Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX186EVKIT-DIP

Overview

MAX186EVKIT-DIP from Maxim Integrated is a through-hole evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX186 12-bit serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in single-ended or differential configurations with unipolar (+4.096V) or bipolar (±2.048V) input ranges. It includes a fully assembled PCB with MAX186DCPP, ICL7660CPA voltage converter, DG413DJ analog switch, and an 8-pin header for external µC interface. The kit supports stand-alone quick-look testing or full PC-based evaluation when paired with the optional 80C32MODULE-DIP.

For engineers reviewing the MAX186EVKIT-DIP datasheet, MAX186EVKIT-DIP pinout, MAX186EVKIT-DIP application, or MAX186EVKIT-DIP equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of ADC configuration, reference settling behavior, shutdown current measurement, and multiplexer channel scanning - all critical for embedded data acquisition, sensor interface, and industrial monitoring designs requiring precise 12-bit conversion.

Technical Context

The MAX186EVKIT-DIP implements a hardware-configurable test platform centered on the MAX186 ADC, supporting both internal (4.096V) and external reference operation via jumper JU3 and VREF pad. It provides selectable VSS (0V or –5V) using the ICL7660 and DG413, enabling true bipolar input evaluation without external negative supplies.

Serial interface signals (SCLK, CS, DIN, DOUT, SSTRB, SHDN, VSS SEL) are routed to an 8-pin header for direct connection to user microcontrollers. Jumper JU2 controls SHDN pin floating for external shutdown control, while JU1 allows in-circuit supply current measurement during FULL (2µA) and FAST (30µA) shutdown modes.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX186EVKIT-DIP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interface, embedded data acquisition, precision instrumentation, and educational ADC validation requiring stable component supply and full technical documentation support.

Supply support for MAX186EVKIT-DIP 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 ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX186EVKIT-DIP belongs to Maxim's legacy evaluation kit product line, engineered specifically to accelerate development for precision 12-bit ADC applications in resource-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX186EVKIT-DIP?

The MAX186EVKIT-DIP is a dedicated evaluation kit for the MAX186 12-bit serial ADC. It enables hardware and software validation of the device's multiplexer configuration, reference performance, shutdown behavior, and analog input response. Unlike full systems, it does not include a microcontroller - users must supply their own µC or pair it with the optional 80C32MODULE-DIP for PC-based operation. The MAX186EVKIT-DIP provides direct access to all digital control pins via an 8-pin header and supports both stand-alone quick-look circuits and comprehensive system-level testing.

Can the MAX186EVKIT-DIP operate without the 80C32 module?

Yes, the MAX186EVKIT-DIP can operate independently using the "quick-look" configuration described in Figure 5 of the MAX186/MAX188 datasheet. All required digital signals - SCLK, CS, DIN, DOUT, SSTRB, SHDN, VSS SEL, and DGND - are exposed on the 8-pin header along the bottom edge. Users provide +5V power, a clock signal (0.1–0.4MHz), grounded CS, and analog inputs to CH0–CH7 pads. This mode bypasses PC software and enables direct integration into custom µC-based systems, making the MAX186EVKIT-DIP suitable for prototyping and production validation outside Maxim's ecosystem.

How is the VSS voltage configured on the MAX186EVKIT-DIP?

The MAX186EVKIT-DIP uses an ICL7660CPA charge pump and DG413DJ analog switch to generate and select VSS. A logic-low signal on the VSS SEL header pin sets VSS = 0V (single-supply mode); logic-high sets VSS = –5V (dual-supply mode). This eliminates the need for an external negative rail during evaluation. The circuit is fully implemented on-board, and no soldering is required for basic VSS selection - only jumper configuration or header-level logic control is needed. This capability is essential for validating MAX186 operation with inputs extending below ground.

What are the supported reference voltage options for the MAX186 on this kit?

The MAX186EVKIT-DIP supports both internal and external reference configurations. By default, the MAX186 uses its internal 4.096V reference. To use an external reference, jumper JU3 must be shorted to connect REFADJ to VDD (disabling the internal reference), and the external voltage must be applied to the VREF pad. The kit includes a 22µF low-ESR capacitor (C6) for external compensation - it must be installed and JU2 cut when using external references or higher clock frequencies (up to 2MHz). These options ensure accurate scaling across varying precision requirements in the MAX186EVKIT-DIP evaluation workflow.

How do I measure supply current in shutdown mode using the MAX186EVKIT-DIP?

Jumper JU1 on the MAX186EVKIT-DIP is a dedicated current-monitoring point for the MAX186's VDD supply. To measure shutdown current, cut the PCB trace between the two holes marked JU1, solder short leads into each hole, and insert a multimeter in series. This allows direct measurement of supply current in both FAST (30µA) and FULL (2µA) shutdown states. The kit's design isolates the MAX186's power path, ensuring measurements reflect only the ADC's behavior - not auxiliary circuitry - making the MAX186EVKIT-DIP ideal for verifying low-power performance in battery-sensitive applications.