Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX98363ADEV#

Overview

MAX98363ADEV# from Analog Devices is a fully assembled and tested development board for evaluating the MAX98363A - a MIPI SoundWire v1.2–compliant, filterless Class-D mono audio amplifier delivering 3.2W into 4Ω at 5V, with 12.8μVRMS output noise and 108.5dB dynamic range. It supports single-supply operation from 2.5V to 5.5V and features jumper-configurable SoundWire Unique ID (0x0–0x4) for multi-device systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX98363ADEV# datasheet, MAX98363ADEV# pinout, MAX98363ADEV# application, or MAX98363ADEV# equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of SoundWire audio streaming, quiescent power optimization (12.3mW with external DVDDIO), click-and-pop suppression, and EMI-compliant speaker output routing in space-constrained portable audio designs.

Technical Context

The MAX98363ADEV# interfaces directly with an external SoundWire manager via J6 header (SW_CLK/SW_DAT), requiring no onboard microcontroller or firmware. It routes the MAX98363A's WLP-9 package outputs (OUTP/OUTN) to binding posts and provides configurable EN control (J2) and ADDR selection (J9) for device enumeration.

Power architecture differs by variant: MAX98363ADEV# uses the MAX98363A's internal LDO for DVDDIO, eliminating need for external 1.8V supply; jumpers J3 and U2 are absent. The board includes EMI mitigation components (FB1/FB2 ferrite beads + C9/C10 100pF caps) and supports unfiltered 4Ω–8Ω loads with optional series inductor (33µH).

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX98363ADEV# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable audio system validation, SoundWire interface prototyping, and Class-D amplifier performance benchmarking requiring stable component supply and full evaluation readiness.

Supply support for MAX98363ADEV# 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and audio markets.

The MAX98363 product line delivers ultra-small, low-power SoundWire audio endpoints for next-generation wearables and mobile devices, targeting seamless integration with host processors supporting MIPI SoundWire v1.2.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX98363ADEV# development board?

The MAX98363ADEV# development board is designed exclusively to evaluate the MAX98363A SoundWire v1.2–compliant Class-D mono amplifier. It provides immediate hardware access to all critical signals-including SW_CLK, SW_DAT, OUTP/OUTN, and EN-enabling engineers to validate audio streaming, power efficiency, THD+N, and EMI behavior without custom PCB design. The board requires no firmware or host processor to operate.

Does the MAX98363ADEV# require an external DVDDIO supply?

No. The MAX98363ADEV# is configured for the MAX98363A variant, which integrates an internal LDO to generate DVDDIO from VDD. Unlike MAX98363CDEV#/DDEV#, it does not include jumper J3 or LDO U2. DVDDIO is internally supplied and accessible at the test point, eliminating need for external 1.8V regulation during evaluation of MAX98363ADEV#.

How is the SoundWire Unique ID set on the MAX98363ADEV#?

The MAX98363ADEV# uses jumper J9 (5-pin header) to configure the 4-bit SoundWire peripheral Unique ID from 0x0 to 0x4, as specified in Table 2 of the documentation. Each shunt position (e.g., pins 5–3 for 0x0, open for 0x1) sets a distinct address, enabling multiple MAX98363ADEV# boards to coexist on the same SoundWire bus without conflict.

Can the MAX98363ADEV# drive a speaker directly without filtering?

Yes. The MAX98363ADEV# is assembled with edge-rate control and output stage tuning that enable filterless operation into 4Ω–8Ω speakers. For short cables (<30 cm), no external LC filter is needed. When longer cables are used, Analog Devices recommends adding ferrite beads (e.g., Murata BLM18SG331TN1D) and 100pF capacitors (C9/C10) - pads and layout are provided on the board.

Is the MAX98363 evaluation software required to use the MAX98363ADEV#?

No. The MAX98363 evaluation software operates in "Demo Mode" only and does not communicate with or control the MAX98363ADEV# hardware. It serves solely as a register reference tool. Real evaluation requires an external SoundWire manager (e.g., FPGA-based or dedicated SoundWire controller) connected to J6, plus audio test equipment linked to OUTP/OUTN.