Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17574EVKITB#

Overview

MAX17574EVKITB# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17574 4.5V–60V, 3A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated MOSFETs, peak-current-mode control, and programmable soft-start. It supports adjustable output voltage (0.9V to 90% VIN), 100kHz–2.2MHz switching frequency, ±0.9% FB regulation accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, and operates in PWM/PEM/DCM modes. Designed for rapid prototyping of high-voltage industrial power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17574EVKITB# datasheet, MAX17574EVKITB# pinout, MAX17574EVKITB# application, or MAX17574EVKITB# equivalent, this kit enables functional validation of the MAX17574 IC under real-world load, thermal, and transient conditions - including EN/UVLO threshold tuning, RESET assertion timing verification, soft-start capacitor selection, and EXTVCC bypass optimization.

Technical Context

The MAX17574EVKITB# implements the full reference design for the MAX17574 IC on a multilayer PCB, featuring optimized layout for EMI suppression, thermal vias under the exposed pad, and calibrated component values matching the IC's internal compensation architecture. It includes all critical support circuitry: 0.1µF BST capacitor, 2.2µF VCC bypass, 5600pF soft-start capacitor, RT resistor for 500kHz operation, and feedback divider for 5V output.

This kit validates key operational behaviors: monotonic startup into prebiased loads, hiccup-mode overload recovery, open-drain RESET delay (1024 cycles post-regulation), and seamless EXTVCC-to-VIN LDO switchover during output short-circuit events - all tested across –40°C to +125°C ambient per the IC's qualified operating range.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17574EVKITB# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control power supplies, base station power supplies, and high-voltage single-board systems requiring stable component supply and fast design validation cycles.

Supply support for MAX17574EVKITB# 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17574 product line delivers robust, wide-input-range DC-DC conversion for harsh environments - targeting distributed power architectures where input transients, wide temperature swings, and reliability under overload are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17574EVKITB#?

The MAX17574EVKITB# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit that demonstrates the operation of the MAX17574 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It enables engineers to validate performance parameters-including efficiency, transient response, soft-start behavior, RESET timing, and mode switching-under real-world conditions before integrating the MAX17574 into final designs.

Does the MAX17574EVKITB# support external frequency synchronization?

Yes, the MAX17574EVKITB# supports external clock synchronization via the MODE/SYNC pin. When an external signal between 1.1× and 1.4× the programmed switching frequency is applied, the MAX17574 inside the kit locks to that clock and operates in PWM mode. The kit includes proper termination and routing to maintain signal integrity for sync signals up to 2.2MHz.

Can the MAX17574EVKITB# be used to evaluate EXTVCC bypass functionality?

Yes, the MAX17574EVKITB# includes provisions to connect an external 4.84V–24V supply to the EXTVCC pin, enabling evaluation of the auxiliary LDO switchover feature. The board incorporates the recommended 4.7Ω series resistor and 0.1µF local bypass capacitor to safely test EXTVCC-driven operation and verify improved efficiency at high input voltages.

How does the MAX17574EVKITB# handle overcurrent and thermal faults?

The MAX17574EVKITB# implements the MAX17574's built-in hiccup-mode overcurrent protection and thermal shutdown (165°C trigger, 10°C hysteresis). During overload, the kit cycles ON/OFF with current limiting active, and thermal faults force shutdown until junction temperature falls below 155°C - both behaviors observable via LX waveform and RESET pin state.

Is the MAX17574EVKITB# compatible with prebiased output startup?

Yes, the MAX17574EVKITB# validates monotonic startup into prebiased loads - a key requirement for hot-swap and redundant power systems. When a 2.5V prebias is applied to the output, the kit's MAX17574 initiates soft-start without reverse current or output voltage undershoot, as confirmed by oscilloscope waveforms in the official evaluation kit user guide.