Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38801EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX38801EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit designed to demonstrate and validate the MAX38801 15A step-down switching regulator - a fully integrated, high-efficiency DC-DC converter operating from 6.5V–14V input and delivering precision outputs down to 0.6V with fast transient response. It supports programmable switching frequency (up to 900kHz), dual-mode operation (CCM/DCM), and analog current/temperature telemetry via the PGM pin.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38801EVKIT# datasheet, MAX38801EVKIT# pinout, MAX38801EVKIT# application, or MAX38801EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid characterization of output regulation accuracy, load-transient performance (±3% dynamic load regulation), OCP/OVP fault behavior, remote sensing functionality, and thermal reporting fidelity under real-world PoL conditions including GPU core and DDR memory supply validation.

Technical Context

The MAX38801EVKIT# implements the MAX38801 IC in its native 19-ball WLCSP (2.2mm × 2.8mm) package mounted on a 4-layer PCB with optimized power delivery layout, ceramic input/output capacitors, and 200nH/680nH inductor options. It supports both internal and external reference configurations, differential remote sense with open-circuit detection, and Quick-PWM™ architecture for sub-10µs load-step response.

Key design features include programmable soft-start (1.5–6ms), adjustable positive/negative cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection (±12A to ±18A), ±5% current reporting and ±8°C junction temperature reporting via PGM, and status monitoring through the open-drain STAT pin with 128µs delay from regulation completion to assertion.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAX38801EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server power validation, GPU core supply prototyping, DDR memory rail qualification, and point-of-load (PoL) design verification requiring stable component supply and traceable evaluation hardware.

Supply support for MAX38801EVKIT# 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 demanding applications in data centers, industrial systems, and communications infrastructure.

The MAX38801EVKIT# belongs to Maxim's high-current PoL evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate development of efficient, reliable, and thermally optimized power delivery for advanced computing loads including AI accelerators and multi-core processors.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX38801EVKIT#?

The MAX38801EVKIT# is an evaluation kit for the MAX38801 15A step-down switching regulator. It provides a fully assembled, tested PCB with optimized layout, component selection, and test points to enable engineers to characterize regulation accuracy, transient response, protection behavior, and telemetry functionality of the MAX38801 IC under real operating conditions - including GPU core and DDR memory supply use cases.

Does the MAX38801EVKIT# support both CCM and DCM operation modes?

Yes, the MAX38801EVKIT# fully supports both continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) as configured by the MAX38801 IC. DCM can be enabled via pin-strapping to improve light-load efficiency - achieving up to 94% efficiency at 1A - and the kit includes necessary jumpers and component options to validate mode transitions and associated frequency scaling down to 30kHz minimum.

Can the MAX38801EVKIT# be used to evaluate remote sensing performance?

Yes, the MAX38801EVKIT# implements differential remote sensing using SENSE+ and SENSE− pins with Kelvin connections to the load. It validates <±0.5% load regulation and detects open-circuit faults on the sense lines - essential for accurate voltage delivery in high-current, distributed PCB layouts typical of server and GPU applications where plane resistance causes significant IR drop.

How does the MAX38801EVKIT# support overcurrent and overvoltage protection testing?

The MAX38801EVKIT# enables direct observation and measurement of MAX38801's protection responses: STAT pin assertion during OVP (>13% above setpoint), UVP (<9% below setpoint), and cycle-by-cycle OCP (programmable ±12–18A). It includes test points for VX, IL, and STAT waveforms, allowing engineers to verify fault timing (e.g., 30µs OVP deglitch), latch behavior, and OE-triggered fault clearing - all per MAX38801's documented specifications.

Is analog current or temperature reporting accessible on the MAX38801EVKIT#?

Yes, the MAX38801EVKIT# exposes the PGM pin to allow direct measurement of the MAX38801's analog telemetry output. When configured, PGM reports either output current (±5% accuracy from 0–15A) or junction temperature (±8°C accuracy from 0–150°C). The kit includes header access and documentation for configuring R_SEL/C_SEL to select reporting mode and scale - enabling real-time thermal and load monitoring in PoL designs.