Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX18066EVKIT#

Overview

MAX18066EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX18066 and MAX18166 4A synchronous step-down DC-DC regulators. It ships preconfigured with the MAX18066 delivering a fixed 1.8V output at up to 4A from a 4.5V–16V input, features a proven PCB layout, and supports adjustable output voltage (0.606V to 0.9×VIN) via external resistor dividers.

For engineers reviewing the MAX18066EVKIT# datasheet, MAX18066EVKIT# pinout, MAX18066EVKIT# application, or MAX18066EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid functional validation of high-efficiency buck regulation, power sequencing (EN/PGOOD), soft-start tuning (C7-based), and layout-verified thermal and EMI performance in industrial and embedded power supply designs.

Technical Context

The MAX18066EVKIT# implements a current-mode, synchronous buck topology using the MAX18066 IC in a 16-bump WLP package. It operates at a fixed 500kHz switching frequency, supports independent enable (EN) and open-drain power-good (PGOOD) signals, and includes hardware-configurable soft-start via C7 (default 0.01μF → ~1.2ms).

Output voltage adjustment is achieved through R5/R6 feedback divider (VFB = 0.606V), enabling outputs from 0.606V to 90% of VIN. The board integrates all critical passives-including XAL4020-222ME inductor, 47μF aluminum + 47μF ceramic output capacitors-and provides test points for IN, VOUT, EN, PGOOD, and SS.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX18066EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, embedded system bring-up, and DC-DC regulator qualification requiring stable component supply and pre-validated reference design fidelity.

Supply support for MAX18066EVKIT# 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 MAX18066EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's high-current DC-DC evaluation platform family, created to accelerate development of efficient, compact, and layout-optimized point-of-load power supplies.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX18066EVKIT#?

The MAX18066EVKIT# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit that validates the electrical performance, thermal behavior, and layout integrity of the MAX18066 and MAX18166 4A synchronous buck regulators. It provides immediate 1.8V/4A operation from 4.5V–16V input and supports reconfiguration for other output voltages via feedback resistors - enabling fast prototyping without custom PCB design.

Does the MAX18066EVKIT# support both MAX18066 and MAX18166 ICs?

Yes, the MAX18066EVKIT# is designed to evaluate both the MAX18066 and the pin-compatible MAX18166. The board ships with the MAX18066 installed and configured for 1.8V output at 500kHz; the MAX18166 can be substituted directly (no PCB changes required) to evaluate its 350kHz operation and associated efficiency/noise trade-offs.

How is output voltage adjusted on the MAX18066EVKIT#?

Output voltage on the MAX18066EVKIT# is adjusted by modifying the R5/R6 feedback resistor divider, referenced to the 0.606V internal feedback threshold (VFB). With R6 fixed (e.g., 10kΩ), R5 is calculated as R5 = R6 × (VOUT/VFB − 1). For 0.606V output, FB is shorted to OUT. The board supports outputs from 0.606V up to 90% of VIN.

What role does capacitor C7 play in the MAX18066EVKIT#?

Capacitor C7 sets the soft-start time on the MAX18066EVKIT# via the MAX18066's SS pin. With the default 0.01μF value, soft-start duration is approximately 1.2ms - limiting inrush current during startup. To adjust timing, use C7 = (5μA × tSS)/0.606V, where tSS is the desired soft-start time in seconds and C7 is in farads.

How are enable and power-good signals implemented on the MAX18066EVKIT#?

The MAX18066EVKIT# provides dedicated EN (enable) and PGOOD (power-good) test points. EN is controlled via a shunt jumper: installed = shutdown, removed = active. PGOOD is an open-drain output pulled up to VDD via R8; it asserts high-impedance when VFB > 0.56V (typ) and pulls low when VFB < 0.545V (typ) or during shutdown - enabling reliable system-level power sequencing and fault detection.