Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20733EVKIT#

Overview

MAX20733EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX20733 35A integrated step-down switching regulator, designed to validate high-efficiency point-of-load power delivery under real-world conditions including 12V input, 1V output, and 400kHz switching frequency. It supports fast transient response (up to 300A/µs), differential remote sensing, and programmable protection features for networking and server applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20733EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20733EVKIT# pinout, MAX20733EVKIT# application, or MAX20733EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of thermal performance, efficiency curves, startup timing, OCP/OTP behavior, and system-level SOA boundaries using the reference four-layer PCB with 2oz copper and specified BOM per Table 8.

Technical Context

The MAX20733EVKIT# implements the MAX20733 IC in a fully assembled, tested configuration with fixed component values per Table 8: 170nH inductor, six 100µF + two 470µF output capacitors, and programmed settings for VOUT = 1V, fSW = 400kHz, soft-start = 3ms, and RGAIN = 0.9mV/A. It uses valley current-mode control with dynamic frequency scaling during transients and integrates BST capacitor, feedback resistors, and programming networks for VREF, OTP, and OCP.

This kit validates operation across absolute maximum ratings (VDDH = –0.3V to +18V, TJ = –40°C to +125°C) and thermal limits (θJA = 13°C/W on four-layer board), delivering peak efficiency of 90.8% at 12V→1V/35A and supporting safe operating area testing under 200LFM airflow, still-air, and 400LFM conditions as shown in Figures toc08–toc10.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20733EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for networking equipment validation, server power architecture development, and telecom point-of-load design requiring stable component supply and repeatable lab characterization.

Supply support for MAX20733EVKIT# 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 high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, sensing, and communications infrastructure.

The MAX20733 product line delivers compact, high-current DC-DC regulation for space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as AI accelerators, 5G baseband units, and enterprise SSDs.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX20733EVKIT#?

The MAX20733EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX20733 35A integrated buck regulator. It enables engineers to verify electrical performance-including efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and protection functionality-using the exact component values and PCB layout documented in the MAX20733 datasheet's Table 8 and Figure 6. The MAX20733EVKIT# is not a production-ready module but a lab-validation tool.

Does the MAX20733EVKIT# support adjustable output voltage?

No-the MAX20733EVKIT# is configured for a fixed 1V output per Table 8 of the MAX20733 datasheet, using RFB1 = 1.87kΩ and RFB2 = 3.48kΩ. While the underlying MAX20733 IC supports output voltages from 0.6484V to 5.5V via external resistor dividers, the MAX20733EVKIT# itself ships with these specific feedback resistors pre-soldered and is intended for 1V validation only.

What switching frequency is implemented on the MAX20733EVKIT#?

The MAX20733EVKIT# operates at 400kHz, set by C_SEL2 = open and C_SEL3 = open per Table 5 and Table 6 of the MAX20733 datasheet. This frequency balances efficiency, component size, and EMI performance for high-current 1V rails. The MAX20733EVKIT# does not include jumpers or DIP switches to change fSW; reconfiguration requires modifying C_SEL2/C_SEL3 capacitors.

Can the MAX20733EVKIT# be used to evaluate thermal derating?

Yes-the MAX20733EVKIT# is explicitly characterized for thermal performance: its four-layer 2oz copper board achieves θJA = 13°C/W (still air), enabling direct measurement of junction temperature rise vs. load current. The kit validates SOA curves shown in Figures toc08–toc10, including derating to 34A at TA = 55°C (200LFM) and 22A at TA = 85°C (still air), as specified in the MAX20733 datasheet's Operating Ratings table.

Is remote sensing enabled on the MAX20733EVKIT#?

Yes-the MAX20733EVKIT# implements differential remote sensing using Kelvin-connected VSENSE+ and VSENSE– traces routed directly to the output capacitor bank. This configuration validates the MAX20733's ±0.7% load regulation and open-circuit detection capability, ensuring accurate voltage regulation at the load point despite PCB IR drop-a critical requirement for µP core and memory VDDQ rails.