Good to see you around again Win.
I have pointed out the difference between Max and TI in excruciating detail (simply because TI has decided to directly compete with Max) with the point that this is what Max has to do to survive.
I have been convinced by TI (well, by the FAEs) to do a 100% TI power solution in my latest product because they are **guaranteeing** delivery (based on my forecast) of the parts required. TI are deadly serious about their entire business line, and think nothing of shipping me an EVM that normally costs $100 for nothing because I *might* design that part in. In fact, I had to talk to the FAEs (here in the UK) and ask them not to send EVMs unless I asked because they were arriving at the rate of 2 a week :)
Speaking of that, anyone in the UK (Graham and John I know of) who wants EVMs that are now surplus to me, but interesting to them can have them. I'll post a list Monday. Free to good homes in the UK. I am sure TI would approve; their parts will be in front of more people .
I often call them inquiring about such and such a part because it *may* be interesting, but I am not committed to even thinking further about it - I am merely exploring possibilities. They take this as a possible design win and **send me an EVM** even if I never use it. They care not if I use it; they care that **I have the EVM and I can see their part in front of me**.
But such things show the differences in the view of the companies; TI (and AD, National, On, lots of others) want me to design their parts in, and understand my concerns. I wish Max did.
Cheers
PeteS