Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX8784EVKIT+

Overview

MAX8784EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX8784 TFT-LCD panel power management IC, providing complete reference design and test platform for generating +14V source-driver, +28V gate-on, and -9V gate-off supplies from a 4.5V–5.5V input. It integrates a 1.2MHz step-up regulator with internal 110mΩ MOSFET, dual regulated charge pumps, three rail-to-rail op-amps (45V/µs slew rate, 20MHz bandwidth), and logic-controlled high-voltage switch block. Designed for LCD TV and monitor panel validation and production stress testing.

For engineers reviewing the MAX8784EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX8784EVKIT+ pinout, MAX8784EVKIT+ application, or MAX8784EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid characterization of the MAX8784's Dual Mode™ HVS stress-test functionality, sequencing behavior, load transient response under pulsed gamma loads, and multi-rail power-up timing - critical for display power architecture validation and yield optimization in mass production.

Technical Context

The MAX8784EVKIT+ implements the full MAX8784 functional circuit per Figure 1 of the datasheet, including 3µH boost inductor, Schottky diode D1 (CMS02), flying capacitors C1/C2 (0.22µF), and precision feedback dividers for AVDD (+14V), VGON (+28V), and VGOFF (−9V). It supports configurable startup delays via ADEL/GDEL timing capacitors and validates the integrated sequencing logic that coordinates step-up regulator, positive/negative charge pumps, and HV switch activation.

All three operational amplifiers are wired in unity-gain buffer configuration to drive VCOM and gamma strings, with layout-optimized low-inductance paths to POS1/NEG1/OUT1 etc., and includes thermal monitoring points and test points for LX, COMP, FB, FBP, and FBN nodes. The board operates across −40°C to +85°C ambient using the MAX8784ETL+ 40-pin TQFN package.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX8784EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD TV panel qualification, monitor power architecture validation, and production line stress-test system integration requiring stable component supply, traceable calibration, and documented reference design fidelity.

Supply support for MAX8784EVKIT+ 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, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX8784 product line delivers integrated multi-rail power solutions for TFT-LCD panels, combining step-up regulation, charge-pump generation, HV switching, and op-amp driving in a single IC to replace discrete power subsystems in TVs and monitors.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX8784EVKIT+?

The MAX8784EVKIT+ is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAX8784 power management IC. It provides a turnkey platform to validate the IC's ability to generate +14V (AVDD), +28V (VGON), and −9V (VGOFF) rails for TFT-LCD panels, verify Dual Mode™ HVS stress-test operation, characterize sequencing timing, and evaluate op-amp performance under real panel loading conditions.

Does the MAX8784EVKIT+ support configurable output voltages?

Yes - the MAX8784EVKIT+ includes solder-jumper-selectable feedback resistors for AVDD, VGON, and VGOFF, enabling adjustment of each output within the MAX8784's specified ranges: AVDD (up to +19V), VGON (up to +36V), and VGOFF (down to −15V). Resistor networks match datasheet-recommended divider ratios for nominal +14V/+28V/−9V operation.

Can the MAX8784EVKIT+ be used to test HVS (Dual Mode™) functionality?

Yes - the MAX8784EVKIT+ includes dedicated HVS header pins and on-board pull-up/pull-down options to enable and verify HVS mode. In HVS mode, the MAX8784 increases AVDD to +15V and VGON to +30V for panel stress testing; the kit provides test points to measure these boosted outputs and confirm timing alignment with ADEL/GDEL delay capacitors.

What op-amp configurations are implemented on the MAX8784EVKIT+?

The MAX8784EVKIT+ configures all three op-amps (OUT1/OUT2/OUT3) as unity-gain buffers with direct POSx-to-OUTx connections and low-impedance routing to external VCOM/gamma test points. Each op-amp is powered from SUP (tied to AVDD), supports rail-to-rail I/O, and is validated for 45V/µs slew rate and 20MHz bandwidth per the MAX8784 datasheet specifications.

Is thermal protection and fault reporting accessible on the MAX8784EVKIT+?

Yes - the MAX8784EVKIT+ exposes the FAULT signal (via test point) and includes thermal pad soldering to the PCB ground plane for thermal characterization. Undervoltage lockout (FB < 1.00V for ~55ms) and overtemperature shutdown are fully functional; fault latch status can be observed on the SHDN pin behavior and confirmed by loss of AVDD/VGON/VGOFF outputs while REF remains active.