Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8625AEVKIT+

Overview

MAX8625AEVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX8625A high-efficiency, seamless-transition step-up/down DC-DC converter IC. It supports fixed 3.3V or adjustable 1.25V–4.0V output at up to 0.8A from a 2.5V–5.5V input, features 1MHz switching, internal H-bridge topology with four MOSFETs, and True Shutdown™. The kit enables rapid validation of power architectures in portable battery-powered devices including digital still cameras, MP3 players, and HDDs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8625AEVKIT+ datasheet, MAX8625AEVKIT+ pinout, MAX8625AEVKIT+ application, or MAX8625AEVKIT+ equivalent, this kit provides hardware-level access to the MAX8625A's buck/boost transition behavior, skip vs. forced-PWM mode comparison, load transient response, soft-start timing, and thermal shutdown verification under real-world PCB layout and component selection conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX8625AEVKIT+ implements the full reference design for the MAX8625A IC, including dual 22µF ceramic input/output capacitors, a 3.3µH inductor, and proper routing for LX1/LX2 high-current paths. It supports both fixed-output (FB grounded) and adjustable-output (external resistor divider) configurations per Figure 3 and Figure 4 of the MAX8625A datasheet.

Designed for the 3mm × 3mm, 14-pin TDFN-EP package, the kit replicates the thermal pad grounding, exposed-pad soldering, and critical feedback network placement (<0.2 inch from FB/GND pins) specified in the MAX8625A Applications Information section. It enables direct measurement of key performance metrics: 92% peak efficiency, 37µA typical quiescent current in skip mode, ±1% output voltage accuracy, and <3% load transient droop.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX8625AEVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for digital camera power subsystem validation, portable audio device battery-life optimization, and HDD voltage regulation prototyping requiring stable component supply and documented reference design fidelity.

Supply support for MAX8625AEVKIT+ 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX8625A product line was designed specifically for space-constrained, battery-powered portable electronics requiring glitch-free buck/boost transitions, ultra-low quiescent current in skip mode, and minimal external component count - targeting DSCs, MP3 players, smartphones, and portable HDDs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX8625AEVKIT+?

The MAX8625AEVKIT+ is an evaluation kit that provides a fully assembled, tested PCB implementing the MAX8625A step-up/down DC-DC converter. It allows engineers to validate the IC's seamless buck/boost operation, measure efficiency across input/output combinations, verify soft-start and shutdown behavior, and assess thermal performance under real load conditions before committing to custom design.

Does the MAX8625AEVKIT+ support both fixed and adjustable output voltages?

Yes, the MAX8625AEVKIT+ supports both configurations. With FB shorted to GND via onboard jumper, it delivers a fixed 3.3V output. With FB connected to an external resistor divider (R1/R2), users can set any output between 1.25V and 4.0V - matching the MAX8625A's adjustable range and enabling testing of diverse system rail requirements.

Can the MAX8625AEVKIT+ demonstrate the difference between SKIP and FPWM modes?

Yes, the MAX8625AEVKIT+ includes dedicated test points and jumpers to configure SKIP = GND (skip mode) or SKIP = IN (forced-PWM mode). This enables direct oscilloscope comparison of switching waveforms, efficiency vs. load curves, output ripple magnitude/spectrum, and quiescent current - confirming the MAX8625A's 37µA typical I_IN in skip mode versus higher FPWM consumption.

What thermal and protection features of the MAX8625A can be validated using the MAX8625AEVKIT+?

The MAX8625AEVKIT+ enables validation of MAX8625A's thermal shutdown (triggered at +165°C with 15°C hysteresis) and overcurrent protection (2A peak limit with 100ms fault latch-off delay). Users can apply sustained overload or localized heating to observe automatic shutdown, output disconnection, and required ON pin toggle to clear the fault - replicating real-system safety behavior.

Is the MAX8625AEVKIT+ compatible with the MAX8625A's 14-pin TDFN-EP package layout and thermal requirements?

Yes, the MAX8625AEVKIT+ uses the exact 3mm × 3mm, 14-pin TDFN-EP footprint specified for the MAX8625A, including proper exposed pad (EP) soldering to a large internal ground plane. Its PCB layout follows Maxim's recommendations: short wide traces for LX1/LX2, feedback resistors placed within 0.2 inches of FB/GND, and input/output capacitors mounted adjacent to the IC - ensuring accurate thermal and electrical performance replication.