The MAX25512B evaluation kit (EV kit) demonstrates the MAX25512B integrated 4-channel, high-brightness LED (HB LED) driver with I²C interface for automotive displays.

The EV kit operates from a DC supply voltage between 3V and 36V, and the switching frequency can be either set at 2.2MHz or at 400kHz. The EV kit can only be configured to operate in I²C mode. Spread-Spectrum mode (SSM) is enabled by default for EMI improvement, but it can be disabled by acting on a register bit. The EV kit demonstrates phase-shifted pulse-width modulation (PWM) dimming. Dimming can be performed either 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 features a LED current foldback option either as a function of the temperature, by means of a NTC sensor (not provided), or through analog dimming. I²C-programmable automatic fading functionality is also available.

Finally, the EV kit demonstrates short-LED, open-LED, LED short-to-ground, boost output short-to-ground/ undervoltage and 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 IC data sheet.

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