Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17633BEVKIT#

Overview

MAX17633BEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17633B fixed 5V, 3.5A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It supports input voltage range of 4.5V to 36V, operates in PWM/DCM/PFM modes, features integrated MOSFETs, internal compensation, and EXTVCC auxiliary supply-designed for validating power delivery in industrial control and base-station power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17633BEVKIT# datasheet, MAX17633BEVKIT# setup guide, MAX17633BEVKIT# test procedure, or MAX17633BEVKIT# design-in support, this kit enables rapid characterization of efficiency, transient response, thermal performance, and EMI compliance (CISPR 22 Class B) under real-world load and input conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17633BEVKIT# implements the MAX17633B IC in a 20-pin TQFN package with 4mm × 4mm footprint, configured for fixed 5V output. It includes all critical passive components: 6.8µH inductor, dual 22µF output capacitors, 2.2µF input capacitor, 0.1µF BST capacitor, and 5600pF soft-start capacitor-optimized for stable operation across -40°C to +125°C ambient.

Board-level features include accessible test points for IN, VOUT, LX, FB, EN/UVLO, MODE/SYNC, RESET, and SS; exposed pad thermal vias; and jumper-selectable EN/UVLO configuration (always-on or resistor-divider). The kit supports external clock synchronization (1.1×–1.4× fSW) and prebiased soft-start validation.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17633BEVKIT# 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 MAX17633BEVKIT# 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 MAX17633BEVKIT# belongs to the Himalaya power regulator family, engineered to deliver cooler, smaller, and simpler DC-DC solutions for high-input-voltage industrial and telecom infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17633BEVKIT#?

The MAX17633BEVKIT# is an evaluation kit for the MAX17633B synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform to validate electrical performance-including efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and EMI-under real operating conditions. The kit implements the fixed 5V output variant and includes all necessary passives, test points, and thermal design features required for rapid prototyping and qualification.

Does the MAX17633BEVKIT# support adjustable output voltage?

No-the MAX17633BEVKIT# is specifically configured for the MAX17633B variant, which delivers a fixed 5V output. While the MAX17633C variant supports adjustable output (0.9V to 90% VIN), the MAX17633BEVKIT# uses a direct FB-to-VOUT connection and lacks the external resistor divider required for adjustable operation. Its feedback network is optimized for 5V regulation with ±1.3% accuracy across temperature.

Can the MAX17633BEVKIT# be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes-the MAX17633BEVKIT# supports external clock synchronization via the MODE/SYNC pin. When an external clock signal (1.1×–1.4× the nominal switching frequency, ≥50ns pulse width) is applied, the MAX17633B enters synchronized PWM mode. This capability is validated on the board with accessible MODE/SYNC test points and is documented in the MAX17633B datasheet's Electrical Characteristics table and Typical Operating Characteristics figures.

What thermal performance can be expected from the MAX17633BEVKIT#?

The MAX17633BEVKIT# achieves θJA = 26°C/W on a four-layer board, as specified in the MAX17633 datasheet. Its exposed pad (EP) is soldered to a large SGND plane with multiple thermal vias, enabling reliable operation up to 3.5A continuous load at +70°C ambient. Derating begins above +70°C at 30.3mW/°C, supporting junction temperatures up to +150°C with proper airflow or heatsinking.

Is CISPR 22 Class B compliance verified for the MAX17633BEVKIT#?

Yes-radiated EMI testing per CISPR 22 Class B was performed on the functionally identical MAX17633CEVKIT#, whose layout, component selection, and PCB stack-up match the MAX17633BEVKIT#. The test report (Figure 46, datasheet page 11) confirms compliance across 30MHz–1000MHz with margin, validating the board-level EMI mitigation design-including input filtering, layout symmetry, and ground plane integrity-for both variants.