supply, fast design validation, and production-ready reference implementation.

Supply support for MAX17545EVKITA# 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 MAX17545 product line delivers high-efficiency, wide-input synchronous buck converters targeting harsh-environment industrial point-of-load regulation where input voltage can exceed 36V and ambient temperature reaches +125°C.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17545EVKITA# evaluation kit?

The MAX17545EVKITA# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX17545 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables engineers to validate 5V/1.7A power delivery, test PWM/PFM/DCM mode behavior, verify thermal performance, and assess RESET timing and hiccup-mode protection-without designing a custom PCB. The MAX17545EVKITA# includes test points, configuration jumpers, and a documented layout aligned with Maxim's best practices.

Can the MAX17545EVKITA# be configured for output voltages other than 5V?

Yes-the MAX17545EVKITA# is based on the MAX17545 IC, which supports adjustable outputs from 0.9V to 0.9×V_IN. While shipped with R3 = 178kΩ and R4 = 39kΩ for 5V, users can replace these resistors to set alternate voltages (e.g., 3.3V requires R3 = 100kΩ, R4 = 39kΩ per FB = 0.9V). The board includes pads and silkscreen for resistor replacement, preserving full flexibility of the underlying MAX17545 device.

Does the MAX17545EVKITA# support external clock synchronization?

Yes-the MAX17545EVKITA# exposes the SYNC pin and includes a 0Ω jumper (J2) to enable external clock injection. When enabled, the MAX17545 IC synchronizes its switching to an external clock within 1.1×f_SW to 1.4×f_SW, with minimum pulse width >50ns. This allows deterministic EMI reduction and multi-rail phase alignment in systems with multiple MAX17545EVKITA# units or other synchronized regulators.

How does the MAX17545EVKITA# handle startup into a prebiased output?

The MAX17545EVKITA# implements monotonic startup into prebiased loads via the MAX17545's built-in logic: both high-side and low-side MOSFETs remain off until the first PWM command, preventing reverse current flow. This ensures safe ramp-up from any initial output voltage (e.g., 2.5V) to the target 5V without sinking current or causing bus contention-critical for hot-swap and redundant power applications using the MAX17545EVKITA#.

What thermal management features are implemented on the MAX17545EVKITA# board?

The MAX17545EVKITA# uses the MAX17545's 4mm × 4mm TQFN-20 package with exposed pad soldered directly to a large internal ground plane and 12 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) connecting to inner and bottom layers. This achieves θ_JA ≈ 33°C/W as specified, enabling continuous 1.7A operation at +70°C ambient. Thermal shutdown (165°C) and hysteresis (10°C) are active, and the board includes test points for junction temperature monitoring during MAX17545EVKITA# validation.