Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17548EVKIT#

Overview

MAX17548EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17548 dual-output synchronous step-down controller, designed to validate 42V-input, dual-rail DC/DC power designs with independent 10A outputs or combined 20A single output. It supports peak-current-mode control up to 2.2MHz, RSENSE or DCR current sensing, and 180° out-of-phase operation to reduce input ripple-targeted at industrial programmable logic controllers and motion control systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17548EVKIT# datasheet, MAX17548EVKIT# setup guide, MAX17548EVKIT# test procedures, or MAX17548EVKIT# compatibility with MAX17548 controller ICs, this kit provides fully assembled, tested hardware with reference schematics, layout files, and design documentation to accelerate validation of high-voltage, high-current buck controller implementations under real thermal and transient load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17548EVKIT# implements the MAX17548 controller in a dual-phase configuration driving external nMOSFETs, supporting both independent regulation (e.g., 5V/3.3V) and interleaved 20A single-output modes. It incorporates selectable PWM/DCM operation via SKIP pin, independent soft-start (SS1/SS2), and phase-shift control (SEL_PH) to optimize EMI and input capacitor stress.

Hardware features include pre-populated 32-pin TQFN-EP footprint matching the MAX17548's pinout, bootstrap circuitry with Schottky diodes, VCCEXT support for VCCINT sourcing, and dedicated test points for CS+, CS−, COMP, PGOOD, and LX nodes-enabling full loop stability analysis, current-limit verification, and transient response characterization per IEC 61000-4-4/6.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17548EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, distributed DC systems, motion control platforms, and programmable logic controller development requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping validation.

Supply support for MAX17548EVKIT# 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 MAX17548 product line delivers rugged, wide-input synchronous buck controllers for harsh industrial environments-designed to replace discrete power stage designs with integrated gate drivers, current sensing, and protection logic in a compact 5mm × 5mm TQFN package.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17548EVKIT#?

The MAX17548EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX17548 dual-output synchronous step-down controller. It enables engineers to validate power stage performance-including efficiency, transient response, phase interleaving, and protection behavior-under real-world input voltage (4.5V–42V), load (up to 20A), and temperature (−40°C to +125°C) conditions before committing to custom PCB design. The kit includes all necessary passive components, MOSFETs, and test points aligned to the MAX17548's functional blocks.

Does the MAX17548EVKIT# support both PWM and DCM operating modes?

Yes, the MAX17548EVKIT# supports both PWM and DCM modes via the SKIP pin configuration on the onboard MAX17548 IC. Connecting SKIP to VCCINT enables fixed-frequency PWM operation for low-noise, constant-frequency applications; applying a voltage between 1.25V and VCCINT − 1.5V configures DCM mode to improve light-load efficiency. The kit's jumper options and test points allow immediate mode switching and direct measurement of inductor current waveforms in both modes as shown in Figures toc03–toc04 of the MAX17548 datasheet.

Can the MAX17548EVKIT# be used to evaluate interleaved (dual-phase) operation?

Yes, the MAX17548EVKIT# is configured by default for interleaved dual-phase operation using the SEL_PH pin to enforce 180° phase shift between the two controllers-reducing input capacitor RMS current and EMI. Oscilloscope measurements at LX1 and LX2 (pins 17 and 8) confirm precise anti-phase switching as demonstrated in Figures toc23–toc24. The board layout maintains matched trace lengths and independent gate-drive paths to preserve timing integrity across both phases.

What thermal management provisions does the MAX17548EVKIT# include?

The MAX17548EVKIT# implements JEDEC-compliant thermal design: the MAX17548's exposed pad is soldered to a large internal copper plane with ≥6 thermal vias connected to inner ground layers, achieving θJA ≈ 29°C/W (multilayer board). Power MOSFETs are mounted with thermal pads and airflow-compatible placement. The kit's validated thermal performance supports continuous 20A operation at +70°C ambient, with thermal shutdown triggering at +160°C junction temperature as specified in the MAX17548 Electrical Characteristics table.

Is the MAX17548EVKIT# compatible with other Maxim buck controllers?

No-the MAX17548EVKIT# is specifically designed for the MAX17548 and is not mechanically or electrically compatible with other controllers such as the MAX17558 or MAX20096. Its PCB layout, component values (e.g., RT resistor, SS capacitors, bootstrap diodes), and firmware-free operation are optimized for the MAX17548's pinout, gate-drive strength, current-sense architecture, and protection thresholds. Substituting another IC would require redesign of gate-drive networks, compensation, and current-limit scaling.