Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5080EVKIT

Overview

MAX5080EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX5080 1A, 40V step-down DC-DC converter IC with integrated 0.3Ω high-side MOSFET, 250kHz fixed-frequency PWM control, and programmable UVLO/soft-start - designed to validate power supply designs in industrial and distributed power applications operating from 4.5V to 40V input.

For engineers reviewing the MAX5080EVKIT datasheet, MAX5080EVKIT board layout, MAX5080EVKIT test procedure, or MAX5080EVKIT compatible ICs, this kit provides verified reference schematics, component placement guidance, thermal performance data, and full design validation support for the MAX5080 buck regulator under real-world load, line, and temperature conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX5080EVKIT implements the MAX5080's voltage-mode buck architecture with external compensation network, synchronous bootstrap gate drive (BST/C+/C−), and full protection suite including cycle-by-cycle current limit, hiccup-mode short-circuit response, and thermal shutdown at +160°C. It supports input synchronization via SYNC pin and automatic pulse-skip mode transition below 200mA load.

Board-level features include adjustable output (1.23V–32V) using FB resistive divider, soft-start timing set by SS-to-SGND capacitor, ON/OFF sequencing control, and validated 5mm × 5mm TQFN-16 footprint with exposed pad thermal management - all aligned to JEDEC 51 thermal standards and Maxim's recommended layout practices.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX5080EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, distributed power architecture prototyping, and embedded system DC-DC design verification requiring stable component supply, full thermal characterization, and production-ready reference implementation.

Supply support for MAX5080EVKIT 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, automotive, and communications systems.

The MAX5080EVKIT belongs to Maxim's MAXPower™ DC-DC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate development of robust, high-efficiency buck converters for harsh-environment applications demanding wide-input-voltage operation and comprehensive fault protection.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX5080EVKIT?

The MAX5080EVKIT is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the MAX5080 1A step-down DC-DC converter. It enables rapid validation of power supply designs by providing access to all critical signals (FB, COMP, SYNC, ON/OFF, SS), pre-optimized passive components, thermal measurement points, and documented test procedures - directly supporting engineering decisions on loop stability, efficiency, transient response, and thermal margin before final PCB spin.

Does the MAX5080EVKIT support both MAX5080 and MAX5081 devices?

No - the MAX5080EVKIT is specifically configured for the MAX5080, which includes the internal charge pump (C+/C− pins) and supports 4.5V minimum input. The MAX5081 lacks the charge pump circuitry and requires different bootstrap configuration; Maxim provides separate evaluation hardware (e.g., MAX5081EVKIT) for that variant. Using MAX5081 on MAX5080EVKIT is not supported due to pinout and biasing differences.

How is output voltage adjusted on the MAX5080EVKIT?

Output voltage on the MAX5080EVKIT is set via a precision resistive divider connected between VOUT and FB, with the center tap grounded. The FB pin regulates to 1.228V ±13mV; typical factory configuration delivers 5V, but users can replace R3/R4 to achieve any value from 1.23V to 32V. The board includes test points and solder jumpers to facilitate quick reconfiguration without component removal.

What thermal performance data is provided with the MAX5080EVKIT?

The MAX5080EVKIT documentation includes measured junction-to-ambient (θJA = 30°C/W) and junction-to-case (θJC = 1.7°C/W) thermal resistance values, validated power dissipation limits (2666.7mW at TA = +70°C), and thermal imaging results across –40°C to +125°C ambient. These data confirm the board meets JEDEC 51 standards and enable accurate thermal modeling for end-equipment mechanical integration.

Can the MAX5080EVKIT be synchronized to an external clock?

Yes - the MAX5080EVKIT exposes the SYNC pin with appropriate AC-coupling and termination provisions. When driven with a clean 150kHz–350kHz CMOS-level clock signal, the board synchronizes the MAX5080's internal oscillator to the external source, eliminating beat frequencies in multi-rail systems and enabling EMI reduction through frequency dithering or fixed-frequency alignment across multiple converters.