Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38908EVK#TDFN

Overview

MAX38908EVK#TDFN from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX38908ATD+, a 4A, low-headroom NMOS linear regulator in a 14-pin 3mm × 3mm TDFN package. It supports input voltage from 0.9V to 5.5V, bias voltage from 2.7V to 20V, resistor-configurable output (0.6V–5.0V), and delivers up to 4A output current with only 300mV dropout at full load - ideal for compact, high-current power rail validation in portable and space-constrained systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38908EVK#TDFN datasheet, MAX38908EVK#TDFN pinout, MAX38908EVK#TDFN application, or MAX38908EVK#TDFN equivalent, this EV kit enables rapid characterization of the MAX38908's regulation accuracy, POK signaling, EN control, bias-supplied FET drive, and thermal performance under real-world load and supply conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX38908EVK#TDFN implements the MAX38908ATD+ IC in its native 14-pin TDFN-EP package with verified 4-layer PCB layout optimized for thermal dissipation and low-noise LDO operation. It separates input (IN), bias (BIAS), and output (OUT) power paths, includes open-drain POK monitoring with default 100kΩ pull-up to VOUT, and uses jumper JU1 for hardware enable/disable control.

Hardware features include test points for IN, OUT, BIAS, GND, and POK; banana jack terminals for IN, BIAS, OUT, and GND; and pre-installed 1% feedback resistors (R1 = 10kΩ, R2 = 15kΩ) setting default VOUT = 1.0V. Output reconfiguration requires resistor replacement per MAX38908 datasheet calculations.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX38908EVK#TDFN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-current LDO evaluation, power rail validation, and thermal performance testing requiring stable component supply in portable electronics, industrial sensors, and FPGA/ASIC core voltage prototyping.

Supply support for MAX38908EVK#TDFN 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, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX38908 product line targets high-current, low-input-voltage linear regulation where minimal dropout, bias-assisted efficiency, and compact footprint are critical - especially in battery-powered and thermally constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX38908EVK#TDFN?

The MAX38908EVK#TDFN is a dedicated evaluation platform for the MAX38908ATD+ 4A NMOS LDO. It enables engineers to validate regulation accuracy, transient response, thermal behavior, POK signaling, and enable/bias functionality under real operating conditions - without designing custom PCBs. The MAX38908EVK#TDFN includes all necessary passive components, test points, and terminal blocks for immediate bench testing.

Does the MAX38908EVK#TDFN support adjustable output voltage?

Yes, the MAX38908EVK#TDFN supports resistor-configurable output from 0.6V to 5.0V. It ships with R1 = 10kΩ and R2 = 15kΩ, setting default VOUT = 1.0V. To change output voltage, replace both feedback resistors per the MAX38908 datasheet's calculation formula. The MAX38908EVK#TDFN schematic and BOM identify R1 and R2 locations and footprints for easy modification.

What power supplies are required to operate the MAX38908EVK#TDFN?

The MAX38908EVK#TDFN requires two independent DC supplies: a 5.5V, 5A source for the IN rail and a 2.7V–20V, ≥10mA source for the BIAS rail. The BIAS voltage must be at least 2V above the configured output voltage (e.g., ≥3.0V for 1.0V VOUT). These dual-rail requirements reflect the MAX38908's architecture, where BIAS powers the gate driver independently to maintain regulation at ultra-low VIN.

How is enable/disable controlled on the MAX38908EVK#TDFN?

Enable/disable is controlled via jumper JU1. With pins 1–2 shunted, EN is pulled to IN and the MAX38908ATD+ is enabled; with pins 2–3 shunted, EN is grounded and the device is disabled. This hardware-level control allows safe power sequencing and functional isolation during testing. The MAX38908EVK#TDFN documentation specifies JU1's default position as enabled (pins 1–2).

What is the purpose of the POK signal on the MAX38908EVK#TDFN?

The POK (Power OK) signal is an open-drain output indicating whether the MAX38908ATD+ is regulating within specification. On the MAX38908EVK#TDFN, POK is pulled up to VOUT via a 100kΩ resistor (R3) by default. It can be reconfigured to pull up to VIN or another external voltage by removing R3 and installing a resistor at R4. This feature enables system-level power sequencing and fault monitoring in host designs using the MAX38908.