Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX17761EVKITB#

Overview

MAX17761EVKITB# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX17761 high-voltage synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC, supporting 4.5V–76V input and delivering up to 1A output current with programmable 0.8V–90% VIN output voltage. It implements peak-current-mode control with selectable PWM/PFM operation, ±1.5% feedback regulation accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, and features integrated high-side pMOS (1.8Ω max) and low-side nMOS (0.55Ω max) switches in a 3mm × 3mm TDFN package.

For engineers reviewing the MAX17761EVKITB# datasheet, MAX17761EVKITB# pinout, MAX17761EVKITB# application, or MAX17761EVKITB# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of industrial power supply designs requiring wide-input, high-efficiency, prebiased-startup, and RESET-monitored regulation - especially for basestation, distributed supply, and high-voltage single-board systems.

Technical Context

The MAX17761EVKITB# implements the full reference design for the MAX17761 IC, including optimized layout, thermal vias to the exposed pad (EP), 2.2μF VIN ceramic decoupling, 1μF VCC bypass, and configurable RT/SYNC (200–600kHz) and MODE/ILIM (PWM/PFM + 1.14A/1.6A current limit) networks. It supports external clock synchronization and delivers >90% peak efficiency across 3.3V/5V outputs at 1A load.

Key functional blocks validated on the board include the internal 5V LDO (VCC), EXTVCC switchover (4.74V threshold), open-drain RESET monitoring (92%/95% FB thresholds, 2.1ms delay), monotonic soft-start (programmable via SS capacitor), and thermal shutdown (160°C trip, 20°C hysteresis). All signals - VIN, LX, PGND, SGND, EN/UVLO, FB, SS, RT/SYNC, MODE/ILIM, EXTVCC, RESET - are accessible via test points or headers.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX17761EVKITB# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control power supplies, basestation power supplies, and high-voltage single-board systems requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping support, and production-ready reference design validation.

Supply support for MAX17761EVKITB# 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management solutions for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX17761 product line delivers high-voltage synchronous buck conversion for harsh industrial environments, emphasizing wide-input operation, robust protection, and minimal external components - enabling compact, reliable point-of-load regulation where space and thermal constraints are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX17761EVKITB#?

The MAX17761EVKITB# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to demonstrate and validate the performance of the MAX17761 high-voltage synchronous step-down DC-DC converter IC. It provides immediate access to all key signals - including VIN, LX, FB, RT/SYNC, MODE/ILIM, and RESET - and implements best-practice layout, thermal design, and component selection per the MAX17761 datasheet. Engineers use the MAX17761EVKITB# to verify regulation accuracy, efficiency, transient response, and protection features before committing to custom PCB design.

Does the MAX17761EVKITB# support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the MAX17761EVKITB# supports external clock synchronization via the RT/SYNC pin. When an external clock signal within 1.15× to 1.4× the programmed switching frequency is applied, the MAX17761 IC synchronizes its internal oscillator to that source. The kit's layout preserves signal integrity for SYNC input, and the RT/SYNC node is accessible via test point or solder pad. This capability allows system-level noise reduction and EMI control in multi-rail power architectures using the MAX17761EVKITB# as a reference.

Can the MAX17761EVKITB# be used to evaluate prebiased startup behavior?

Yes, the MAX17761EVKITB# fully supports and demonstrates monotonic startup into prebiased outputs - a core feature of the MAX17761 IC. The board's configuration ensures both high-side and low-side FETs remain off until the first PWM pulse is commanded, preventing reverse current flow. This behavior is observable using oscilloscope probes on the LX and VOUT nodes while applying a prebias voltage. The MAX17761EVKITB# thus validates safe integration into systems with backup rails or hot-swap requirements.

What output voltages can be configured using the MAX17761EVKITB#?

The MAX17761EVKITB# supports output voltages from 0.8V up to 90% of the applied input voltage (e.g., up to 68.4V at VIN = 76V), set by adjusting the FB resistor divider. Default configurations typically target 3.3V or 5V outputs, but the board's uncommitted FB network allows easy reconfiguration. Regulation accuracy remains ±1.5% over –40°C to +125°C ambient, and the MAX17761EVKITB# includes measurement points to verify line/load regulation and transient response across the full output range.

How does the MAX17761EVKITB# implement thermal management?

The MAX17761EVKITB# implements thermal management via direct connection of the IC's exposed pad (EP) to a large internal SGND copper plane using multiple thermal vias - matching the JEDEC-standard four-layer board recommendation. This achieves a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 41°C/W, enabling sustained 1A operation at +70°C ambient without forced airflow. The board also includes test points for measuring die temperature indirectly via the EP pad, and the MAX17761's built-in thermal shutdown (160°C trip, 20°C hysteresis) is fully functional and observable on the MAX17761EVKITB#.