Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX41460EVKIT#

Overview

The MAX41460EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX41460 UHF sub-GHz ISM/SRD transmitter IC, supporting OOK, ASK, FSK, and GFSK modulation across 286–960MHz. It enables rapid prototyping of low-power wireless links with programmable +13dBm output power, SPI interface, and fast PLL lock time (<50μs frequency switching), targeting RKE, TPMS, and IoT sensor nodes.

For engineers reviewing the MAX41460EVKIT# datasheet, MAX41460EVKIT# pinout, MAX41460EVKIT# application, or MAX41460EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides validated RF layout, calibrated antenna matching, register-level SPI control access, and full support for preset-free frequency programming - critical for evaluating battery-powered sub-GHz transmitters in building automation, remote keyless entry, and industrial telemetry designs.

Technical Context

The MAX41460EVKIT# implements the MAX41460 IC in a production-ready 10-pin µMAX package with verified 50Ω PA output matching, crystal oscillator circuitry (16MHz), and SPI-controlled register interface. It exposes all 10 pins via test points and headers, including DATA/SDI, SCLK, CSB, CLKOUT/SDO, XTAL1/XTAL2, PA, VDD, and dual ground planes (GND and GND_PA).

Designed for direct integration with microcontrollers, the kit supports both synchronous (baud-rate clock on CLKOUT) and asynchronous data transmission modes, includes onboard decoupling (100nF at VDD), and maintains full thermal performance within the -40°C to +105°C operating range of the MAX41460 IC.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAX41460EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor node development, RKE system validation, and TPMS prototype testing requiring stable component supply, traceable calibration, and documented RF performance.

Supply support for MAX41460EVKIT# 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 RF solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX4146x family - including the MAX41460 - was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, globally compliant sub-GHz wireless transmitters in security, telemetry, and battery-operated IoT endpoints.

FAQ

What is the MAX41460EVKIT# used for?

The MAX41460EVKIT# is an evaluation platform for the MAX41460 UHF transmitter IC. It allows engineers to validate RF performance, configure registers via SPI, measure output power and harmonics, and prototype complete wireless links - without designing custom PCBs. The kit includes a fully assembled board with matched antenna interface, crystal oscillator, and debug headers for immediate use with host microcontrollers.

Does the MAX41460EVKIT# include the MAX41460 IC?

Yes, the MAX41460EVKIT# includes one pre-mounted MAX41460 IC in a 10-pin µMAX package. The IC is soldered onto the board and fully integrated with the reference design - including crystal, matching network, decoupling capacitors, and ground plane separation - enabling out-of-box RF characterization and functional testing.

Can the MAX41460EVKIT# operate at 868MHz or 915MHz?

Yes, the MAX41460EVKIT# supports the full 286–960MHz frequency range of the MAX41460 IC. At 868MHz and 915MHz, it delivers +11dBm standard output (or +16dBm with PA_BOOST enabled and proper output matching), and maintains <50μs frequency switching time - confirmed by Maxim's EV Kit User's Guide and electrical validation reports.

What interfaces does the MAX41460EVKIT# expose?

The MAX41460EVKIT# exposes all digital and RF interfaces of the MAX41460 IC: 3-wire SPI (CSB, SCLK, DATA/SDI), CLKOUT/SDO, XTAL1/XTAL2, PA output, VDD, and separate GND/GND_PA grounds. Test points and 0.1"-spaced headers allow direct oscilloscope probing, logic analyzer capture, and microcontroller connection without soldering.

Is antenna matching included on the MAX41460EVKIT# board?

Yes, the MAX41460EVKIT# includes a fully optimized π-network matching circuit between the PA pin and the SMA antenna connector. This network is calibrated for 50Ω output impedance and supports both +13dBm (standard) and +16dBm (boosted) operation - eliminating the need for external tuning during initial evaluation.