Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17551ATBEVKIT#

Overview

The MAX17551ATBEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17551 60V, 50mA synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated MOSFETs, peak-current-mode control, and 22µA no-load quiescent current. It supports input voltages from 4V to 60V, adjustable output from 0.8V to 0.9×VIN, and switching frequencies from 100kHz to 2.2MHz. The kit enables rapid validation of high-efficiency power conversion in industrial sensor and battery-powered applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# datasheet, MAX17551ATBEVKIT# pinout, MAX17551ATBEVKIT# application, or MAX17551ATBEVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides a fully assembled, tested reference design with documented bill-of-materials (Coilcraft LPS5030-334M, Murata GRM21BR70J106K, GRM31CR72A105K), validated layout, and performance characterization across temperature and load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17551ATBEVKIT# implements the MAX17551 IC in a fixed 5V, 50mA configuration using peak-current-mode control with programmable soft-start (5.1ms default), PFM/PWM mode selection, and internal compensation. It features built-in output voltage monitoring via open-drain RESET, monotonic startup into prebiased loads, and EN/UVLO threshold programming.

This evaluation kit demonstrates the IC's key operational behaviors: 90%+ peak efficiency at full load, <22µA no-load supply current in PFM mode, 1.2µA shutdown current, ±1.75% FB regulation accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, and robust protection including peak current limit, thermal shutdown (160°C), and hiccup-mode short-circuit response.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAX17551ATBEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, HVAC controllers, and battery-powered IoT edge devices requiring stable component supply and fast prototyping support.

Supply support for MAX17551ATBEVKIT# 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17551 product line delivers ultra-small, high-efficiency synchronous buck converters targeting space- and power-constrained systems where wide input range, low quiescent current, and robust operation are critical.

FAQ

What is the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# used for?

The MAX17551ATBEVKIT# is an evaluation kit for the MAX17551 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It provides a ready-to-use hardware platform to validate the IC's performance-including efficiency, transient response, soft-start behavior, and protection features-under real-world conditions such as 4V–60V input, 5V/50mA output, and –40°C to +125°C ambient operation. Engineers use it to accelerate design-in before committing to custom PCB layouts.

Does the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# include the MAX17551 IC?

Yes, the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# includes a populated MAX17551 IC in the 10-pin TDFN package (3mm × 2mm). The board integrates all required external components: Coilcraft LPS5030-334M inductor, Murata GRM21BR70J106K (10µF/6.3V) output capacitor, Murata GRM31CR72A105K (1µF/100V) input capacitor, and supporting resistors and capacitors per the typical application circuit in the MAX17551 datasheet.

Can the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# be used to evaluate different output voltages?

Yes-the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# is configured for 5V output by default, but its feedback resistor divider (R1 = 261kΩ, R2 = 49.9kΩ) can be modified to set any output between 0.8V and 0.9×VIN. The board includes test points for FB, VOUT, and GND, enabling quick reconfiguration and measurement. The MAX17551's internal compensation maintains stability across the full output voltage range without loop compensation changes.

What switching frequency does the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# operate at?

The MAX17551ATBEVKIT# operates at 300kHz, set by the 140kΩ resistor (R3) connected from RT/SYNC to GND. This frequency balances inductor size, efficiency, and EMI performance. The kit also supports external synchronization (via coupling capacitor to RT/SYNC) and user-defined frequencies from 100kHz to 2.2MHz by changing the RT resistor value, as specified in the MAX17551 datasheet.

Does the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# support PFM and PWM modes?

Yes-the MAX17551ATBEVKIT# supports both PFM and PWM operation via the MODE pin. By default, MODE is unconnected, enabling automatic light-load PFM mode for >90% efficiency at 1–10mA loads. Grounding MODE forces fixed-frequency PWM mode across all loads-ideal for noise-sensitive applications requiring deterministic switching frequency. Both modes are validated on the kit with documented transient waveforms and efficiency curves.