Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38802EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX38802EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to validate the performance of the MAX38802 high-efficiency, 16A synchronous step-down switching regulator IC. It supports 2.5V output at up to 16A from a 6.5V–14V input, features Quick-PWM™ architecture for fast transient response, and includes programmable switching frequency (400–900kHz), differential remote sense, and open-drain STAT pin functionality.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38802EVKIT# datasheet, MAX38802EVKIT# pinout, MAX38802EVKIT# application, or MAX38802EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of PoL power delivery in GPU core, DDR memory (VDDQ/VTT), server µServer, and chipset supply designs - with jumper-configurable bias, enable, status, and scenario selection.

Technical Context

The MAX38802EVKIT# implements the MAX38802HCJ+ in its native 27-bump WLCSP (2.2mm × 3.8mm) package, interfacing via banana jacks (VDD1/GND1/VOUT), test points (J11/J13/J14), and configurable jumpers (J4/J12/J15/J16) to control LDO bias, OE enable, STAT pull-up, and sense-line closure. It uses ceramic input/output capacitors and a shielded 0.68µH inductor rated for 16A valley current.

Hardware-level programmability is achieved through R_SEL (R1 = 6.04kΩ) and C_SEL (C4 = 820pF) to select configuration scenarios per Table 1 - including 700/800/900kHz FSW, 16A OCP, CCM/DCM operation modes, and 6ms soft-start - all verified under 12V input and 2.5V/16A load conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX38802EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPU core supply validation, DDR memory VDDQ/VTT characterization, server µServer PoL development, and chipset power integrity testing requiring stable component supply and full hardware reference support.

Supply support for MAX38802EVKIT# 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 design leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management solutions for demanding industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX38802 product line delivers ultra-compact, high-current PoL regulation for datacenter and AI infrastructure, emphasizing fast transient response, efficiency across light-to-full load, and flexible configuration for GPU, memory, and processor rail requirements.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX38802EVKIT#?

The MAX38802EVKIT# is a ready-to-use evaluation platform for the MAX38802 synchronous buck regulator IC. It enables engineers to verify electrical performance - including 2.5V/16A output, Quick-PWM™ transient response, programmable frequency, and remote sensing - without custom PCB design. The MAX38802EVKIT# includes all necessary jumpers, test points, and connectors for immediate bench validation of the MAX38802 in real-world PoL applications.

Does the MAX38802EVKIT# support external voltage reference configuration?

Yes, the MAX38802EVKIT# supports external VREF operation via the SENSE− node, as shown in Figure 1 of the user guide. When enabled, the external reference (e.g., filtered via RF = 2.2kΩ and CF = 0.22µF) determines output voltage and soft-start ramp timing. The MAX38802EVKIT# provides dedicated pads and routing for this configuration, and the STAT pin behavior is synchronized to the external reference ramp to prevent false fault assertions during startup.

How is the 1.8V bias supply implemented on the MAX38802EVKIT#?

The MAX38802EVKIT# integrates a MAX17651AZT+ LDO (U2) that generates 1.8V for the MAX38802's VCC and OE/STAT pull-up circuits. This bias is activated by installing shunts on J4 (enable LDO) and J12 (route 1.8V to VCC). For accurate efficiency measurement, both jumpers are removed and an external 1.8V/0.1A supply is connected to J12-2 and J10-1, ensuring the LDO does not contribute to input power readings during testing of the MAX38802EVKIT#.

What configuration options are available for switching frequency and OCP on the MAX38802EVKIT#?

The MAX38802EVKIT# implements R_SEL (R1 = 6.04kΩ) and C_SEL (C4 = 820pF) to configure the MAX38802 for 800kHz switching frequency and 16A valley-current OCP limit, per Table 1. Other configurations - such as 700kHz (C_SEL = 0pF) or 900kHz (C_SEL = 200pF) - can be achieved by replacing C4; OCP scaling is directly set by R_SEL value, with 6.04kΩ corresponding to the 16A default used on the MAX38802EVKIT#.

Can the MAX38802EVKIT# be used to evaluate efficiency across load conditions?

Yes, the MAX38802EVKIT# supports full efficiency characterization from light to full load. Input (VDD1/GND1), output (VOUT/GND), and bias (J12-2/GND) voltage/current measurements are accessible via banana jacks and test points. The board includes Kelvin-sense connections (J11/J13 for VOUT, VDD1 headers for VIN), and instructions specify removing non-essential jumpers and using sense leads to minimize cable loss errors - enabling accurate η = (VOUT × IOUT) / (VIN × IIN + VBIAS × IBIAS) calculation across the full 0–16A range of the MAX38802EVKIT#.