Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXM17516EVKIT#

Overview

The MAXM17516EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAXM17516 Himalaya series 6A step-down power module, designed to accelerate development of compact, high-efficiency point-of-load supplies. It supports input voltages from 2.4V to 5.5V, delivers programmable output voltages from 0.75V to 1.8V at up to 6A, and features integrated controller, dual n-channel MOSFETs, shielded inductor, and compensation components in a 10mm × 6.5mm × 2.8mm SiP package.

For engineers reviewing the MAXM17516EVKIT# datasheet, MAXM17516EVKIT# pinout, MAXM17516EVKIT# application, or MAXM17516EVKIT# equivalent, this kit enables rapid validation of thermal performance, load-transient response, power-good sequencing, and efficiency across FPGA, server, and industrial control power rails - with minimal external components and no custom layout required.

Technical Context

The MAXM17516EVKIT# implements a fixed-frequency (1MHz), current-mode controlled buck regulator using the MAXM17516 SiP. It integrates all critical power train elements - including controller, dual n-MOSFETs, and fully shielded 1µH inductor - enabling stable regulation with only four external components: input capacitor, output capacitor, feedback divider, and optional VCC bypass.

It supports voltage-controlled soft-start (1.79ms ramp), open-drain POK monitoring with ±12% window, autoswitching pulse-skipping mode for light-load efficiency, and comprehensive protection including overvoltage, undervoltage, thermal shutdown (+160°C), and peak current limiting - all operating across –40°C to +125°C ambient.

Key Specifications

Availability

The MAXM17516EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power validation, server point-of-load prototyping, and industrial control equipment development requiring stable component supply, pre-validated thermal performance, and production-ready reference schematics.

Supply support for MAXM17516EVKIT# 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 highly integrated analog and mixed-signal ICs for power, sensing, communication, and security applications - with emphasis on miniaturization, reliability, and time-to-market reduction.

The MAXM17516EVKIT# belongs to the Himalaya power module family, engineered specifically for space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as base station RF cards, medical imaging subsystems, and high-density computing where board area and thermal margin are critical constraints.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAXM17516EVKIT#?

The MAXM17516EVKIT# is a fully assembled and tested evaluation kit for the MAXM17516 power module. It provides immediate hardware validation of electrical performance, thermal behavior, and protection features - including startup waveforms, load transients, and POK timing - without requiring custom PCB design or component selection. The MAXM17516EVKIT# includes all necessary passives, test points, and jumper-configurable feedback resistors to evaluate the MAXM17516 across its full operating range.

Does the MAXM17516EVKIT# support adjustable output voltage?

Yes, the MAXM17516EVKIT# supports programmable output voltage from 0.75V to 1.8V via an external resistor divider connected to the FB pin. The kit includes solder jumpers and footprint options for standard resistor values (e.g., 22.1kΩ/47.5kΩ) to set common outputs like 1.1V or 1.2V. The MAXM17516EVKIT# documentation specifies exact divider equations and tolerance impacts, ensuring accurate regulation within ±1% typical FB accuracy before load effects.

Can the MAXM17516EVKIT# be used for thermal characterization?

Yes, the MAXM17516EVKIT# is optimized for thermal measurement: it features exposed thermal pads (EP1–EP3) connected to dedicated copper islands per Maxim's layout guidelines, includes temperature test points near the SiP, and provides derating curves for output current vs. ambient temperature (with and without airflow). The MAXM17516EVKIT# allows direct junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θ_JA = 25°C/W) validation under real operating conditions, supporting thermal model correlation and heatsink sizing.

What protection features are demonstrated on the MAXM17516EVKIT#?

The MAXM17516EVKIT# demonstrates all built-in protections of the MAXM17516: output overvoltage/undervoltage fault detection (via POK pin behavior), thermal shutdown at +160°C (with automatic latch-off and EN-clearable reset), peak current limiting during short-circuit events, and soft-start fault blanking. These are observable using oscilloscope measurements on POK, EN, and VOUT - and confirmed in the MAXM17516EVKIT# user guide with timing diagrams and fault-recovery procedures.

Is the MAXM17516EVKIT# compatible with standard lab equipment?

Yes, the MAXM17516EVKIT# features screw-terminal inputs for VIN and GND, SMA-compatible test points for VOUT, POK, EN, and FB, and clearly labeled ground planes for probe referencing. It operates from standard bench supplies (2.4V–5.5V) and draws <1μA in shutdown - making it directly compatible with power analyzers, oscilloscopes, and electronic loads. The MAXM17516EVKIT# requires no additional adapters or interface boards for functional validation.