Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20796DL2EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX20796DL2EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to characterize the MAX20796 two-phase, high-efficiency synchronous step-down switching regulator with discrete inductor implementation. It supports 4.5V–16V input, delivers 1.8V–5V output, and features PMBus interface, SYNC_IN/SYNC_OUT capability, adjustable current limit, and configurable compensation via pin-strap resistors.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20796DL2EVKIT# pinout, MAX20796DL2EVKIT# application, or MAX20796DL2EVKIT# equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of power delivery performance-including bode plot measurement, efficiency testing, output regulation accuracy, and multi-phase scalability-under real-world load and thermal conditions.

Technical Context

This EV kit implements the MAX20796 in its default two-phase configuration using discrete 470nH shielded inductors (L2, L3) and a 33µH auxiliary inductor (L4), with full support for PMBus-based telemetry and control via the MAXPOWERTOOL002# dongle. The board integrates dedicated test points (TP3/TP32 for bode injection, TP38/TP40 for VOUT regulation) and SMB coaxial jacks for precise SYNC signal routing and output voltage monitoring.

Hardware-level configurability includes jumper-selectable LDO input source (VIN, AUX3P3, or EB-regulated 3.0V), 3.3V pull-up enable for SCL/SDA/ALERT (J13), and EN control via toggle switch S2 with 3.3V bias. Input enable (S1) and fault/PG status outputs are accessible through banana jacks and test points for system-level integration verification.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20796DL2EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply design validation, DC-DC converter qualification, and PMBus-enabled digital power system development requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for MAX20796DL2EVKIT# 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management solutions for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX20796 product line delivers highly integrated, thermally enhanced, multi-phase buck controllers targeting high-current, low-voltage point-of-load (POL) regulation in space-constrained systems such as AI accelerators, telecom infrastructure, and server VRMs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX20796DL2EVKIT#?

The MAX20796DL2EVKIT# is a dedicated evaluation platform for the MAX20796 two-phase synchronous buck controller. It provides a proven eight-layer PCB layout with discrete inductors, PMBus interface, and comprehensive test points to validate regulation accuracy, transient response, efficiency, and multi-phase synchronization behavior under real operating conditions.

Can the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# be used to evaluate the MAX20766?

No - the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# is configured specifically for two-phase operation with the MAX20796. While the board's schematic accommodates MAX20766 installation for three-phase use, the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# variant ships with MAX20796 pre-installed and MAX20766 marked DNI (Do Not Install). For three-phase evaluation, the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# is the designated kit.

What power supply requirements are needed to operate the MAX20796DL2EVKIT#?

The MAX20796DL2EVKIT# requires a single 12V DC power supply capable of delivering up to 20A (as specified in the Quick Start guide). Input is connected via banana jacks J5 (+) and J8 (–). The board operates across 4.5V–16V, but 12V is the recommended nominal input for full-load characterization and thermal validation.

How is PMBus communication implemented on the MAX20796DL2EVKIT#?

The MAX20796DL2EVKIT# includes a dedicated PMBus header compatible with the MAXPOWERTOOL002# dongle. This enables full read/write access to device registers for output voltage setting, current limit adjustment, fault status monitoring, telemetry logging (VOUT, IOUT, temperature), and dynamic compensation tuning without soldering or firmware modification.

Does the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# support bode plot analysis?

Yes - the MAX20796DL2EVKIT# includes dedicated bode plot test points TP3 and TP32 across a 10Ω injection resistor, enabling direct small-signal frequency response measurement. This allows engineers to verify loop stability, phase margin, and gain margin during compensation tuning and system integration.