Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9776EVKIT+

Overview

MAX9776EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX9776 mono Class D audio subsystem IC, integrating stereo speaker amplifiers (1.5W × 2 into 4Ω), a mono DirectDrive® receiver amplifier (50mW into 32Ω), and stereo DirectDrive headphone amplifiers (50mW × 2 into 32Ω), all controllable via I²C. It targets portable audio systems requiring low-EMI, capacitor-free headphone outputs, and compact power-efficient audio delivery.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9776EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX9776EVKIT+ pinout, MAX9776EVKIT+ application, or MAX9776EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of MAX9776 audio performance-including spread-spectrum EMI reduction, click-and-pop suppression, PSRR (68dB at 217Hz), THD+N (0.024% at 1kHz), and I²C-configurable mixer/gain/volume-under real-world supply (2.7V–5.5V) and load conditions.

Technical Context

The MAX9776EVKIT+ implements the full signal chain of the MAX9776 IC: dual BTL Class D speaker drivers with active emissions limiting and spread-spectrum modulation (1100 ± 30 kHz), a ground-referenced mono receiver amplifier, and stereo DirectDrive headphone outputs eliminating DC-blocking capacitors. All functional blocks share a single-supply architecture (2.7V–5.5V) and are coordinated through a unified I²C interface supporting input mixing, volume control, and output mode selection.

It validates key architectural features including fully differential inputs, comprehensive click-and-pop suppression (−66 dB peak A-weighted), channel-to-channel gain tracking (±1%), and thermal/current protection. The kit supports both fixed-frequency and spread-spectrum modulation modes, enabling direct comparison of EMI profiles and efficiency trade-offs (up to 79% at 470mW into 8Ω).

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX9776EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable multimedia player development, handheld gaming console audio validation, cell phone reference design, and embedded audio subsystem prototyping requiring stable component supply and fast-turn evaluation support.

Supply support for MAX9776EVKIT+ 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 portable, industrial, and communications applications.

The MAX9776 belongs to Maxim's ultra-low-EMI Class D audio subsystem product line, designed specifically for space-constrained, battery-powered consumer devices needing clean, efficient, and configurable audio output without external filtering or large DC-blocking capacitors.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX9776EVKIT+?

The MAX9776EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit for the MAX9776 audio subsystem IC. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform to evaluate the device's stereo Class D speaker amplifiers (1.5W × 2), mono DirectDrive receiver amplifier (50mW), and stereo DirectDrive headphone amplifiers (50mW × 2), all controlled via I²C. Engineers use the MAX9776EVKIT+ to verify audio performance, EMI behavior, power efficiency, and system integration before final PCB design.

Does the MAX9776EVKIT+ support both MAX9775 and MAX9776 ICs?

No - the MAX9776EVKIT+ is specifically configured for the MAX9776 IC. While the MAX9775 and MAX9776 share identical functional blocks, the MAX9776 lacks the 3D stereo enhancement feature and uses a different pinout (32-pin TQFN or 36-bump WLP). The MAX9776EVKIT+ board layout, jumpers, and firmware are optimized for the MAX9776's mono configuration and I²C register map, not the MAX9775's stereo-specific 3D controls.

What power supply requirements does the MAX9776EVKIT+ have?

The MAX9776EVKIT+ operates from a single 2.7V to 5.5V DC input, matching the MAX9776 IC's supply range. It accepts either USB 5V or an external bench supply. On-board regulators derive PVDD (Class D power), CPVDD (charge-pump supply), and VDD (logic/I²C supply) with appropriate decoupling. The kit supports testing under realistic battery-like conditions, including efficiency measurements at 3.3V and 5V with loads from 4Ω to 32Ω.

How does the MAX9776EVKIT+ demonstrate EMI reduction capabilities?

The MAX9776EVKIT+ enables direct measurement of the MAX9776's ultra-low-EMI architecture: spread-spectrum modulation (1100 ± 30 kHz) and active emissions limiting. Users can compare radiated emissions in fixed-frequency vs. spread-spectrum mode using near-field probes or spectrum analyzers - confirming elimination of traditional Class D output filters. The kit includes test points for OUTL+/OUTL−, HPL/HPR, and OUTRx to isolate and characterize each amplifier's EMI signature.

Can the MAX9776EVKIT+ be used for production audio subsystems?

No - the MAX9776EVKIT+ is strictly an evaluation and development tool, not a production-ready module. It includes test headers, jumpers, and unpopulated footprint options for flexibility during characterization. For volume deployment, designers must implement the MAX9776 IC on their own PCB using the official layout guidelines, thermal pads, and charge-pump capacitor recommendations from the MAX9776 datasheet. The MAX9776EVKIT+ itself is not qualified for end-product certification or long-term operation.