Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX77720EVKIT#

Overview

MAX77720EVKIT# from Analog Devices is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX77720 dual-output DC-DC converter IC, supporting adjustable positive (BST) and negative (IBB) voltage generation, I²C register control, nERR fault signaling, and onboard electronic load testing with steady-state, transient, and random modes.

For engineers reviewing the MAX77720EVKIT# datasheet, MAX77720EVKIT# setup procedure, MAX77720EVKIT# GUI software operation, or MAX77720EVKIT# hardware interface requirements, this kit provides direct access to all MAX77720 registers via Windows-based GUI, supports 1.2V/1.8V/3.3V I/O logic levels, includes on-board sense points for accurate efficiency measurement, and enables rapid validation of dual-polarity power sequencing in portable and space-constrained systems.

Technical Context

The MAX77720EVKIT# implements a complete test platform for the MAX77720 PMIC, featuring two independent switching regulators - a boost (BST) output configurable up to +5.5V and an inverting buck-boost (IBB) output adjustable down to –24V - both controlled via I²C through the included MAXUSB_INTERFACE# adapter board.

Hardware-level configuration is managed via 11 user-accessible jumpers (J1–J13), enabling EN/nERR pin state selection, VIO sourcing (1.2V/1.8V/3.3V), electronic load routing (BST/IBB), and feedback resistor connections; the onboard AD8619 op-amp and MAX5815 DAC support precision load current programming across multiple dynamic modes.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX77720EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, industrial handheld instruments, battery-powered test equipment, and low-power IoT sensor nodes requiring stable component supply and rapid power architecture validation.

Supply support for MAX77720EVKIT# 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing (DSP) technologies, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets with precision power, sensing, and connectivity solutions.

The MAX77720EVKIT# belongs to Analog Devices' precision power management evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development of compact, dual-polarity DC-DC systems for space- and power-constrained applications where regulated positive and negative rails are required.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX77720EVKIT#?

The MAX77720EVKIT# is a ready-to-use evaluation platform for the MAX77720 dual-output PMIC. It enables full functional validation of the IC's boost (BST) and inverting buck-boost (IBB) regulators, including I²C register configuration, fault monitoring via nERR, and dynamic load testing. The MAX77720EVKIT# includes pre-assembled circuitry, onboard electronic loads, and Windows GUI software to streamline power architecture prototyping without custom PCB design.

Does the MAX77720EVKIT# require external hardware to operate?

Yes - the MAX77720EVKIT# requires the MAXUSB_INTERFACE# board (sold separately) to establish I²C communication with a Windows PC, plus a 3.6V input supply (100mA current-limited), USB Type-A to Micro-USB cable, and optionally digital multimeters for voltage/current verification. The MAX77720EVKIT# itself is fully assembled and tested; no soldering or component placement is needed before use.

How is output voltage configured on the MAX77720EVKIT#?

Boost (BST) output voltage is set using external resistive feedback (RTOP/RBOT) per the MAX77720's internal 1.25V reference at FBBST; IBB output voltage is selected digitally via I²C register writes in the GUI under Config DCDC1-2, choosing between –10.01V to –17V (high range) or –17.01V to –24V (low range). Jumper settings (J10–J13) route feedback and load paths accordingly.

Can the MAX77720EVKIT# measure efficiency accurately?

Yes - the MAX77720EVKIT# provides dedicated Kelvin sense points: INBBS/GNDBBS for input voltage, OUTBSTS/GNDBSTS for BST output, and OUTIBBS/GNDIBBS for IBB output. These enable high-accuracy efficiency, line regulation, and load regulation measurements when used with external meters. Warning: Sense pins carry no current - only connect to meter inputs, never to power supplies or electronic loads.

Is the MAX77720EVKIT# compatible with modern Windows operating systems?

Yes - the MAX77720EVKIT# GUI software requires Windows 7 or newer. Driver installation is automatic upon first connection of the MAXUSB_INTERFACE# board via Micro-USB; no manual INF file handling is needed. The GUI supports real-time register reads/writes, interrupt status monitoring, POK/fault flag tracking, and programmable startup/power-down delays (0.2ms to 3.2ms).