Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17690EVKITA#

Overview

MAX17690EVKITA# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17690 peak-current-mode, no-opto isolated flyback controller IC. It supports 4.5V–60V input, 50kHz–250kHz programmable switching frequency, primary-side output voltage regulation without optocoupler or auxiliary winding, 2A/4A gate drive, and operates from –40°C to +125°C in a 3mm × 3mm TQFN-16 package. It enables rapid prototyping of isolated DC-DC supplies for industrial and telecom power systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17690EVKITA# datasheet, MAX17690EVKITA# pinout, MAX17690EVKITA# application, or MAX17690EVKITA# equivalent, this evaluation kit provides validated reference design, component-level test points, thermal performance data, and full schematic/layout documentation - all aligned with the production-grade MAX17690 controller's DCM flyback operation, EN/UVLO and OVI protection, soft-start, and temperature-compensated feedback architecture.

Technical Context

The MAX17690EVKITA# implements a complete isolated flyback reference design centered on the MAX17690 controller, which uses primary-side sensing of reflected flyback voltage during secondary zero-current crossing to achieve ±5% output regulation without optocoupler or third winding. Its core algorithm compensates for diode forward-voltage drift using a PTAT current injected via the TC pin (0.55V bias, +1.85mV/°C).

This kit validates key operational modes: discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) across 18V–36V input, 5V/1A output; hiccup-mode short-circuit protection triggered at 16,384-cycle suspension upon VSET < 0.7V or runaway CS threshold (120mV); and precise EN/UVLO (1.215V turn-on, 1.1V turn-off) and OVI (1.215V trip) thresholds set by external resistor dividers.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17690EVKITA# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC I/O modules, telecom power subsystems, and wide-input isolated DC-DC converters requiring stable component supply, fast design validation, and production-ready layout reference.

Supply support for MAX17690EVKITA# 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 demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX17690 product line delivers no-opto isolated flyback control for cost-sensitive, space-constrained power supplies where reliability, wide input range, and elimination of optocoupler aging are critical - targeting industrial automation, telecom infrastructure, and distributed power architectures.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17690EVKITA# evaluation kit?

The MAX17690EVKITA# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation platform for the MAX17690 no-opto isolated flyback controller. It demonstrates 5V/1A output from 18V–36V input using primary-side regulation, validates DCM operation, and provides access to all critical nodes (EN/UVLO, OVI, FB, SS, COMP, NDRV) for measurement and tuning. The MAX17690EVKITA# includes schematics, layout files, and test reports aligned with the MAX17690 datasheet specifications.

Does the MAX17690EVKITA# support input overvoltage protection?

Yes, the MAX17690EVKITA# implements input overvoltage protection via the MAX17690's OVI pin, configured with a resistor divider to trigger shutdown when input exceeds a user-defined threshold (e.g., 40V). Protection activates at 1.215V on the OVI pin and resumes only after voltage falls below 1.1V. This feature is fully validated on the MAX17690EVKITA# board and documented in its user guide.

Can the MAX17690EVKITA# be used to evaluate temperature compensation?

Yes, the MAX17690EVKITA# includes the RTC resistor (27.5kΩ) connected to the TC pin, enabling active temperature compensation of the output diode forward-voltage drift. This configuration maintains ±5% output regulation across –40°C to +125°C ambient, as verified in thermal chamber testing. The MAX17690EVKITA# schematic and layout preserve low-thermal-impedance routing for accurate TC pin bias (0.55V, +1.85mV/°C).

What is the soft-start behavior demonstrated by the MAX17690EVKITA#?

The MAX17690EVKITA# implements soft-start via a capacitor on the SS pin, charged by a precise 5µA internal current source. With the default CSS value, startup is monotonic and limits inrush current to safe levels - validated by oscilloscope waveforms showing controlled VOUT ramp-up without overshoot. This behavior is repeatable across temperature and input voltage, confirming robust operation of the MAX17690EVKITA#'s soft-start circuitry.

Is the MAX17690EVKITA# compatible with other MAX17690 variants like MAX17690ATP+?

Yes, the MAX17690EVKITA# is designed for the standard MAX17690 controller and is fully compatible with the MAX17690ATP+ (TQFN-16, –40°C to +125°C), as both share identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and functional architecture. All test points, firmware-independent operation, and reference design parameters on the MAX17690EVKITA# apply directly to the MAX17690ATP+, enabling seamless transition from evaluation to production.