Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17760BEVKIT#

Overview

The MAX17760BEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX17760 high-voltage synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in 12V output applications. It operates from 16V–76V input, delivers up to 300mA at 12V, features 400kHz switching frequency, adjustable EN/UVLO, soft-start, MODE selection (PWM/PFM), and open-drain RESET - all implemented on a thermally optimized PCB layout.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17760BEVKIT# datasheet, MAX17760BEVKIT# pinout, MAX17760BEVKIT# application, or MAX17760BEVKIT# equivalent, this EV kit provides verified performance data, jumper-configurable operating modes, external clock synchronization capability, thermal-layout reference, and real-world load transient response under PWM and PFM conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX17760BEVKIT# implements the MAX17760 IC in a fixed 12V output configuration with input voltage range 16V–76V and maximum 300mA load current. It supports dual operation modes via JU2 (PWM or PFM), programmable EN/UVLO threshold using R1/R2 divider, and external clock synchronization through RT/SYNC pad with JU3 shunt.

Key design elements include a 100µH power inductor (Wurth 74408943101), 22µF/100V bulk capacitor (Panasonic EEE-TG2A220UP), 5.6nF soft-start capacitor (C6), and a TDFN-12 EP (3mm × 3mm) mounted MAX17760ATC+ IC. The board includes dedicated test points for VIN, VOUT, RESET, EN/UVLO, and SS signals.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17760BEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, high-voltage rail generation, and embedded system DC-DC design verification requiring stable component supply and documented thermal performance.

Supply support for MAX17760BEVKIT# 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 MAX17760 product line targets high-input-voltage DC-DC conversion in space-constrained, thermally demanding environments such as industrial sensors, distributed power systems, and railway electronics.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17760BEVKIT#?

The MAX17760BEVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation kit that validates the MAX17760 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in a 12V output configuration. It enables engineers to verify performance metrics including efficiency, regulation, transient response, and protection behavior across its 16V–76V input range without designing a custom PCB. The MAX17760BEVKIT# includes all necessary passive components, jumpers for mode selection, and test points aligned to the MAX17760ATC+ IC's pinout.

Does the MAX17760BEVKIT# support both PWM and PFM operation modes?

Yes, the MAX17760BEVKIT# supports both PWM and PFM modes via jumper JU2. With shunt installed on pins 1–2, the MAX17760 operates in PWM mode; with no shunt, it defaults to PFM. This configuration is confirmed in Table 2 of the MAX17760BEVKIT# documentation and affects light-load efficiency and output ripple characteristics. The MAX17760BEVKIT# performance plots explicitly show separate efficiency vs. load curves for both modes.

How is input undervoltage lockout (UVLO) configured on the MAX17760BEVKIT#?

UVLO on the MAX17760BEVKIT# is resistor-programmable using R1 (1.5MΩ) and R2 (115kΩ) to set the turn-on threshold at approximately 16V. Jumper JU1 position 1–2 connects these resistors to the EN/UVLO pin of the MAX17760. The formula R1 ≤ (110000 × VINU) and the provided resistor values confirm the UVLO rising threshold matches the stated 16V minimum input requirement. The MAX17760BEVKIT# also allows external enable control by leaving JU1 open and driving the EN/UVLO pad directly.

Can the MAX17760BEVKIT# be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes, the MAX17760BEVKIT# supports external clock synchronization via the RT/SYNC pad and jumper JU3. When JU3 is shorted, the MAX17760 synchronizes to an external clock signal applied to that pad - demonstrated in performance plots with 560kHz synchronization. The MAX17760BEVKIT# documentation confirms that during synchronization, the device operates exclusively in PWM mode regardless of JU2 setting, and the internal oscillator is disabled.

What thermal and layout advantages does the MAX17760BEVKIT# provide?

The MAX17760BEVKIT# provides a thermally optimized PCB layout with exposed pad grounding, strategic copper pour, and component placement validated for the MAX17760's TDFN-12 EP package. It includes a 22µF/100V electrolytic capacitor (C1) to dampen input cable inductance-induced oscillations during hot-plug events - a design consideration critical for long-cable industrial deployments. The MAX17760BEVKIT# schematic and layer diagrams are supplied to serve as a reference for production-level thermal and EMI-sensitive layouts.