Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17644AEVKIT#

Overview

MAX17644AEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX17644A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in 3.3V output applications. It delivers up to 2.7A at fixed 3.3V output, operates over 4.5V–36V input range, switches at 500kHz, achieves 87.28% efficiency at 24V_IN/3.3V_OUT/2.7A, and complies with CISPR32 Class B conducted/radiated emissions.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17644AEVKIT# datasheet, MAX17644AEVKIT# pinout, MAX17644AEVKIT# application, or MAX17644AEVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of high-voltage DC-DC converter performance-including PWM/DCM/PFM mode selection, adjustable soft-start, UVLO programming, external clock synchronization, and RESET monitoring-in industrial power supplies, embedded systems, and test equipment.

Technical Context

The MAX17644AEVKIT# integrates the MAX17644A IC (16-pin TQFN, 3mm×3mm) configured for fixed 3.3V output with 500kHz switching frequency. Input voltage range is 4.5V to 36V, and maximum continuous output current is 2.7A under thermal limits.

It supports three operating modes via jumper JU102 (PWM, PFM, DCM), features resistor-programmable EN/UVLO (default rising threshold = 4.4V), adjustable soft-start (via C106 = 5600pF for ~1ms), open-drain RESET output (active-low, 95%/92% V_OUT thresholds), and external clock synchronization capability on MODE/SYNC pin.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17644AEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply design, embedded system prototyping, and DC-DC converter qualification requiring stable component supply and pre-validated reference hardware.

Supply support for MAX17644AEVKIT# 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17644AEVKIT# belongs to the Himalaya high-voltage DC-DC evaluation kit family, engineered to accelerate development of compact, high-efficiency power supplies in space-constrained and EMI-sensitive environments.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the MAX17644AEVKIT#?

The MAX17644AEVKIT# is a ready-to-use evaluation platform for the MAX17644A synchronous buck converter. It enables engineers to verify 3.3V/2.7A power delivery performance, test mode selection (PWM/DCM/PFM), validate soft-start behavior, assess RESET timing, and evaluate EMI compliance-without designing custom PCBs. The MAX17644AEVKIT# includes all critical passives, layout-optimized thermal and EMI design, and jumpers for configuration.

Does the MAX17644AEVKIT# support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the MAX17644AEVKIT# provides dedicated MODE/SYNC PCB pads and leaves jumper JU102 uninstalled by default to enable external clock synchronization. When a valid external clock signal (e.g., 550kHz) is applied, the MAX17644A operates in PWM mode only. This feature allows precise timing alignment in multi-rail systems and reduces beat-frequency noise-verified in oscilloscope waveforms (toc49) on the MAX17644AEVKIT#.

How is undervoltage lockout (UVLO) configured on the MAX17644AEVKIT#?

On the MAX17644AEVKIT#, UVLO is set by resistive divider R101 (3.32MΩ) and R102 (1.37MΩ), yielding a default rising threshold of 4.4V. Jumper JU101 must remain open for UVLO operation; installing a shunt on pins 2–3 disables the converter. The MAX17644AEVKIT# also supports external enable/disable control via the EN/UVLO1 pad when JU101 is open.

What output voltage accuracy and regulation does the MAX17644AEVKIT# achieve?

The MAX17644AEVKIT# maintains 3.3V output within ±1.5% across full line (4.5V–36V) and load (0–2.7A) conditions in PWM mode. Measured data shows output voltage variation of only ~60mV (3.27V–3.33V) under worst-case combinations (toc10), confirming tight regulation enabled by the MAX17644A's internal feedback loop and optimized compensation network on the MAX17644AEVKIT# PCB.

Can the MAX17644AEVKIT# be used to evaluate transient response?

Yes-the MAX17644AEVKIT# includes documented load transient waveforms (toc34–toc37) showing V_OUT deviation under step changes (e.g., 0→1A, 1.7A→2.7A, 0.054A→1A) in PWM, DCM, and PFM modes. These measurements confirm <100mV undershoot/overshoot and fast recovery (<200µs), validating dynamic performance for real-world applications like FPGA core rails or microcontroller power domains using the MAX17644AEVKIT#.