Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20412EVKIT#

Overview

MAX20412EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX20412 automotive dual-channel step-down controller. It supports 3V–5.5V input, delivers 0.825V at up to 60A on Output 1 and 0.825V at up to 30A on Output 2, and operates at 2.2MHz with ±2% output-voltage accuracy and I²C-controlled voltage adjustment from 0.25V to 1.275V.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20412EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20412EVKIT# pinout, MAX20412EVKIT# application, or MAX20412EVKIT# equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-current automotive power delivery, differential remote sensing, forced-PWM/skip-mode operation, and synchronized multi-phase configurations using the underlying MAX20412 IC.

Technical Context

The MAX20412EVKIT# implements the MAX20412's current-mode control architecture with independent EN1/EN2 enable inputs (via jumpers J1/J4), differential Kelvin sense paths (J39/J38), and configurable SYNC I/O (SO[1:0] bits). It supports three operating modes-forced-PWM, skip, and current-mode-with soft-start and DVS slewing capabilities.

Hardware features include proven PCB layout with low-impedance power planes, 220μs typical PGOOD delay after soft-start or DVS transitions, and open-drain PG_ outputs tied to 10kΩ pullups. The kit uses Infineon BSZ014NE2LS5IFATMA1 MOSFETs and TDK HPL505028F080KD3P inductors, optimized for thermal performance under 60A load conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20412EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS domain controllers, infotainment power subsystems, and high-reliability embedded computing platforms requiring stable component supply, pre-validated thermal design, and production-ready layout reference.

Supply support for MAX20412EVKIT# 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 automotive, industrial, and communications applications.

The MAX20412EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's automotive power evaluation platform family, developed specifically to accelerate qualification of high-current, AEC-Q100-compliant DC-DC controllers in safety-critical vehicle systems.

FAQ

What does the MAX20412EVKIT# evaluate?

The MAX20412EVKIT# evaluates the MAX20412 automotive dual-channel step-down controller IC. It provides a complete, pre-assembled hardware platform with validated layout, thermal design, and test points for verifying performance-including 60A/30A output capability, 2.2MHz switching, differential remote sensing, and I²C programmability-under real-world automotive input and load conditions.

Does the MAX20412EVKIT# require external programming hardware?

No, the MAX20412EVKIT# does not require external programming hardware for basic operation. It ships with default output voltages (0.825V per channel) and can be powered directly via a 5V/20A supply. I²C configuration requires only an I²C master (e.g., microcontroller or USB-I²C adapter); no dedicated programmer is needed to adjust VID registers or SO[1:0] settings on the MAX20412EVKIT#.

Can the MAX20412EVKIT# operate in single-phase mode on Output 1?

Yes, the MAX20412EVKIT# supports single-phase operation on Output 1. As documented in the hardware description, users can reconfigure it by removing inductor L2 and moving the 0Ω resistor from R16 to R9. This modification disables phase interleaving on OUT1 while retaining full 60A capability using the primary phase, enabling flexible topology validation for the MAX20412EVKIT#.

How is power-good signaling implemented on the MAX20412EVKIT#?

The MAX20412EVKIT# implements open-drain PGOOD outputs (PG1 and PG2) with 10kΩ pullup resistors. Each asserts after the power-good active timeout period and includes a 220μs typical delay following soft-start or DVS slewing. Deassertion occurs within UV/OV propagation delay if output voltage falls outside PG_UV/PG_OV thresholds - a timing-critical feature verified on the MAX20412EVKIT# during factory testing.

What are the key jumpers on the MAX20412EVKIT# and their functions?

The MAX20412EVKIT# includes jumper J1 (EN1 control), J4 (EN2 control), and J3 (I²C slave address). J1 and J4 shunted across pins 1–2 enable normal operation; pins 2–3 place respective outputs in shutdown (reducing IC quiescent current to 5µA). J3 sets ADDR = 0 (default, via R1 pulldown) or ADDR = 1 (shunt pins 1–2), defining the I²C address used by the MAX20412EVKIT# during communication.