Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8627EVKIT

Overview

MAX8627EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX8627 synchronous boost converter IC, designed to demonstrate low-voltage battery operation (down to 1.2V startup), 20µA quiescent current, and 1MHz fixed-frequency PWM switching with True Shutdown™. It supports adjustable 3V–5V output at up to 1A from single-cell Li+/Li-polymer or 2-cell NiMH/NiCd batteries, and is validated for handheld DSC, PDA, and smartphone power applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8627EVKIT datasheet, MAX8627EVKIT pinout, MAX8627EVKIT application, or MAX8627EVKIT equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of high-efficiency boost conversion under ultra-low-I_Q conditions, inrush-limited startup, voltage positioning load regulation, and True Shutdown isolation - critical for portable device battery life and system-level power sequencing.

Technical Context

The MAX8627EVKIT implements the MAX8627 IC in a fully assembled, tested circuit with 1µH inductor, dual 22µF ceramic input/output capacitors, feedback resistors (R1/R2), current-limit divider (R3/R4), and layout-optimized TDFN-14 footprint. It replicates the typical operating circuit from the MAX8627 datasheet (Figure 1), supporting adjustable output voltage (via FB resistor divider) and adjustable current limit (via ILIM resistor network).

It demonstrates the MAX8627's current-mode PWM control architecture, soft-start (5.25ms typical), internal damping switch for LX ringing suppression in discontinuous conduction mode, and voltage positioning load regulation (±3% typ). The board includes test points for BATT, ON, FB, POUT, LX, and GND to facilitate oscilloscope-based transient, efficiency, and startup waveform analysis.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX8627EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical monitors, industrial handheld scanners, and IoT sensor node development requiring stable component supply, fast prototyping turnaround, and production-ready reference design validation.

Supply support for MAX8627EVKIT 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The MAX8627EVKIT belongs to Maxim's power management evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of ultra-low-I_Q DC-DC converters for space-constrained, battery-powered portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX8627EVKIT?

The MAX8627EVKIT is a fully assembled evaluation kit for the MAX8627 synchronous boost converter IC. It provides a ready-to-use platform to validate key performance metrics - including 20µA quiescent current, 1MHz switching, True Shutdown™ isolation, soft-start inrush limiting, and voltage positioning - using the exact MAX8627ETD+ IC in its native 3mm × 3mm TDFN package. Engineers use it to verify system-level behavior before custom PCB design.

Does the MAX8627EVKIT support adjustable output voltage and current limit?

Yes, the MAX8627EVKIT supports both. Output voltage is adjusted via the external FB resistor divider (R1/R2), enabling precise 3.0V–5.2V settings per the MAX8627's 1.015V feedback reference. Current limit is set through the ILIM pin using a resistor divider (R3/R4), allowing reduction from the default 3.5A peak inductor limit down to lower values - all while maintaining full functionality of the MAX8627EVKIT's onboard components and layout.

Can the MAX8627EVKIT be used to measure efficiency and load transient response?

Yes. The MAX8627EVKIT includes dedicated test points (BATT, POUT, LX, FB, ON, GND) and a layout optimized for low-noise measurement. Its dual 22µF ceramic input/output capacitors and 1µH inductor match the typical operating circuit in the MAX8627 datasheet, enabling accurate efficiency vs. load current profiling and load transient testing (e.g., 0–1A step) with standard bench equipment - as confirmed by Figures TOC01–TOC04 and TOC14 in the MAX8627 datasheet.

What battery types are validated for use with the MAX8627EVKIT?

The MAX8627EVKIT is validated for single-cell Li+/Li-polymer (2.5V–4.2V) and 2-cell NiMH/NiCd (2.4V–3.0V nominal) batteries, per the MAX8627's specified input range (1.5V–5.5V) and minimum startup voltage (1.2V). It demonstrates stable operation down to 1.5V input with 5V output and full 1A load, making it suitable for deeply discharged battery scenarios common in portable DSCs and PDAs.

Is thermal performance characterized on the MAX8627EVKIT?

Yes. The MAX8627EVKIT implements the MAX8627's exposed-pad (EP) TDFN-14 package with direct EP-to-GND connection, matching the thermal design guidelines in the MAX8627 datasheet. Its layout supports junction temperature monitoring up to +150°C and includes thermal shutdown verification (trip at +160°C), enabling engineers to assess real-world thermal derating and power dissipation margins - especially critical when delivering 1A at 5V from low-input-voltage sources.