Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38642AEVK#WLP

Overview

MAX38642AEVK#WLP from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the MAX38642A ultra-low quiescent current step-down DC-DC converter in 6-pin wafer-level package (WLP). It supports 1.8V–5.5V input, delivers up to 350mA output current, and enables resistor-configurable output voltages from 1.0V to 3.3V - ideal for battery-powered IoT sensors and wearable power management.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38642AEVK#WLP datasheet, MAX38642AEVK#WLP pinout, MAX38642AEVK#WLP application, or MAX38642AEVK#WLP equivalent, this EV kit provides verified 2-layer PCB layout, jumper-selectable enable control (JU1) and output voltage (JU2), and on-board test points for real-time voltage/current validation under varying load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX38642AEVK#WLP implements the MAX38642AENT+ IC in its native 6-pin WLP (package code N60E1+1), with integrated 2.2µH shielded inductor (L1) and dual inductor option (L1A) for solution size optimization. Input filtering uses three 22µF X5R ceramic capacitors (C1–C3) and one 100µF organic polymer capacitor (C5).

Jumper JU1 configures EN functionality (enabled / externally controlled / disabled); JU2 selects fixed output voltages (1.0V, 1.5V, 1.8V default, 3.3V) or enables RSEL-based fine-tuning down to 0.7V. All components are RoHS-compliant and mounted on a proven 1oz copper 2-layer board.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX38642AEVK#WLP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered sensor nodes, portable medical monitors, and low-power industrial telemetry requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping validation, and reference design fidelity.

Supply support for MAX38642AEVK#WLP 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 power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and computing applications.

The MAX38642A product line targets ultra-low-power battery-operated systems where nanoscale quiescent current and minimal solution size are critical - enabling multi-year operation from coin cells or energy-harvesting sources.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX38642AEVK#WLP?

The MAX38642AEVK#WLP is a ready-to-use evaluation platform for the MAX38642A buck converter. It allows engineers to verify performance metrics - including startup behavior, load regulation, efficiency, and transient response - under real-world input/output conditions without custom PCB design. The MAX38642AEVK#WLP includes all necessary passives, jumpers, and test points to accelerate validation of the MAX38642A in ultra-low-power applications.

Does the MAX38642AEVK#WLP support adjustable output voltage beyond the jumper settings?

Yes. While jumpers JU2 provide discrete outputs (1.0V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 3.3V), the MAX38642AEVK#WLP also supports fine-grained adjustment from 0.7V to 3.3V using external resistor R1 (DNP by default). This configuration follows the MAX38642A's RSEL feedback network as defined in its datasheet, allowing precise tuning for specific MCU core or sensor rail requirements on the MAX38642AEVK#WLP.

What is the role of the spare inductor (L1A) on the MAX38642AEVK#WLP?

The spare inductor L1A (DFE201612E-2R2M, 2.2µH, 1.8A) is mounted on the bottom side of the MAX38642AEVK#WLP PCB. It offers an alternative magnetic component with smaller footprint (0806) and lower profile than the top-side L1 (74437324022, 0806-equivalent but shielded). Swapping to L1A reduces overall solution height and area - a validated option for space-constrained designs using the MAX38642AEVK#WLP as a layout reference.

Can the MAX38642AEVK#WLP be used to evaluate EN control timing and sequencing?

Yes. Jumper JU1 on the MAX38642AEVK#WLP provides three EN configurations: enabled (1–2), externally controlled via TTL-level EXT_EN signal (1–3), or disabled (1–4). This allows direct observation of enable delay, startup time, and power-good assertion using oscilloscope probes on TP5 (IN), TP7 (OUT), and the EXT_EN test point - essential for validating power sequencing in multi-rail systems with the MAX38642AEVK#WLP.

Is the MAX38642AEVK#WLP compatible with standard lab equipment?

Yes. The MAX38642AEVK#WLP interfaces directly with common lab instruments: a 5.5V/3A DC supply connects to terminal posts IN/GND; a 350mA electronic load connects to OUT/GND; and a digital voltmeter measures output voltage across TP7/TP6. No adapters or interface boards are required - the MAX38642AEVK#WLP is optimized for immediate bench testing with off-the-shelf equipment.