Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX98355EVKIT#

Overview

MAX98355EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAX98355A/MAX98355B PCM-input Class D audio power amplifier ICs. It enables rapid validation of 3.2W filterless audio output into 4Ω loads, 5V supply operation, 2.4mA quiescent current, and MCLK-free I²S or left-justified digital audio interface at sample rates up to 96kHz - used in portable media player reference designs.

For engineers reviewing the MAX98355EVKIT# datasheet, MAX98355EVKIT# pinout, MAX98355EVKIT# application, or MAX98355EVKIT# equivalent, this kit supports functional verification of gain-selectable (3–15dB), jitter-tolerant (12ns typ), ultra-low-EMI Class D amplification with integrated click-and-pop suppression and stereo channel routing (L/R/L+R/2) in space-constrained mobile audio systems.

Technical Context

The MAX98355EVKIT# implements the full signal chain of the MAX98355A/B IC: PCM digital audio input (I²S or left-justified), programmable gain control via GAIN pin, shutdown and channel selection logic, and filterless spread-spectrum Class D output stage driving a single-ended speaker load. It validates operation across 2.5V–5.5V supply range and -40°C to +85°C ambient.

It demonstrates key architecture features including MCLK elimination using internal PLL-based clock recovery, wideband jitter tolerance on BCLK/LRCLK, active edge-rate limiting, and sophisticated EMI reduction circuitry enabling direct connection to speakers without LC filters - critical for cellular phone and tablet PCB layouts.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX98355EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable media players, cellular phones, and notebook computers requiring stable component supply and fast-turnaround audio subsystem validation.

Supply support for MAX98355EVKIT# 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 MAX98355A/B product line was designed for space-constrained, battery-powered consumer audio systems requiring high-efficiency, low-noise, filterless Class D amplification with minimal external components and robust GSM noise immunity.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX98355EVKIT#?

The MAX98355EVKIT# is an evaluation kit that provides a fully assembled, tested platform to validate the electrical and audio performance of the MAX98355A and MAX98355B PCM-input Class D audio amplifier ICs. It enables engineers to verify gain settings, digital interface timing, output power, THD+N, EMI behavior, and click-and-pop suppression without designing custom hardware - accelerating development for portable audio applications.

Which IC variants does the MAX98355EVKIT# support?

The MAX98355EVKIT# supports both the MAX98355A (I²S digital audio interface) and MAX98355B (left-justified digital audio interface), as confirmed in the official Maxim datasheet Rev 1 (8/13). The kit's configurable jumpers and layout accommodate either variant's pin-compatible WLP package and distinct data format requirements, allowing side-by-side comparison and firmware validation.

Does the MAX98355EVKIT# require an external MCLK signal?

No, the MAX98355EVKIT# does not require an external MCLK signal. It validates the intrinsic MCLK-elimination capability of the MAX98355A/B ICs, which use internal PLL-based clock recovery from BCLK and LRCLK to reconstruct precise sampling clocks - reducing EMI, PCB routing complexity, and pin count, as specified in the MAX98355A/B datasheet Section "MCLK Elimination".

What speaker load configurations can be tested with the MAX98355EVKIT#?

The MAX98355EVKIT# supports testing with standard 4Ω and 8Ω speakers, using the recommended ZSPK = 4Ω + 33µH or 8Ω + 68µH loads per the MAX98355A/B datasheet Electrical Characteristics table. It delivers up to 3.2W into 4Ω at 5V and maintains <0.013% THD+N at 1kHz, validating real-world performance under typical portable audio load conditions.

How does the MAX98355EVKIT# demonstrate EMI reduction?

The MAX98355EVKIT# demonstrates EMI reduction through its validated filterless operation: it drives speakers directly without external LC output filters, enabled by the MAX98355A/B's spread-spectrum modulation, edge-rate limiting, and overshoot control circuitry. Figure 14 in the MAX98355A/B datasheet shows measured EMI with 12-inch speaker cable and no output filtering - confirming compliance-ready design for handheld devices.