Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38803EVKIT#

Overview

MAX38803EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX38803 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, differential remote sense with open-circuit detection, and programmable switching frequency (400–900kHz). The kit enables validation of PoL power delivery in GPU core and DDR memory supply applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38803EVKIT# datasheet, MAX38803EVKIT# pinout, MAX38803EVKIT# application, or MAX38803EVKIT# equivalent, this page provides verified hardware configuration details, jumper-based scenario selection, efficiency measurement methodology, bias supply options, and real-world test setup guidance for server, I/O chipset, and memory subsystem power validation.

Technical Context

The MAX38803EVKIT# implements the MAX38803 voltage regulator in its native 27-bump WLCSP (2.2mm × 3.8mm) package, preconfigured for 2.5V output using R6 = 4.32kΩ and R9 = 2.61kΩ feedback divider. It integrates an on-board MAX17651AZT+ LDO to generate 1.8V VCC bias, enabling single-supply operation via J4/J12 jumpers.

Hardware flexibility is achieved through configurable jumpers: J15 selects OE/STAT pull-up source (1.8V or VCC), J16 closes the remote sense loop, and R_SEL (R1 = 6.04kΩ) and C_SEL (C4 = 820pF) set valley OCP = 16A, FSW = 900kHz, and CCM/DCM operation mode per Table 1 of the reference design documentation.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX38803EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server/µServer power validation, GPU core supply characterization, DDR memory VDDQ/VTT testing, and point-of-load (PoL) system integration requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping support.

Supply support for MAX38803EVKIT# 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 industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX38803 product line targets high-current, low-voltage PoL regulation in space-constrained systems such as servers, AI accelerators, and memory subsystems-designed for fast transient response, high efficiency, and configurability across diverse load profiles.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX38803EVKIT#?

The MAX38803EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX38803 synchronous step-down regulator IC. It allows engineers to validate performance-including 2.5V/16A output, Quick-PWM™ transient response, differential remote sensing, and programmable frequency-in real-world conditions without custom PCB development. The MAX38803EVKIT# includes test points, banana jacks, and configurable jumpers for rapid characterization of PoL power delivery.

How is the output voltage set on the MAX38803EVKIT#?

The MAX38803EVKIT# is factory-preset to 2.5V using R6 = 4.32kΩ and R9 = 2.61kΩ in the feedback divider network. This setting follows Equation 1 from the reference documentation: VOUT = VREF × (1 + R6/R9). The internal reference voltage (VREF = 0.6V) is selected by R_SEL = 6.04kΩ (R1), and the board supports external VREF injection via dedicated circuitry shown in Figure 1 of the EV kit guide.

Can the MAX38803EVKIT# operate from a single 12V supply?

Yes-the MAX38803EVKIT# supports single-supply operation using a 12V input. Its on-board MAX17651AZT+ LDO generates the required 1.8V VCC bias for the MAX38803HCJ+. To enable this, install shunts on jumpers J4 (power LDO) and J12 (supply VCC from LDO). When disabled, an external 1.8V/0.1A supply must be connected to J12-2 and J10 to assert OE and power the regulator.

What jumpers control regulator enable and status reporting on the MAX38803EVKIT#?

Regulator enable (OE) is controlled via J15: installing a shunt on pins 4–6 pulls OE high to 1.8V through a 20kΩ resistor; installing on pins 2–4 forces OE low to shut down the device. Status reporting (STAT) uses the same J15 header: pins 3–5 pull STAT up to VCC, while pins 1–3 pull it up to 1.8V. STAT is open-drain and reports output undervoltage/overvoltage faults.

How do I measure efficiency using the MAX38803EVKIT#?

To measure efficiency with the MAX38803EVKIT#, connect a 12V supply to VDD1/GND1, use an external 1.8V supply for bias (J12-2 and J10), apply load to VOUT/GND jacks, close the sense loop with J16 (1–2), and remove all other jumpers. Measure VIN, IIN, VOUT, IOUT, VBIAS, and IBIAS simultaneously, then compute η = (VOUT × IOUT) / (VIN × IIN + VBIAS × IBIAS) per Equation 3 in the EV kit documentation.