The MAX20446 evaluation kit (EV kit) demonstrates the MAX20446 integrated 6-channel high-brightness (HB) LED backlight driver with boost/SEPIC controller and I²C interface for automotive displays.

The EV kit operates from a DC supply voltage between 4.5V and 36V and the switching frequency can be set either at 2.2MHz or at 400kHz. The EV kit operates in I²C mode only. Spread-spectrum mode (SSM) is enabled by default for EMI improvement, but can be disabled by acting on a register bit. The EV kit demonstrates phase-shifted pulse-width modulation (PWM) dimming. Dimming can be performed externally using a PWM signal applied to the DIM PCB pad, or internally by programming the desired dimming frequency and individual duty cycle through I²C. The hybrid dimming feature can be enabled through a register bit to reduce EMI. The EV kit also demonstrates short-LED, open-LED, boost output undervoltage, as well as overvoltage- and overtemperature-fault protection.

For operation at switching frequencies other than 2.2MHz or 400kHz, the external components should be chosen according to the calculations in the MAX20446 IC data sheet.

The EV kit provides an I²C interface that can operate in conjunction with the Maxim command module (MINIQUSB+*) or a third-party I²C master. The EV kit also includes, Windows^®-compatible software that provides a simple graphical user interface (GUI) for exercising the features of the IC.

*Note: To be ordered separately.

Applications

• Central Information Displays
• Infotainment Displays
• Instrument Clusters