Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX1837EVKIT

Overview

The MAX1837EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested surface-mount evaluation kit designed to demonstrate the performance of the MAX1837 step-down DC-DC converter. It delivers a preset +3.3V output at up to 250mA from a +4.5V to +24.0V input, features 12µA typical quiescent current, supports 100% duty cycle operation for low dropout, and enables output reconfiguration to +1.25V–+5.5V via external feedback resistors - used in power management validation for industrial sensors and portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX1837EVKIT datasheet, MAX1837EVKIT pinout (JU1 header, VIN/GND/VOUT pads), MAX1837EVKIT application (DC-DC converter evaluation, output voltage adjustment, enable/disable control), or MAX1837EVKIT equivalent (evaluation platforms for MAX1836/MAX1837 family), this page provides verified board-level specifications, jumper configuration logic, component-level BOM mapping, and functional validation guidance aligned with Maxim's official EV kit documentation.

Technical Context

The MAX1837EVKIT implements a synchronous step-down topology using the preinstalled MAX1837EUT33 IC in 6-pin SOT23 package, with integrated high-side switch and internal 1.25V feedback reference. It operates across +4.5V–+24.0V input, sustains 100% duty cycle for ultra-low dropout, and uses an external 22µH inductor (Sumida CDRH5D18-220) and 150µF low-ESR output capacitor (Sanyo 6TPB150M).

Jumper JU1 provides hardware-controlled enable/disable: shunt across pins 1–2 enables regulation to +3.3V; shunt across pins 2–3 pulls SHDN low for 3µA shutdown mode. Output voltage adjustment requires cutting the R2 short at JU2 and populating R1/R2 per V_OUT = 1.25V × (R1/R2 + 1), with R2 constrained to 10kΩ–100kΩ.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX1837EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converter evaluation, power rail validation, and low-quiescent-current regulator qualification requiring stable component supply in industrial sensor nodes, portable test equipment, and embedded microcontroller power subsystems.

Supply support for MAX1837EVKIT 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 analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX1837EVKIT belongs to Maxim's evaluation platform product line, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in and performance validation of the MAX1836/MAX1837 family of high-efficiency, low-I_Q step-down converters.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage of the MAX1837EVKIT and how is it set?

The MAX1837EVKIT is configured by default for +3.3V output by shorting the FB pin to ground through a PCB trace at JU2 (R2 location). This eliminates the need for external feedback resistors. The MAX1837EUT33 IC onboard has an internal 1.25V reference, and the preset output is achieved without populating R1 or R2. The MAX1837EVKIT schematic confirms this configuration in Figure 1 and the component placement guide verifies the R2 short on the board.

How do I enable or disable the MAX1837EVKIT using jumper JU1?

Jumper JU1 is a 3-pin header that controls the SHDN pin of the MAX1837EUT33. To enable the MAX1837EVKIT, place a shunt across pins 1 and 2 - connecting SHDN to VIN and activating regulation. To disable and enter shutdown mode, place the shunt across pins 2 and 3 - pulling SHDN to GND and reducing supply current to 3µA (typ). Table 1 in the MAX1837EVKIT documentation explicitly defines these configurations.

Can the MAX1837EVKIT evaluate other devices besides the MAX1837EUT33?

Yes, the MAX1837EVKIT can evaluate other members of the MAX1836/MAX1837 family, including MAX1836EUT33, MAX1836EUT50, and MAX1837EUT50. Table 2 lists compatible parts with their preset voltages and max output currents. To evaluate an alternate device, replace the preinstalled MAX1837EUT33 and verify FB-to-GND connection (for preset operation) and proper inductor/capacitor sizing per the MAX1836/MAX1837 data sheet.

What are the key external components used on the MAX1837EVKIT and their manufacturer part numbers?

The MAX1837EVKIT uses a Sumida CDRH5D18-220 (22µH, 0.8A) inductor, Sanyo 6TPB150M (150µF, 6.3V, low-ESR) output capacitor, Taiyo Yuden TMK432BJ106MM or TDK C4532X7R1E106KT (10µF, 25V) input capacitor, and Nihon EP05Q03L (0.5A, 30V Schottky) diode. These are listed in the Component List section of the MAX1837EVKIT documentation with supplier contact details.

How do I adjust the output voltage of the MAX1837EVKIT to a value other than +3.3V?

To adjust the MAX1837EVKIT output voltage to +1.25V–+5.5V, cut the PCB short at JU2 (the R2 location), then install precision resistors R1 and R2 per the equation V_OUT = 1.25V × (R1/R2 + 1). R2 must be between 10kΩ and 100kΩ. The MAX1837EVKIT documentation specifies this procedure in the "Output Voltages" section and references the MAX1836/MAX1837 data sheet for resistor selection guidelines.