Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX98363CDEV#

Overview

MAX98363CDEV# from Analog Devices is a fully assembled and tested development board designed to evaluate the MAX98363C, a MIPI SoundWire v1.2–compliant Class-D mono audio amplifier in a 9-bump WLP (1.528mm × 1.528mm, 0.4mm pitch). It supports single-supply operation from 2.5V to 5.5V (VDD), requires external DVDDIO at 1.7V–1.9V, and delivers 3.2W into 4Ω at 5V with 92% efficiency and 108.5dB dynamic range.

For engineers reviewing the MAX98363CDEV# datasheet, MAX98363CDEV# pinout, MAX98363CDEV# application, or MAX98363CDEV# equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of SoundWire-based audio subsystems in space-constrained portable electronics - including register configuration, click-and-pop performance, filterless output behavior, and DVDDIO supply integration using the onboard MAX8887EZK18+ LDO.

Technical Context

The MAX98363CDEV# implements hardware-level SoundWire v1.2 interface compliance via dedicated SW_CLK and SW_DAT headers (J6), supporting 4-bit peripheral unique ID selection through ADDR pin configuration (J9). It integrates an external 1.8V LDO (U2, MAX8887EZK18+) for DVDDIO supply, required specifically for MAX98363C operation - unlike the A/B variants that generate DVDDIO internally.

Board-level features include jumper-controlled enable (J2), configurable speaker load connection via OUTP/OUTN binding posts, EMI mitigation provisions (FB1/FB2 ferrite beads + C9/C10 capacitors), and test point access to VDD, DVDDIO, EN, ADDR, SW_CLK, SW_DAT, and GND - all aligned with the MAX98363C's WLP9 pinout and functional requirements.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX98363CDEV# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio subsystem validation, SoundWire protocol integration, and Class-D amplifier characterization requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and documented reference design support.

Supply support for MAX98363CDEV# 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, industrial automation, communications, and audio markets.

The MAX98363 product line targets ultra-compact, low-power audio endpoints - specifically SoundWire-enabled earbuds, hearing aids, smart speakers, and mobile accessories - where minimal footprint, high PSRR, and seamless digital audio interface are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX98363CDEV#?

The MAX98363CDEV# is a development board for evaluating the MAX98363C SoundWire v1.2–compliant Class-D mono amplifier. It provides full hardware access - including SW_CLK/SW_DAT headers, DVDDIO supply path via onboard MAX8887EZK18+ LDO, jumper-configurable enable and address, and binding-post speaker outputs - enabling engineers to validate register control, audio performance, power efficiency, and system-level SoundWire integration without custom PCB design.

How does the MAX98363CDEV# differ from the MAX98363ADEV# or MAX98363BDEV#?

The MAX98363CDEV# differs by requiring external DVDDIO (1.7V–1.9V), which is supplied either via the onboard MAX8887EZK18+ LDO (enabled by shunt on J3) or an external bench supply - unlike the MAX98363ADEV#/MAX98363BDEV#, whose DVDDIO is generated internally. The MAX98363CDEV# also supports SoundWire Unique ID values 0x0–0x4 (via J9), whereas MAX98363BDEV# supports 0x5–0x9.

Which SoundWire manager devices are compatible with the MAX98363CDEV#?

The MAX98363CDEV# is compatible with any MIPI SoundWire v1.2–compliant manager IC or host controller that provides SW_CLK and SW_DAT signals meeting specification timing and voltage levels (1.8V CMOS). Examples include Intel Tiger Lake/Pine Trail platforms, Qualcomm Snapdragon SoCs with SoundWire support, and standalone SoundWire bridge ICs - all interfacing directly to J6 header pins.

Can the MAX98363CDEV# operate without the onboard LDO (U2)?

Yes - the MAX98363CDEV# can operate without the onboard MAX8887EZK18+ LDO. To use an external DVDDIO supply, remove the shunt from J3 and apply 1.7V–1.9V directly to the DVDDIO test point (TP5). The board's schematic and layout documentation confirm this alternative supply path, and R8 (0Ω resistor) may be removed to isolate the LDO from VDD during quiescent current measurement.

Does the MAX98363CDEV# include software for controlling the MAX98363C device?

No - the MAX98363CDEV# evaluation software operates in "Demo Mode" only and does not communicate with or control the MAX98363CDEV# hardware. It serves solely as a GUI reference for register maps and block diagrams. Real-time control requires an external SoundWire manager connected to J6, while audio test equipment connects to OUTP/OUTN for performance measurement.