Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX98357DEV#WLP

Overview

MAX98357DEV#WLP from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled and tested evaluation board for the MAX98357A/MAX98357B I²S digital-input Class D audio amplifier in WLP package. It operates from 2.5V–5.5V, delivers 3.2W into 4Ω, supports I²S/left-justified/TDM input formats, offers five selectable gains (3dB to 15dB), and enables filterless speaker connection via OUTP/OUTN test points.

For engineers reviewing the MAX98357DEV#WLP datasheet, MAX98357DEV#WLP pinout, MAX98357DEV#WLP application, or MAX98357DEV#WLP equivalent, this board provides rapid validation of Class D amplifier performance, gain configuration, channel selection (left/right/mono), TDM channel routing, and USB-powered evaluation using the MAXAUDINT001# interface board.

Technical Context

The MAX98357DEV#WLP implements a complete hardware evaluation platform for the MAX98357A/B ICs, featuring dual power routing options (external DC supply or MAXAUDINT001# USB-derived 3.3V), configurable SD_MODE jumper for audio channel selection, and GAIN_SLOT jumper for gain setting or TDM slot selection. It supports both standalone test equipment drive and PC-based USB audio evaluation.

Hardware includes unpopulated LRC filter positions (L1/L2/C3–C7/R5/R6) for filtered output testing, optional ferrite bead EMI suppression (FB1/FB2 + C8/C9), and proven PCB layout optimized for low-noise Class D operation. The board accepts 16-bit or 32-bit TDM data across eight channels with fixed 12dB gain in TDM mode.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX98357DEV#WLP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio subsystem validation, embedded speaker driver qualification, and USB-to-Class D amplifier interface development requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping capability.

Supply support for MAX98357DEV#WLP 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) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, computing, and consumer applications.

The MAX98357DEV#WLP belongs to Maxim's audio evaluation platform product line, engineered to accelerate design-in of Class D amplifiers by providing validated signal integrity, thermal layout, and flexible digital audio interface configuration.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX98357DEV#WLP?

The MAX98357DEV#WLP is a development board designed exclusively to evaluate the MAX98357A and MAX98357B Class D audio amplifiers. It provides full hardware implementation-including power routing, gain selection, channel control, and filterless/filtered output paths-to validate amplifier behavior under real-world digital audio inputs and speaker loads without custom PCB design.

Can the MAX98357DEV#WLP be powered solely from a USB connection?

Yes, the MAX98357DEV#WLP can be powered from a single USB connection when used with the MAXAUDINT001# audio interface board, which supplies regulated 3.3V to the DEV board via J1 header. However, this configuration is limited to low-power evaluation only; high-power testing (e.g., 3.2W into 4Ω) requires an external 2.5V–5.5V supply connected to VIN.

How do I configure the MAX98357DEV#WLP for TDM mode evaluation?

To enable TDM mode on the MAX98357DEV#WLP, set JU2 to pins 1–3 (left channel default) and JU5 to specific shunt combinations per Table 3 in the reference document - e.g., JU2 pins 1–3 + JU5 pins 1–5 selects TDM channel 0. In TDM mode, gain is fixed at 12dB and GAIN_SLOT repurposed for slot selection; no additional hardware changes are needed beyond jumper configuration.

Does the MAX98357DEV#WLP support both MAX98357A and MAX98357B devices?

Yes, the MAX98357DEV#WLP ships with the MAX98357AEWL+ installed but is fully compatible with the MAX98357BEWL+. To evaluate the MAX98357B, desolder U1 and replace it with the MAX98357BEWL+; all other jumpers, filters, and interfaces remain identical and functional without modification.

What components are required to enable the optional low-pass filter on the MAX98357DEV#WLP?

To enable the optional low-pass filter on the MAX98357DEV#WLP, install L1 and L2 (22µH inductors), C3–C7 (0.22µF ceramic capacitors), and R5 and R6 (22Ω resistors) at their designated footprints. Remove the factory-installed shorts across L1 and L2 first. This configuration converts PWM output to analog-compatible signals for audio analyzer measurement.