Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX20808TEVKIT#

Overview

MAX20808TEVKIT# from Analog Devices is an evaluation kit designed to validate the dual-output, 4A-per-rail step-down DC-DC switching regulator ICs MAX20808 and MAX20808T in real-world power delivery applications. It supports both independent dual-output operation (1V/1.8V default) and single-output dual-phase mode (up to 8A), features a 2.7V–16V input range, 1000kHz/2000kHz programmable switching frequencies, and ships fully assembled with test points, jumpers, and edge connectors for rapid prototyping.

For engineers reviewing the MAX20808TEVKIT# datasheet, MAX20808TEVKIT# pinout, MAX20808TEVKIT# application, or MAX20808TEVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables fast validation of high-efficiency, compact power conversion in FPGA, SoC, and multi-rail embedded systems - including output voltage selection, soft-start timing, PGOOD monitoring, Bode plot characterization, and efficiency measurement under load.

Technical Context

The MAX20808TEVKIT# implements the MAX20808T IC in a 21-pin FC2QFN package (3.5mm × 4.6mm, 0.5mm pitch), supporting two independent buck regulators or one dual-phase buck stage. It integrates fixed 0.5V internal reference, resistor-programmable output voltages via feedback dividers, and configurable PGMx pins for frequency and loop compensation settings.

Board-level features include dedicated test points for VIN (TP5/TP6), VOUT (J2/J3), LX switching nodes (TP3/TP9), and Bode plot injection (TP13/TP14, TP28/TP16). Dual-phase configuration requires hardware rework: shorting outputs with 0Ω resistors (R2/R44/R45/R48), disconnecting rail 2 sense (R13 removal), and pulling SNSP2 to AVDD (R34 installation).

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX20808TEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power sequencing, multi-core processor core/logic rail evaluation, and compact DC-DC converter design requiring stable component supply, proven layout, and full test point accessibility.

Supply support for MAX20808TEVKIT# 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, industrial automation, communications, and automotive markets.

The MAX20808TEVKIT# belongs to Analog Devices' high-density power management evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate adoption of compact, efficient, and configurable DC-DC solutions for space-constrained, multi-rail embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX20808TEVKIT#?

The MAX20808TEVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation kit for the MAX20808T dual-output buck regulator IC. It enables engineers to validate performance metrics-including efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and stability-under real operating conditions. The MAX20808TEVKIT# supports both independent dual-rail operation (4A per rail) and dual-phase single-rail mode (up to 8A), with built-in test points, jumpers, and configurable feedback networks for rapid iteration.

Does the MAX20808TEVKIT# support dual-phase operation out of the box?

No - dual-phase operation requires hardware modification of the MAX20808TEVKIT#. Specifically, users must install 0Ω resistors at R2, R44, R45, and R48 to short the outputs, remove R13 to isolate rail 2's sense line, install a 0Ω resistor at R34 to pull SNSP2 to AVDD, and use identical inductors for L1 and L2. The MAX20808TEVKIT# ships preconfigured for dual-output mode with 1V/1.8V default outputs.

How is output voltage set on the MAX20808TEVKIT#?

Output voltage on the MAX20808TEVKIT# is set via external resistor dividers connected to the FB1/FB2 pins of the MAX20808T IC, leveraging its internal 0.5V reference. The default configuration yields 1V on rail 1 and 1.8V on rail 2. Engineers can recalculate RFB1/RFB2 values using VOUT = 0.5V × (1 + RFB1/RFB2) and replace onboard resistors (e.g., R9/R10 for rail 1, R12/R25 for rail 2) to achieve custom output voltages within the 0.5V–5.8V range.

What test points are provided for efficiency measurement on the MAX20808TEVKIT#?

The MAX20808TEVKIT# provides dedicated test points TP5 (VIN_EFF_P) and TP6 (VIN_EFF_N) for accurate input voltage sensing during efficiency testing, minimizing lead resistance errors. Output voltage is measured at J2 (VOUT1) and J3 (VOUT2) for dual-output mode, or at either J2 or J3 in dual-phase mode. These points are isolated from loading paths to ensure measurement integrity without affecting regulation.

Can the MAX20808TEVKIT# be used to characterize loop stability?

Yes - the MAX20808TEVKIT# includes Bode plot test points for both rails: TP13/TP14 straddle a 10Ω resistor in the VOUT1 feedback path, and TP28/TP16 do the same for VOUT2. This allows direct injection of small-signal AC stimuli and measurement of open-loop gain/phase margin using a network analyzer or Bode 100 instrument - enabling empirical verification of compensation network design and stability margins per the MAX20808T datasheet guidelines.