Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX186EVSYS-DIP

Overview

MAX186EVSYS-DIP from Maxim Integrated Products is a fully assembled and tested evaluation system designed to comprehensively assess the MAX186 12-bit serial analog-to-digital converter (ADC) using an IBM-compatible PC. It integrates a MAX186 evaluation kit (MAX186EVKIT-DIP) and a Maxim 80C32 microcontroller module, supporting software-configurable single-ended or differential input modes with unipolar (+4.096V) or bipolar (±2.048V) ranges, and enables full characterization of shutdown behavior, reference voltage options, and multiplexer operation.

For engineers reviewing the MAX186EVSYS-DIP datasheet, MAX186EVSYS-DIP pinout, MAX186EVSYS-DIP application, or MAX186EVSYS-DIP equivalent, this system provides hands-on validation of ADC timing, serial interface behavior (DIN/DOUT/SCLK/CS), VSS switching (0V/–5V), SHDN-controlled power states, and real-time data acquisition across all eight analog inputs - critical for industrial data acquisition, sensor interface prototyping, and mixed-signal embedded design verification.

Technical Context

The MAX186EVSYS-DIP implements a two-board architecture: the MAX186EVKIT-DIP hosts the MAX186DCPP ADC, ICL7660CPA voltage inverter, DG413DJ analog switch, and 8-pin header for digital signal access; the 80C32MODULE-DIP provides RS-232 host communication, 32kB static RAM, 8kB EPROM boot code, and Port 1 (P1.0–P1.7) mapped directly to MAX186 control pins (SCLK, CS, DIN, DOUT, SSTRB, SHDN, VSS SEL). Serial communication between PC and 80C32 uses 1200 baud RS-232, while 80C32-to-MAX186 communication follows the MAX186's native SPI-like protocol with rising-edge DIN clocking and falling-edge DOUT sampling.

Hardware features include jumper-selectable VSS (0V or –5V), configurable shutdown (FAST/ FULL), external reference support via JU3 and C6, current-monitoring capability at JU1, and prototyping area with pre-mounted passive components. The system's maximum effective sampling rate is limited to 5ksps by the 80C32's processing speed, though standalone MAX186EVKIT-DIP operation supports higher rates when interfaced with faster µCs.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX186EVSYS-DIP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data acquisition, sensor interface development, and mixed-signal embedded system validation requiring stable component supply, full functional evaluation, and rapid prototyping support.

Supply support for MAX186EVSYS-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 Products (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 MAX186EVSYS-DIP belongs to Maxim's evaluation platform product line, engineered to accelerate design-in of precision data converters by providing complete, ready-to-run hardware/software systems that expose all device features without custom firmware or PCB development.

FAQ

What is the MAX186EVSYS-DIP used for?

The MAX186EVSYS-DIP is a complete evaluation system for the MAX186 12-bit ADC, enabling engineers to validate its serial interface timing, input range configuration (unipolar/bipolar), multiplexer channel selection, shutdown modes (FAST/FULL), VSS switching (0V/–5V), and reference voltage behavior using a standard PC. It eliminates the need for custom controller hardware or low-level firmware development during early-stage ADC integration.

Does the MAX186EVSYS-DIP include both the ADC board and microcontroller module?

Yes, the MAX186EVSYS-DIP includes two fully assembled and tested boards: the MAX186EVKIT-DIP (featuring the MAX186DCPP ADC, ICL7660CPA inverter, DG413DJ switch, and 8-pin header) and the 80C32MODULE-DIP (containing the 80C32 microcontroller, RS-232 interface, 32kB static RAM, and 8kB EPROM boot loader). They connect via a 40-pin edge connector and communicate over Port 1.

Can the MAX186EVSYS-DIP evaluate the MAX186 at its full 100ksps conversion rate?

No - the MAX186EVSYS-DIP's maximum effective sampling rate is limited to 5ksps due to the 80C32 microcontroller's processing speed and RS-232 communication bandwidth. For full-speed evaluation up to 100ksps, use the standalone MAX186EVKIT-DIP with an external high-speed controller, as described in the MAX186 EV Kit Quick Start section.

How is VSS voltage selected on the MAX186EVSYS-DIP?

VSS voltage on the MAX186EVSYS-DIP is selected via software control of the 80C32's P1.0 pin (labeled VSS SEL), which drives the DG413 analog switch. A logic low sets VSS = 0V (single-supply mode); a logic high activates the ICL7660 to generate –5V for dual-supply operation. This allows real-time evaluation of input signals extending below ground.

What software is required to operate the MAX186EVSYS-DIP?

The MAX186EVSYS-DIP requires the MAX186 EV kit software, downloadable from www.maxim-ic.com/evkitsoftware. It installs as a Windows application with a graphical interface for configuring control words, setting sample rates, scanning all eight channels, displaying real-time graphs, calculating statistics (min/max/average), and saving raw output codes. The software communicates with the 80C32 module via RS-232 and loads the 186RAM.MAX program into its static RAM.