Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX38908EVK#WLP

Overview

MAX38908EVK#WLP from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit designed to characterize the MAX38908ANL+, a 4A, low-headroom NMOS linear regulator in WLP15 (5×3 bump, 0.4mm pitch) package. It supports input voltage from 0.9V to 5.5V, bias voltage from 2.7V to 20V, and delivers up to 4A output current with resistor-configurable output voltage from 0.6V to 5.0V (default 1V). The kit enables validation of thermal performance, regulation accuracy, and POK functionality under real load conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAX38908EVK#WLP datasheet, MAX38908EVK#WLP pinout, MAX38908EVK#WLP application, or MAX38908EVK#WLP equivalent, this EV kit provides immediate hardware access to verify MAX38908ANL+ behavior across its full input/bias range, evaluate layout best practices for high-current LDOs, and validate feedback network design for custom output voltages.

Technical Context

The MAX38908EVK#WLP implements a proven 4-layer, 1-oz copper PCB layout optimized for low-noise, high-current LDO operation. It integrates the MAX38908ANL+ IC with precision 1% feedback resistors (R1 = 10kΩ, R2 = 15kΩ), a 100kΩ pull-up on the open-drain POK signal, and jumper JU1 for EN control (shunt pins 1–2 for enable, 2–3 for disable).

Hardware features include banana jack terminals for IN, BIAS, OUT, and GND; test points for POK, TP_OUT, and TP_GND; and provisioned pads for optional capacitor and resistor modifications. The board accepts a 5.5V/5A DC input and a separate 3V–20V bias supply, enabling evaluation of the regulator's ultra-low headroom (300mV at 4A) and bias-dependent efficiency.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX38908EVK#WLP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power management validation, LDO characterization, and high-current analog subsystem design requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping support, and production-ready reference layouts.

Supply support for MAX38908EVK#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 communications applications.

The MAX38908EVK#WLP belongs to Maxim's high-performance LDO evaluation platform family, developed specifically to accelerate adoption of ultra-low-headroom, high-current regulators in space-constrained and thermally sensitive systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX38908EVK#WLP?

The MAX38908EVK#WLP is a fully assembled evaluation kit that enables hardware validation of the MAX38908ANL+ 4A NMOS LDO regulator. It allows engineers to measure output regulation accuracy, thermal behavior, POK response, and enable/disable sequencing under real-world input, bias, and load conditions without designing custom PCBs.

Does the MAX38908EVK#WLP include the MAX38908 IC?

Yes, the MAX38908EVK#WLP ships with the MAX38908ANL+ installed - a 4A, low-headroom linear regulator in WLP15 package. The board is preconfigured for 1V output using 1% tolerance feedback resistors R1 (10kΩ) and R2 (15kΩ), and supports reconfiguration to any voltage between 0.6V and 5.0V by replacing those resistors.

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

The MAX38908EVK#WLP requires two independent DC supplies: a 5.5V/5A source connected to IN and GND, and a 2.7V–20V bias supply (≥2V above desired VOUT) connected to BIAS and GND. For the default 1V output, BIAS must be ≥3.0V. Both supplies must be connected before enabling power.

How is the enable function implemented on the MAX38908EVK#WLP?

The MAX38908EVK#WLP uses jumper JU1 to control the EN pin of the MAX38908ANL+. With shunt on pins 1–2, EN is tied to BIAS (enabled); with shunt on pins 2–3, EN is grounded (disabled). This matches the MAX38908's requirement that EN be pulled above 1.2V to activate regulation - verified by the default 1–2 configuration.

Can the POK signal on the MAX38908EVK#WLP be used with external logic?

Yes, the POK signal on the MAX38908EVK#WLP is an open-drain output with a default 100kΩ pull-up to VOUT. To interface with external logic operating at different voltage levels (e.g., 3.3V or 5V), remove R3 and install a pull-up resistor to the target supply rail. The POK asserts low when output voltage deviates beyond ±3% of the programmed value, per MAX38908 specification.