Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX98303EVKIT+

Overview

MAX98303EVKIT+ from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX98303 stereo 3.1W Class D audio amplifier IC, designed to accelerate development of portable audio systems with filterless speaker drive. It supports gain configuration (6–18dB), spread-spectrum modulation (300kHz ±15kHz), and operates from 2.6V to 5.5V supply, delivering up to 3.1W per channel into 4Ω + 33µH loads at 5V with THD+N ≤ 0.047%.

For engineers reviewing the MAX98303EVKIT+ datasheet, MAX98303EVKIT+ pinout, MAX98303EVKIT+ application, or MAX98303EVKIT+ equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of low-EMI, battery-efficient audio amplification in space-constrained designs such as tablets, VoIP phones, and portable media players - with full access to SHDN control, GAIN selection, and differential input/output routing.

Technical Context

The MAX98303EVKIT+ implements the MAX98303 IC in a 16-bump WLP (1.68mm × 1.68mm × 0.64mm) package with 0.4mm pitch, supporting dual-channel differential output drive and five discrete gain settings via the GAIN pin. Its onboard circuitry replicates the typical application layout including PVDD bypassing (0.1µF + 10µF), input coupling capacitors, and proper grounding for EMI suppression.

It validates the IC's key operational features: ultra-low quiescent current (2.0mA at 3.7V), active emissions limiting, click-and-pop suppression during startup/shutdown, thermal shutdown at 145°C, and 93% peak efficiency at 5V into 8Ω + 68µH load - all without external LC filtering.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX98303EVKIT+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio subsystem prototyping, portable device qualification, and EMI compliance testing requiring stable component supply and documented reference design implementation.

Supply support for MAX98303EVKIT+ 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, automotive, and consumer applications.

The MAX98303 product line delivers ultra-low-power, filterless Class D audio amplifiers targeting space- and battery-constrained portable electronics - emphasizing EMI reduction, click-and-pop suppression, and wide supply voltage tolerance.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAX98303EVKIT+?

The MAX98303EVKIT+ is an evaluation kit designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the performance of the MAX98303 stereo 3.1W Class D amplifier IC. It provides a fully assembled, tested PCB with all necessary support components - including PVDD decoupling, input coupling networks, and GAIN configuration options - enabling engineers to verify audio quality, efficiency, EMI behavior, and shutdown functionality before integrating the MAX98303 into their own designs.

Does the MAX98303EVKIT+ include the MAX98303 IC pre-mounted?

Yes, the MAX98303EVKIT+ includes the MAX98303 IC pre-mounted in its native 16-bump WLP package (1.68mm × 1.68mm × 0.64mm). The board implements the exact layout and decoupling recommended in the MAX98303 datasheet, including 0.1µF and 10µF PVDD bypass capacitors, differential input routing, and dedicated test points for INL+/INL-/OUTL+/OUTL- and INR+/INR-/OUTR+/OUTR- signals.

Can the MAX98303EVKIT+ be used to evaluate different gain configurations of the MAX98303?

Yes, the MAX98303EVKIT+ supports all five gain settings (6dB, 9dB, 12dB, 15dB, and 18dB) of the MAX98303 via configurable connections to the GAIN pin - including direct tie to PVDD or PGND, resistor-divider options (100kΩ ±5%), and open-circuit mode. Jumper positions and silkscreen labels on the board allow quick reconfiguration without soldering.

What power supply requirements does the MAX98303EVKIT+ have?

The MAX98303EVKIT+ accepts a single DC supply between 2.6V and 5.5V, matching the MAX98303's PVDD specification. It includes onboard reverse-polarity protection and filtering, and is optimized for stable operation at 3.7V (typical Li-ion) and 5.0V (USB-powered) inputs - enabling accurate measurement of quiescent current (2.0mA at 3.7V), efficiency, and output power across the full operating range.

How does the MAX98303EVKIT+ demonstrate EMI performance without output filters?

The MAX98303EVKIT+ validates the MAX98303's built-in EMI mitigation by implementing its spread-spectrum modulation (300kHz center ±15kHz), active edge-rate control, and overshoot suppression - eliminating need for external LC filters. Test reports confirm compliance with EN55022B radiated emissions limits up to 1GHz using standard 30cm speaker cables, directly demonstrating the filterless architecture's real-world viability.