Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20796DL3EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX20796DL3EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to characterize the MAX20796 two-phase and MAX20766 three-phase high-efficiency synchronous step-down switching regulators. It supports 4.5V–16V input, delivers 1.8V–5V output, and features banana jacks, SMB coaxial connectors, PMBus interface, and configurable compensation-enabling rapid validation of power delivery in server, telecom, and industrial POL applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# datasheet, MAX20796DL3EVKIT# pinout, MAX20796DL3EVKIT# application, or MAX20796DL3EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides immediate access to phase-interleaved regulation, SYNC-in/out timing control, real-time efficiency measurement points, and PMBus-based configuration-critical for evaluating multi-phase DC-DC performance under dynamic load and thermal conditions.

Technical Context

This board implements a proven eight-layer PCB layout optimized for low-noise, high-current operation with discrete inductors (three 470nH shielded inductors for 3-phase mode). It integrates the MAX20796 IC in FC2QFN35 package and supports optional installation of the MAX20766 to extend operation to three phases, with shared input/output rails, synchronized switching, and independent current-sense paths.

The EV kit includes dedicated test points for bode plot analysis (TP3/TP32), efficiency measurement (VinEffP/VinEffN, TP9/TP10), and output regulation (TP38/TP40), alongside hardware-enables for EN, FAULT, PG, and ALERT signals-allowing full functional and stability verification without external instrumentation beyond a DC supply and voltmeters.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20796DL3EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power delivery, telecom base station POL conversion, and industrial FPGA/ASIC core voltage regulation requiring stable component supply and fast time-to-test capability.

Supply support for MAX20796DL3EVKIT# 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 semiconductor solutions for power management, sensing, and communication applications.

The MAX20796 product line targets high-density, high-efficiency point-of-load (POL) regulation in datacenter and networking equipment, emphasizing thermal robustness, digital configurability, and multi-phase scalability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX20796DL3EVKIT#?

The MAX20796DL3EVKIT# is an evaluation platform for the MAX20796 two-phase and MAX20766 three-phase synchronous buck regulators. It provides a ready-to-use, fully assembled PCB with input/output connectivity, measurement points, and digital interface to accelerate characterization of efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and PMBus command compliance for the MAX20796 and MAX20766 devices.

Does the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# support both two-phase and three-phase operation out of the box?

No-the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# is configured by default for three-phase operation using the MAX20796 and MAX20766. The MAX20766 is included on the board (U6, Ref Des #83 in BOM) and populated per ordering option. For two-phase-only use, the MAX20766 must be removed or left uninstalled, and component values adjusted per schematic annotations in the user guide.

Can the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# be used to measure loop stability and bode plots?

Yes. The MAX20796DL3EVKIT# includes a dedicated 10Ω resistor between VOUT sense and SNSP, with test points TP3 and TP32 on either side-explicitly designed for small-signal injection and bode plot measurement. This allows direct evaluation of control-loop phase margin and gain crossover using a network analyzer.

What power supply requirements are needed to operate the MAX20796DL3EVKIT#?

A single 12V DC power supply capable of delivering ≥20A is required to operate the MAX20796DL3EVKIT# at full load. Input is connected via J5 (positive) and J8 (negative) banana jacks. The board also supports input voltages from 4.5V to 16V, but full-rated output current and thermal performance are validated at 12V input.

How is digital configuration and telemetry enabled on the MAX20796DL3EVKIT#?

Digital configuration and telemetry are enabled via the onboard PMBus header, which connects directly to the MAXPOWERTOOL002# dongle. This interface allows full read/write access to device registers-including output voltage setpoint, current limit, compensation coefficients, fault thresholds, and real-time telemetry (VIN, VOUT, IOUT, temperature)-using the MAXPowerTool GUI software.