Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20028EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX20028EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX20028 automotive-grade power-management IC (PMIC), featuring one high-voltage step-down controller (Buck 1) and two low-voltage synchronous buck converters (Buck 2, Buck 3). It operates from 3.5V to 36V input, delivers 5V/5A, 3.3V/3A, and 1.2V/3A outputs, and supports reconfiguration for PWM, skip, or external synchronization - optimized for automotive infotainment systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20028EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20028EVKIT# pinout, MAX20028EVKIT# application, or MAX20028EVKIT# equivalent, key selection considerations include its preconfigured triple-output topology, 2.1MHz switching capability, jumper-selectable spread-spectrum and sync modes, thermal warning (ERR) output, and individual reset signals with configurable logic/open-drain behavior.

Technical Context

The MAX20028EVKIT# implements the full functional architecture of the MAX20028 PMIC, including a high-voltage buck controller (Buck 1) with 3.5V–36V input range and 5V/5A output, plus two low-voltage synchronous buck converters (Buck 2 and Buck 3) powered from Buck 1's output and configured for 3.3V/3A and 1.2V/3A respectively. All three regulators support adjustable output voltages via resistor dividers (0.8V–3.6V for Buck 2/3).

Hardware-level configurability is provided through seven jumpers (JU1–JU7): JU1–JU3 control individual enable inputs; JU4 selects spread-spectrum mode; JU5 configures sync/PWM/skip operation; JU6/JU7 set RESET2/RESET3 output type (logic-level or open-drain); and all reset outputs assert low on >6% undervoltage with 3.9ms timeout. Thermal warning (ERR) activates at +145°C (typ) with 15°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAX20028EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment development, ADAS subsystem validation, and in-vehicle power architecture prototyping requiring stable component supply and rapid design iteration.

Supply support for MAX20028EVKIT# 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 solutions for automotive, industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX20028EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's automotive power evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate qualification and integration of high-reliability PMICs in safety-conscious vehicle subsystems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX20028EVKIT#?

The MAX20028EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX20028 PMIC, enabling immediate validation of its triple-output power architecture - one high-voltage buck controller (5V/5A) and two low-voltage synchronous buck converters (3.3V/3A and 1.2V/3A). It supports real-world automotive input conditions (3.5V–36V), offers jumper-based configuration for PWM/skip/sync modes, and includes thermal warning and per-rail reset monitoring - all implemented on a proven PCB layout.

Does the MAX20028EVKIT# support adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX20028EVKIT# supports adjustable output voltages. Buck 1's 5V output can be modified to 3.3V by removing R7 and populating R6 with a 0Ω resistor. Buck 2 and Buck 3 outputs are configurable between 0.8V and 3.6V using external resistor dividers, as detailed in the MAX20028 IC data sheet's OUT2/OUT3 Adjustable Output-Voltage Option section - allowing flexible rail tuning for diverse SoC or MCU requirements.

How do I configure spread-spectrum or external synchronization on the MAX20028EVKIT#?

Spread-spectrum operation is enabled by installing a shunt across pins 1–2 on jumper JU4; disabling it uses pins 2–3 (default). External synchronization is activated by leaving jumper JU5 unconnected - the SYNC pin then accepts an external clock signal. For fixed-frequency PWM mode, install a shunt across JU5 pins 1–2; for skip mode under light loads, use pins 2–3. These configurations directly map to the MAX20028 IC's CSEL1, SSEN, and SYNC pin functions.

What are the reset output behaviors on the MAX20028EVKIT#?

The MAX20028EVKIT# provides three independent reset outputs (RESET1, RESET2, RESET3), each asserting low when its respective buck output drops more than 6% below regulation. RESET1 is logic-level by default (internal pullup). RESET2 and RESET3 output type is configurable via jumpers JU6 and JU7: closed = logic-level (pulled up to VOUT1), open = open-drain. All resets hold low for 3.9ms after recovery, ensuring robust system-level reset timing.

Can the MAX20028EVKIT# evaluate other MAX20028 variants beyond the installed MAX20028ATJA/VY+?

Yes, the MAX20028EVKIT# is designed to evaluate multiple MAX20028 variants. It ships with the MAX20028ATJA/VY+ (32-pin side-wettable TQFN-EP) installed but supports other package-compatible versions of the MAX20028 IC with minor hardware modifications - such as changing feedback resistors or input capacitors - as outlined in the MAX20028 IC data sheet's external component selection guidelines.