Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXM17574EVKIT#

Overview

MAXM17574EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAXM17574 3A, 4.5V–60V input synchronous step-down power module with integrated inductor and compensation. It enables rapid validation of the SiP's performance in industrial point-of-load, FPGA/DSP supply, and HVAC control applications under real thermal and load-transient conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAXM17574EVKIT# datasheet, MAXM17574EVKIT# pinout, MAXM17574EVKIT# application, or MAXM17574EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides full access to all control pins (EN/UVLO, MODE/SYNC, SS, RT, FB), on-board test points for VIN, VOUT, LX, and RESET, and pre-layout optimized thermal copper for accurate efficiency and thermal characterization at up to 3A continuous load.

Technical Context

The MAXM17574EVKIT# implements the MAXM17574 power module in a fully assembled, tested PCB layout matching Maxim's reference design (Land Pattern 90-100057). It supports both PWM and DCM operation modes via MODE/SYNC pin configuration and allows external frequency synchronization from 100kHz to 2.2MHz using the RT resistor and SYNC interface.

It integrates all critical passive components-including input/output capacitors (4.7µF VIN, 47µF VOUT), soft-start capacitor, feedback divider, and BST capacitor-and exposes all functional pins for probing, enabling precise measurement of line/load regulation (±0.9% FB accuracy), startup timing, transient response (<100µs recovery), and conducted/radiated emissions per CISPR22 Class B.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAXM17574EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, distributed supply regulation, FPGA/DSP point-of-load development, and HVAC/building control system prototyping requiring stable component supply and repeatable evaluation data.

Supply support for MAXM17574EVKIT# 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 MAXM17574EVKIT# belongs to the Himalaya power module evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate adoption of highly integrated, thermally robust, plug-and-play DC-DC solutions for space-constrained and high-reliability systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAXM17574EVKIT#?

The MAXM17574EVKIT# is a fully assembled evaluation kit designed to validate the electrical, thermal, and dynamic performance of the MAXM17574 3A synchronous step-down power module. It provides immediate access to all control and monitoring pins, pre-optimized layout, and documented test points-enabling engineers to verify startup behavior, load transients, efficiency curves, and EMI compliance without custom PCB design.

Does the MAXM17574EVKIT# support both PWM and DCM operation modes?

Yes, the MAXM17574EVKIT# fully supports both PWM and DCM operation modes of the MAXM17574. The MODE/SYNC pin is accessible via jumper or solder bridge, allowing users to configure constant-frequency PWM (MODE tied to SGND) or light-load-optimized DCM (MODE tied to VCC). All operating characteristics-including efficiency vs. load, transient response, and switching waveforms-are measurable in either mode using the kit's test points.

Can the MAXM17574EVKIT# be used to evaluate external frequency synchronization?

Yes, the MAXM17574EVKIT# includes dedicated routing and a test point for the MODE/SYNC pin, supporting external clock injection from 1.1× to 1.4× the programmed fSW. A 22pF capacitor pad from CF to SGND is provided per datasheet guidance for robust synchronization. Verified sync operation has been demonstrated at 500kHz base frequency with 600kHz external clock input on the MAXM17574EVKIT#.

What output voltage range can be evaluated using the MAXM17574EVKIT#?

The MAXM17574EVKIT# supports output voltages from 0.9V to 15V, set via the onboard feedback resistor divider (default 3.3V). The FB pin is accessible for reconfiguration, and the kit includes footprint options for alternate resistors. All specified line/load regulation (±0.9% FB accuracy), ripple (<20mV pk-pk), and transient performance metrics are validated across this full range per the MAXM17574 datasheet test conditions.

Is thermal performance data available for the MAXM17574EVKIT#?

Yes, the MAXM17574EVKIT# uses Maxim's standardized four-layer evaluation board with thermal vias and copper pours matching Land Pattern 90-100057. Published thermal data-including ambient-to-junction rise (θJA = 22.6°C/W), output current vs. ambient temperature curves (up to +125°C), and thermal shutdown activation at +165°C-is measured directly on the MAXM17574EVKIT# and included in the official datasheet (Rev 2, April 2019).