Analog Devices Inc. ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ

Overview

ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize the ADP1873 synchronous step-down PWM controller in a fixed 1.8 V output, 300 kHz switching frequency configuration delivering up to 14 A load current. It supports dual-input operation (VIN: 2.75 V–20 V; VDD: 2.75 V–5.5 V), features power saving mode (PSM) for light-load efficiency, and enables start-up into precharged outputs.

For engineers reviewing the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ datasheet, ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ pinout, ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ application, or ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ equivalent, this board provides validated hardware for evaluating transient response, line/load regulation, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and PSM vs. forced PWM operational behavior under real-world thermal and layout conditions.

Technical Context

The ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ implements a constant-on-time, pseudo-fixed-frequency current-mode control architecture with programmable current-sense gain and valley current limit. It integrates dedicated high-side (DRVH) and low-side (DRVL) gate drivers optimized for external MOSFETs, supporting fast switching edge rates (tr/tpdh ≤ 25 ns for DRVH; tr ≤ 18 ns for DRVL) and robust bootstrap (BST) biasing.

Designed around the ADP1873 IC in 10-lead MSOP package, the board uses discrete passive components-including Murata GRM32ER71E226KE15L input capacitors, Panasonic EEFUE0G271LR output capacitors, and Wurth 7443552100 1.0 µH inductor-to achieve ±2% output accuracy over −40°C to +125°C and support full-scale load currents up to 14 A at 1.8 V.

Key Specifications

Availability

ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC-DC converter reference design verification, and high-current buck regulator qualification requiring stable component supply and documented performance benchmarks.

Supply support for ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA.

The ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ belongs to Analog Devices' high-efficiency synchronous buck controller product line, engineered for demanding point-of-load applications in industrial automation, telecom infrastructure, and FPGA/ASIC power delivery where light-load efficiency and fast transient response are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ?

The ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ is an evaluation board purpose-built to validate the ADP1873 synchronous step-down PWM controller under real operating conditions. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform for measuring efficiency, transient response, line/load regulation, and PSM behavior-without requiring custom PCB design or firmware. The board ships configured for 1.8 V output at 300 kHz and supports up to 14 A load current.

Does the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ support both single-input and dual-input power configurations?

Yes, the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ supports both configurations via header JP2 and J1. For VIN ≤ 5.5 V, JP2 is jumpered to tie VIN to VDD (single-input). For VIN > 5.5 V, JP2 is open and J1 is connected to VDD (dual-input), isolating the bias rail from high-voltage input stress. This flexibility allows safe evaluation across wide input ranges while maintaining optimal gate drive performance.

How does the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ demonstrate power saving mode (PSM) functionality?

The ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ enables direct observation of PSM operation through oscilloscope waveforms at light loads (e.g., 100 mA–500 mA), showing pulse-skipping behavior with reduced switching frequency and lower quiescent current. Figures 9 and 10 in UG-057 document measurable PSM waveforms, including SW node voltage, inductor current, and output ripple-confirming regulation maintenance and efficiency gains versus forced PWM at sub-1 A loads.

Can the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ be used to evaluate short-circuit protection?

Yes-the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ validates hiccup-mode short-circuit protection per the ADP1873 datasheet. When TP_VOUT1 is shorted to TP_PGND under steady-state regulation, the board enters hiccup mode (Figures 18–19), cycling on/off until fault clearance. This behavior is repeatable and thermally safe, confirming the ADP1873's internal current-limit and thermal foldback mechanisms operate as specified.

What are the key layout and measurement features built into the ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ?

The ADP1873-0.6-EVALZ includes SMB jack footprints at VIN1, VOUT2, and VREG1 for accurate DC voltage monitoring; banana plug terminals for VIN, VOUT, and PGND; and dedicated test points (TP_VIN1, TP_VOUT1, TP_PGND) for current probe and oscilloscope connections. Its 4-layer PCB layout minimizes parasitic inductance in high-current paths and places critical compensation components (C10, C11, R3) near the ADP1873 FB/COMP pins to preserve loop stability.