Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2170EVKIT+

Overview

MAX2170EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX2170 direct-conversion to low-IF tuner IC, designed for DAB/T-DMB/FM digital radio receivers operating across VHF-III (168–240MHz), L-Band (1452–1492MHz), and FM (87–108MHz). It delivers 3.5dB noise figure in VHF-III, -100dBm sensitivity, and integrated sigma-delta fractional-N synthesizer with 2.048MHz balanced baseband output.

For engineers reviewing the MAX2170EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX2170EVKIT+ pinout, MAX2170EVKIT+ application, or MAX2170EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of RF front-end performance, AGC loop behavior, reference clock distribution, and baseband interface timing in portable and automotive digital audio broadcast systems.

Technical Context

The MAX2170EVKIT+ implements a complete test platform for the MAX2170 tuner IC, supporting all three frequency bands via switchable RF input paths and calibrated matching networks. It provides access to critical analog baseband outputs (I/Q), digital ACPR measurement points (+45dB), and RF AGC control signals tied to the on-chip overload detector.

Board-level design includes a 6mm × 6mm 40-pin TQFN-exposed paddle footprint for the MAX2170, crystal oscillator circuitry for 26MHz or 32MHz operation, and buffered reference clock output at fundamental frequency - matching the MAX2170's specific clock architecture (distinct from MAX2171's 1/3× output).

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX2170EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DAB receiver development, T-DMB demodulator integration, and FM hybrid digital radio prototyping requiring stable component supply and repeatable RF characterization.

Supply support for MAX2170EVKIT+ 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 RF ICs for communications, industrial, and automotive applications.

The MAX2170EVKIT+ belongs to Maxim's wireless RF tuner evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of high-performance, low-power digital audio broadcast receivers.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX2170EVKIT+?

The MAX2170EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit that enables full characterization and system integration testing of the MAX2170 direct-conversion to low-IF tuner IC. It provides calibrated RF input paths, accessible I/Q baseband outputs, AGC control interfaces, and reference clock distribution - all configured to match the MAX2170's triple-band (VHF-III/L-Band/FM), 2.048MHz low-IF architecture.

Does the MAX2170EVKIT+ support both MAX2170 and MAX2171 tuner ICs?

No. The MAX2170EVKIT+ is specifically designed for the MAX2170, which outputs a buffered reference clock at the crystal fundamental frequency. The MAX2171 outputs at 1/3× the crystal frequency and requires different clock buffer configuration - Maxim provides separate evaluation kits (e.g., MAX2171EVKIT+) for that variant.

Can the MAX2170EVKIT+ be used to measure ACPR performance?

Yes. The MAX2170EVKIT+ includes designated test points and layout provisions enabling accurate +45dB digital ACPR measurement per the MAX2170 datasheet. This capability supports verification of adjacent-channel power rejection in OFDM-based DAB/T-DMB signal environments.

What RF input frequency bands does the MAX2170EVKIT+ validate?

The MAX2170EVKIT+ validates all three operational bands of the MAX2170: VHF-III (168–240MHz), L-Band (1452–1492MHz), and FM (87–108MHz). Band selection is implemented via onboard RF switches and impedance-matched input networks calibrated for each range.

Is the MAX2170EVKIT+ compatible with standard demodulator evaluation platforms?

Yes. The MAX2170EVKIT+ delivers balanced 2.048MHz I/Q baseband outputs with DC-coupled differential signaling, aligned to industry-standard interface levels for DAB/T-DMB demodulators such as the MAX2170's intended partners - including STMicroelectronics' STi5518 and NXP's TDA18271-based reference designs.