Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAXM17901EVKIT#

Overview

MAXM17901EVKIT# from Maxim Integrated is an evaluation kit for the MAXM17901 fixed-output 3.3V, 300mA Himalaya uSLIC step-down power module. It enables rapid validation of the module's performance in industrial sensors, 4–20mA loop-powered systems, and battery-powered point-of-load applications under real-world input (4.5V–24V), thermal (–40°C to +125°C), and load (0–300mA) conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MAXM17901EVKIT# datasheet, MAXM17901EVKIT# pinout, MAXM17901EVKIT# application, or MAXM17901EVKIT# equivalent, this kit provides verified reference layout, preconfigured test points for VIN, VOUT, EN/UVLO, RESET, and MODE signals, and full support for evaluating soft-start timing (4.1ms), PFM/PWM mode switching, and hiccup-mode overcurrent protection behavior.

Technical Context

The MAXM17901EVKIT# implements the MAXM17901 power module in a production-representative 10-pin uSLIC™ package (2.6mm × 3mm × 1.5mm), with all critical passive components-including input/output ceramic capacitors (1µF CIN, 10µF COUT), feedback resistors (for fixed 3.3V output), and VCC bypass-pre-mounted per Maxim's recommended PCB layout guidelines. It supports both enable-controlled startup and VIN-triggered operation.

This kit validates peak-current-mode control architecture, internal compensation, open-drain RESET assertion at 92% FB threshold (with 2ms delay), and programmable EN/UVLO threshold (1.215V typ rising). It fully exposes the module's thermal shutdown (166°C), hiccup timeout (131ms), and ±1.5% feedback accuracy across –40°C to +125°C ambient.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAXM17901EVKIT# is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor design, HVAC control system prototyping, and USB Type-C powered load development requiring stable component supply, fast turnaround, and production-ready reference validation.

Supply support for MAXM17901EVKIT# 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, communications, and security applications, with emphasis on miniaturization, efficiency, and reliability.

The Himalaya uSLIC product line delivers fully integrated, thermally enhanced DC-DC modules targeting space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as industrial IoT nodes, encoders, and battery-powered instrumentation.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the MAXM17901EVKIT#?

The MAXM17901EVKIT# is an evaluation kit designed exclusively to validate the electrical, thermal, and functional performance of the MAXM17901 fixed 3.3V, 300mA uSLIC step-down power module. It provides a ready-to-use PCB with pre-populated components, test points, and layout compliance to Maxim's reference design - enabling immediate bench testing of startup behavior, load regulation, RESET timing, and EMI performance without custom PCB spin.

Does the MAXM17901EVKIT# support the MAXM17903 adjustable-output module?

No, the MAXM17901EVKIT# is configured specifically for the MAXM17901 fixed 3.3V output variant. Its feedback network connects FB directly to VOUT, omitting the external resistor divider required by the MAXM17903. Using the MAXM17903 on this board would result in incorrect output voltage and invalidates all published test data - a separate EV kit (MAXM17903EVKIT#) is required for that device.

How is soft-start implemented and verified on the MAXM17901EVKIT#?

Soft-start on the MAXM17901EVKIT# follows the MAXM17901's internal 4.1ms ramp (typ) from EN/UVLO activation to 90% VOUT. This is verified using oscilloscope measurements across TP_VOUT with 10mV/div AC coupling and 2µs/div timebase, confirming monotonic rise without overshoot or oscillation - critical for powering FPGAs and microcontrollers with strict inrush limits.

Can the MAXM17901EVKIT# be used to evaluate PFM vs. PWM mode switching?

Yes - the MAXM17901EVKIT# exposes the MODE pin (Pin 4) with a solder jumper (SJ1) allowing direct grounding for forced PWM mode or leaving it unconnected for default PFM operation. This enables side-by-side efficiency comparison (e.g., >85% at 10mA load in PFM vs. ~72% in PWM) and transient response analysis per Figure toc27–toc30 in the MAXM17901/MAXM17903 datasheet.

What thermal and safety protections are validated using the MAXM17901EVKIT#?

The MAXM17901EVKIT# validates thermal shutdown at +166°C (with 10°C hysteresis), hiccup-mode overcurrent protection (131ms timeout), and open-drain RESET assertion during fault conditions. These are confirmed via hot-plate stress testing, output short-circuit simulation (Figures toc49–toc52), and IR thermography showing uniform heat distribution across the uSLIC package's exposed thermal pad.