Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXM17546EVKITB#

Overview

MAXM17546EVKITB# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAXM17546 4.5V–42V, 5A synchronous step-down power module with integrated inductor and dual MOSFETs. It enables rapid validation of output voltage regulation (0.9V–12V), PWM/PFM/DCM mode operation, soft-start timing, and RESET monitoring in industrial point-of-load applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAXM17546EVKITB# datasheet, MAXM17546EVKITB# pinout, MAXM17546EVKITB# application, or MAXM17546EVKITB# equivalent, this kit provides pre-layout PCB, calibrated test points, jumper-configurable EN/UVLO threshold, RT resistor options for 100kHz–2.2MHz frequency selection, and direct access to FB, SS, MODE/SYNC, and RESET signals for real-time characterization.

Technical Context

The MAXM17546EVKITB# implements a complete reference design for the MAXM17546 SiP power module, featuring a 9mm × 15mm × 4.32mm 29-pin system-in-package with integrated controller, dual n-channel MOSFETs, shielded inductor, and compensation network. It supports peak-current-mode control with selectable operating modes via the MODE/SYNC pin.

It validates thermal performance across –40°C to +125°C ambient, demonstrates hiccup-mode overload protection, RESET assertion at 92.5% VOUT, and seamless EXTVCC-to-VCC LDO switchover at 4.7V. The board includes optimized input/output capacitor placement per Maxim's land pattern 90-100055 and four-layer thermal management layout.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAXM17546EVKITB# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power delivery, base station point-of-load regulation, HVAC control subsystems, and industrial distributed supply validation requiring stable component supply and fast design iteration.

Supply support for MAXM17546EVKITB# 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, automotive, communications, and computing applications.

The MAXM17546EVKITB# belongs to the Himalaya power module evaluation kit family, engineered to accelerate adoption of highly integrated, thermally efficient DC-DC solutions in space-constrained and reliability-critical systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAXM17546EVKITB#?

The MAXM17546EVKITB# is an evaluation kit designed exclusively to validate the electrical, thermal, and dynamic performance of the MAXM17546 synchronous step-down power module. It is not a production power supply but a development tool with test points, jumpers, and layout-optimized PCB for measuring efficiency, transient response, mode switching, and protection features under real-world conditions.

Does the MAXM17546EVKITB# include the MAXM17546 IC soldered on board?

Yes, the MAXM17546EVKITB# ships with the MAXM17546 power module pre-mounted and fully assembled on a four-layer evaluation board. The module is a 29-pin SiP in a 9mm × 15mm × 4.32mm package, and all critical passive components-including input/output capacitors, RT resistor options, and FB divider networks-are included per Maxim's recommended design.

Can the MAXM17546EVKITB# be used to evaluate different output voltages?

Yes, the MAXM17546EVKITB# supports output voltages from 0.9V to 12V via configurable FB resistor dividers. It includes solder pads and test points for multiple standard outputs (e.g., 1.2V, 1.8V, 3.3V, 5V), and users can populate custom resistors to set any target within the range. The FB regulation accuracy is guaranteed at ±1.5% over –40°C to +125°C.

How is switching frequency configured on the MAXM17546EVKITB#?

Switching frequency on the MAXM17546EVKITB# is set using the RT pin: a resistor from RT to SGND selects frequency between 100kHz and 2.2MHz. The board includes footprint options for 196kΩ (100kHz), open circuit (450kHz default), and 7.5kΩ (2.2MHz). Frequency synchronization to an external clock is also supported via the MODE/SYNC pin.

What protection features of the MAXM17546 are demonstrated by the MAXM17546EVKITB#?

The MAXM17546EVKITB# demonstrates thermal shutdown (165°C trip, 10°C hysteresis), hiccup-mode overload protection, open-drain RESET output (asserted when FB falls below 92.5% of setpoint), and DL-to-LX short detection. Load transient tests up to 5A steps and output short-circuit validation confirm robust fault recovery behavior per the MAXM17546 datasheet.