Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX77533AEVKIT#

Overview

MAX77533AEVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX77533 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter, supporting 3V–14V input, 1.5A continuous output, and adjustable output voltage (0.8V–5V internal feedback or 1.55V–99% VIN external feedback). It integrates USB-to-I²C communication, dual-range electronic load (10mA/2.56A), and GUI-controlled register access for rapid buck converter characterization in power supply design labs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX77533AEVKIT# datasheet, MAX77533AEVKIT# pinout, MAX77533AEVKIT# application, or MAX77533AEVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables hands-on validation of transient response, efficiency mapping, soft-start timing (1ms), SKIP mode operation, active discharge (enabled), and I²C register programming - all without custom PCB development.

Technical Context

The MAX77533AEVKIT# implements the MAX77533AEWC+ IC in external feedback configuration with fixed R3 = 10kΩ and R4 = 3.24kΩ, yielding a default no-load output of 3.34V at 12V input. It features a 4.7μH inductor (2520 case), on-board MAX3395 level translator for 1.8V/3.3V I²C bus voltage selection, and MAX5805 DAC + MAX44251 op-amp driving an IRF3704ZSPBF MOSFET-based electronic load.

Hardware control is provided via jumpers (J1/J2/J6) for EN, BIASEN, and POK signals, while software control uses Windows GUI over micro-B USB (J103) to configure registers including MODE (SKIP enabled), tSS (1ms), ILX-PEAK (2A), and ADEN (active discharge enabled). The board supports both steady-state and programmable transient loading profiles.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX77533AEVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC-DC converter qualification, and embedded system power architecture prototyping requiring stable component supply and full technical support.

Supply support for MAX77533AEVKIT# 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 MAX77533 evaluation kit belongs to Maxim's power management evaluation platform family, designed to accelerate development of compact, high-efficiency buck converters for space-constrained battery-powered and wide-input systems.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage of the MAX77533AEVKIT#?

The MAX77533AEVKIT# is configured with the MAX77533AEWC+ IC in external feedback mode using R3 = 10kΩ and R4 = 3.24kΩ, resulting in a default no-load output voltage of 3.34V when supplied with 12V input. This value is verified per Table 2 in the official documentation and reflects the precise resistor ratio applied on the evaluation board.

Does the MAX77533AEVKIT# support internal feedback configuration?

No - the MAX77533AEVKIT# ships with the external feedback version (MAX77533AEWC+) preinstalled and configured with populated R3 and R4. To evaluate internal feedback behavior, users must replace U1 with an internal-feedback variant (e.g., MAX77533BEWC33+) and modify R3 to 0Ω and R4 to open, as specified in the hardware reconfiguration section of the user guide.

How does the electronic load on the MAX77533AEVKIT# operate?

The MAX77533AEVKIT# features a dual-range electronic load driven by a MAX5805 DAC and MAX44251 op-amp, controlling an IRF3704ZSPBF MOSFET. It offers 10mA range (49.9Ω sense resistor, 2.5μA resolution) for light-load DCM/SKIP analysis and 2.56A range (0.2Ω sense resistor, 0.625mA resolution) for full 1.5A load testing and overload simulation.

Can the MAX77533AEVKIT# be powered solely via USB?

Yes - installing jumper J102 connects VUSB (5V from micro-B port J103) to VSUP through Schottky diode D1, enabling full GUI operation and basic regulator functionality without an external supply. However, J102 must be removed before applying any external input voltage to prevent backfeed and potential damage to the USB host.

What I²C address does the MAX77533AEVKIT# use by default?

The MAX77533AEVKIT# uses I²C 8-bit write address 0x24 (0b0100100), corresponding to the MAX77533AEWC+ device with ADDR pin grounded. This address is hard-coded in the onboard EEPROM and confirmed in the Schematic and GUI Synchronize window - no address configuration is required for initial connection.