Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX5090EVKIT

Overview

MAX5090EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX5090A/B/C 2A, 76V input, high-efficiency step-down DC-DC converter family. It supports fixed 3.3V/5V and adjustable 1.265V–11V output configurations, features internal 0.26Ω high-side DMOS FET, 127kHz fixed-frequency PWM with external synchronization capability, and operates across –40°C to +125°C. The kit enables rapid validation of automotive and industrial power supply designs requiring high-voltage buck conversion with low quiescent current (310µA no-load).

For engineers reviewing the MAX5090EVKIT datasheet, MAX5090EVKIT pinout, MAX5090EVKIT application, or MAX5090EVKIT equivalent, this kit provides a fully assembled, tested reference platform with onboard 100µH inductor, PDS5100H Schottky rectifier, 100µF output capacitor, and configurable feedback network - enabling immediate evaluation of load transient response, efficiency mapping, soft-start behavior, and thermal performance under real-world input voltage ranges (6.5V–76V).

Technical Context

The MAX5090EVKIT implements the MAX5090B variant (5V fixed output) in a 16-pin TQFN-EP package, using voltage-mode control with VIN feed-forward and internal frequency compensation. It supports both autonomous operation (SYNC tied to SGND) and system-level clock synchronization (119–200kHz), with automatic pulse-skipping mode at light loads to maintain >88% efficiency down to 10mA.

Key circuit-level features include programmable soft-start via external CSS capacitor (0.047µF default), ON/OFF logic control with 1.38V threshold and 100mV hysteresis, integrated thermal shutdown (+175°C trip), hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and undervoltage lockout (6.17V rising threshold). The board routes PGND and SGND separately but requires connection per design guidelines.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX5090EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment power supplies, industrial PLC I/O modules, distributed telecom power rails, and high-reliability embedded systems requiring stable component supply and fast time-to-test validation.

Supply support for MAX5090EVKIT 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 solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications applications.

The MAX5090EVKIT belongs to Maxim's MAXPower™ evaluation platform series, designed specifically to accelerate development of high-input-voltage DC-DC converters targeting harsh-environment applications where wide VIN range, low IQ, and robust protection are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX5090EVKIT?

The MAX5090EVKIT is a fully assembled evaluation kit for the MAX5090B 5V fixed-output, 2A, 76V-input synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It provides immediate hardware validation of electrical performance-including efficiency, load/line regulation, startup behavior, and thermal response-without requiring custom PCB design. The MAX5090EVKIT includes all critical external components: 100µH inductor, PDS5100H Schottky diode, 100µF output capacitor, and configurable soft-start and feedback networks.

Which MAX5090 variants does the MAX5090EVKIT support out-of-the-box?

The MAX5090EVKIT is configured and tested for the MAX5090B (5V fixed output) variant. However, it supports quick reconfiguration for MAX5090A (3.3V) and MAX5090C (adjustable 1.265V–11V) via jumper-selectable feedback resistors and optional SS capacitor changes. The board's schematic and layout accommodate all three variants per Maxim's EVKIT documentation, and pin compatibility across MAX5090A/B/C ensures no hardware modification is needed.

Does the MAX5090EVKIT include synchronization capability for noise-sensitive applications?

Yes, the MAX5090EVKIT exposes the SYNC pin and includes a test point for injecting an external clock signal between 119kHz and 200kHz. When an external clock meeting timing requirements (≥350ns pulse width) is applied for four consecutive cycles, the MAX5090B on the board automatically switches from its internal 127kHz oscillator to synchronize switching. This feature reduces EMI in systems sharing a master clock, such as automotive ADAS domain controllers or industrial motion drives.

How is thermal management implemented on the MAX5090EVKIT?

The MAX5090EVKIT uses the MAX5090B's 16-pin TQFN-EP package mounted directly to a large internal PGND copper plane with multiple thermal vias connecting to inner and bottom layers. The exposed pad (EP) is soldered to this plane, achieving a thermal resistance (θJA) of ~30°C/W per JEDEC 51 standards. At full 2A load and 48V input, surface temperature rise remains within 45°C above ambient, verified by IR imaging and consistent with the IC's 2.67W dissipation rating at +70°C.

Can the MAX5090EVKIT be used to evaluate light-load efficiency and PFM mode behavior?

Yes, the MAX5090EVKIT enables direct measurement of pulse-skipping (PFM) mode entry and exit. With its low 310µA no-load quiescent current and documented IPFM threshold (14–300mA depending on temperature), the kit allows engineers to characterize efficiency down to 100µA output current using standard bench equipment. Load transients from 100µA to 2A confirm seamless transition between PWM and PFM modes without output voltage overshoot or instability.