Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20461EVKIT#

Overview

MAX20461EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX20461 automotive-grade, high-current (3A), synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated USB Type-C DFP controller, 1GHz bandwidth USB 2.0 D+/D− protection switches, and cable-compensation voltage adjustment-designed for in-vehicle USB power delivery systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20461EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20461EVKIT# pinout, MAX20461EVKIT# application, or MAX20461EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of USB-C port detection (USB-IF BC1.2, Apple, Samsung, YD/T 1591), buck converter operation up to 28V input/40V load-dump tolerance, I²C-configurable voltage gain (0–28), real-time die temperature/output current monitoring, and VCONN-powered E-marked cable support.

Technical Context

The MAX20461EVKIT# implements the MAX20461ATJA/V+ IC in a fixed 2.2MHz switching configuration, featuring integrated host-charger port detection per USB Type-C 1.3, BC1.2, Apple 2.4A/1.0A, and YD/T 1591 standards. It supports automatic USB output voltage compensation via programmable gain (GAIN[4:0]) to offset voltage drop across captive cables.

Hardware-level control is provided through SW1 dip switch (HVEN, ENBUCK, SYNC, CDP/DCP) and external headers J1 (I²C, enable, fault, interrupt), J5/J6 (CC1/CC2 pull-down resistors), enabling both standalone and GUI-driven evaluation. The board includes a MINIQUSB+ interface for full register access, ADC readout (die temp, VOUT, IOUT), and fault diagnostics via IRQ_MASK-controlled interrupts.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20461EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive USB-C port development, in-vehicle infotainment power subsystem validation, and USB 2.0 high-speed data path qualification requiring stable component supply and production-ready reference designs.

Supply support for MAX20461EVKIT# 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 - emphasizing robustness, integration, and system-level functionality.

The MAX20461 product line targets automotive USB-C power delivery systems requiring integrated charging detection, ESD/short-to-battery protection, and dynamic cable-drop compensation - eliminating discrete charge controllers, protection FETs, and external compensation circuitry.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX20461EVKIT#?

The MAX20461EVKIT# is a complete, ready-to-use evaluation platform for the MAX20461 IC. It demonstrates full USB Type-C DFP functionality-including port detection (USB-C, BC1.2, Apple, Samsung, YD/T 1591), 3A synchronous buck conversion with 2.2MHz operation, 1GHz USB 2.0 data switching, and programmable cable compensation-enabling engineers to validate system behavior before custom PCB design.

Does the MAX20461EVKIT# support E-marked USB-C cables?

Yes, the MAX20461EVKIT# supports VCONN power for E-marked cables. By removing R23 and connecting an external 5V/0.3A supply to the VCONN test point, the board delivers up to 1.5W to the cable's e-marker IC. The GUI displays "VCONN Ready" status, and jumper configurations on J5/J6 allow Ra/Rd assignment per USB-C specification requirements.

How is USB output voltage adjusted on the MAX20461EVKIT#?

USB output voltage is adjusted automatically using the MAX20461's integrated cable compensation feature. The GUI allows direct entry of GAIN[4:0] values (0–28); setting GAIN = 28 increases the buck output by ~4.2V to offset IR drop across long cables. This ensures ≥5.15V at the far end of a 2m USB-A extension cable under 3A load, verified with a digital voltmeter.

What interfaces does the MAX20461EVKIT# provide for configuration and monitoring?

The MAX20461EVKIT# provides an I²C interface via header J1 (SCL/SDA) and the included MINIQUSB+ module. The MAX20461 GUI reads real-time ADC values (die temperature, output voltage, output current), configures charge modes, sets gain, and monitors faults (overvoltage, overcurrent, thermal shutdown). No external programming hardware is required beyond a standard USB port.

Can the MAX20461EVKIT# be used without the GUI software?

Yes - the MAX20461EVKIT# supports hardware-only operation. SW1 dip switch controls HVEN (device enable), ENBUCK (buck enable), CDP/DCP (charge mode override), and SYNC (synchronization mode). Test points (VBAT, VBUS, GND, FAULT, INT) allow oscilloscope or DVM verification. However, full diagnostic visibility and cable compensation tuning require the GUI and MINIQUSB+.