Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5060EVKIT

Overview

The MAX5060EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled evaluation kit designed to demonstrate the MAX5060 single-phase PWM DC-DC controller, delivering a regulated +3.3V output at up to 20A from a +12V input, operating at 270kHz with up to 93% efficiency and supporting remote voltage sensing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5060EVKIT datasheet, MAX5060EVKIT pinout, MAX5060EVKIT application, or MAX5060EVKIT equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-current, current-mode synchronous buck converter designs with adaptive voltage positioning, reverse-current limiting, and external clock synchronization capability.

Technical Context

The MAX5060EVKIT implements the MAX5060 controller in a compact 1.65in × 1.05in surface-mount layout, using average current-mode control to ensure precise current limit accuracy and seamless parallel operation across multiple modules. It integrates differential remote sensing (SENSE+ / SENSE−) and an internal regulator supporting dual input ranges (+4.75V to +5.5V or +7V to +28V).

This kit supports full functional evaluation of key features including CLKIN/CLKOUT synchronization (up to 1.5MHz), power-good signaling, enable control, overvoltage protection, and output current monitoring via V_IOUT (0.135 × I_LOAD). Thermal management requires 400LFM airflow and an aluminum heatsink for operation across 0°C to +70°C.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX5060EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-current DC-DC converter development, power supply module validation, and multi-rail server/telecom power architecture prototyping requiring stable component supply and pre-tested reference hardware.

Supply support for MAX5060EVKIT 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 ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX5060EVKIT belongs to Maxim's high-current DC-DC controller evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate design-in of scalable, synchronized, current-mode buck converters for enterprise power systems.

FAQ

What does the MAX5060EVKIT evaluate?

The MAX5060EVKIT evaluates the MAX5060 current-mode PWM DC-DC controller IC. It provides a complete, tested hardware implementation-including MOSFETs, inductor, sense resistors, and thermal solution-to validate performance metrics such as 20A output current, 270kHz switching, 93% efficiency, remote sensing, and CLKIN/CLKOUT synchronization. The MAX5060EVKIT is not a standalone power supply but a reference design for the MAX5060 controller.

Can the output voltage of the MAX5060EVKIT be adjusted?

Yes, the MAX5060EVKIT's output voltage is adjustable from +0.6V to +5.5V (when VIN > 7V) by modifying the resistor divider formed by R16 and R17. The default configuration sets +3.3V output. The design equation V_OUT = 0.6 × (1 + R16/R17) applies, and recommended resistor values are between 1kΩ and 10kΩ for optimal accuracy and noise immunity. This adjustment directly configures the MAX5060 controller's feedback network.

Does the MAX5060EVKIT support synchronization with other converters?

Yes, the MAX5060EVKIT supports full clock synchronization: it accepts an external clock signal on SYNC/ON (J1 Pin 1) and provides a 180° phase-delayed CLKOUT (J1 Pin 6) to drive a second out-of-phase converter. This reduces input capacitor ripple current and improves system-level EMI. The MAX5060EVKIT demonstrates the MAX5060's native synchronization capability up to 1.5MHz, enabling multi-phase interleaved designs without additional timing ICs.

How is remote voltage sensing implemented on the MAX5060EVKIT?

The MAX5060EVKIT implements remote voltage sensing using dedicated SENSE+ (VOUT_SENSE, J1 Pin 8) and SENSE− (J1 Pin 7) connections to compensate for IR drop in high-current output paths. When enabled, the MAX5060 controller regulates voltage at the load terminals rather than at the board output pads-critical for maintaining ±1% regulation under 20A load. This feature is integral to the MAX5060's differential sensing architecture and is validated on the MAX5060EVKIT with direct header access.

What thermal requirements apply to the MAX5060EVKIT?

The MAX5060EVKIT requires 400LFM airflow and a specified aluminum heatsink (0.40in × 0.40in × 1.65in) to sustain 20A output current across 0°C to +70°C ambient. Without forced airflow and heatsink, derating is necessary. The board's thermal design centers on U1 (MAX5060ETI+) and the two Si7866DP MOSFETs (N1/N2), with double-sided thermal tape ensuring interface reliability. This thermal profile reflects real-world deployment constraints of the MAX5060 controller in dense power modules.