Diodes Incorporated AP62401WU-EVM

Overview

AP62401WU-EVM from Diodes Incorporated is an evaluation board for the AP62401 synchronous buck converter - a 4A, COT-controlled DC/DC regulator supporting 4.2V–18V input and adjustable 0.8V–7V output. It integrates 50mΩ high-side and 22mΩ low-side MOSFETs in TSOT26, delivers up to 83% efficiency at 5mA light load, and features proprietary EMI-optimized gate drive for reduced radiated noise in consumer and embedded power rails.

For engineers reviewing the AP62401WU-EVM datasheet, AP62401WU-EVM schematic, AP62401WU-EVM test points, or AP62401WU-EVM BOM, this board enables rapid validation of transient response, efficiency, switching frequency (800kHz @ 12V_IN/5V_OUT), thermal behavior, and EMI performance under real-world load conditions - with pre-populated 5V configuration and accessible VIN/VOUT/SW/EN test points.

Technical Context

The AP62401WU-EVM implements the AP62401 IC in a fixed-layout, single-sided PCB design optimized for minimal parasitic inductance and repeatable measurement. It uses Constant On-Time (COT) control architecture to achieve fast load-step response without external compensation, while the integrated gate driver suppresses switching-node ringing without degrading turn-on/turn-off timing.

Designed for 5V output by default (R1=52.3kΩ, R2=10kΩ), the board supports reconfiguration for other outputs (1.2V–3.3V) via resistor replacement per Table 1. Input filtering includes 10µF ceramic (C1), output filtering uses dual 22µF ceramics (C2/C3) and 100nF bypass (C6), and the 2.2µH shielded inductor (L1) is rated for 4.2A saturation current.

Key Specifications

Availability

AP62401WU-EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA/DSP power sequencing, flat-panel TV main rail evaluation, and network system PoL validation requiring stable component supply, traceable evaluation hardware, and documented test-point access.

Supply support for AP62401WU-EVM 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, specializing in power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for consumer, industrial, and computing markets.

The AP62401 product line delivers high-efficiency, low-EMI synchronous buck converters targeting space-constrained, noise-sensitive applications such as home audio, gaming consoles, and distributed power buses - with emphasis on ease of use and robust transient performance.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage configured on the AP62401WU-EVM?

The board ships configured for 5.0V output using a 52.3kΩ/10kΩ resistor divider on the FB pin, delivering 5.0V ±1% at room temperature under no-load and full-load conditions. This matches the recommended component selection in Table 1 of the AP62401 datasheet and is verified in the Quick Start Guide.

How do I enable or disable the AP62401 IC on the evaluation board?

Enable/disable is controlled via jumper JH8: placing it in the "ON" position connects the EN pin to VIN through a 100kΩ resistor, asserting high logic to start regulation; leaving JH8 open disables the IC. The "OFF" position shorts EN to GND, forcing shutdown - all states are explicitly defined in the Quick Start Guide.

Which test points are provided for measuring switching node waveform and output ripple?

SW node is accessible at JH6, and VOUT is accessible at JH5 - both routed to 0.094" turret terminals for low-inductance oscilloscope probing. For accurate ripple measurement, the datasheet mandates shortest possible ground lead length on the probe to avoid injecting high-frequency noise into readings.

Can the AP62401WU-EVM be used to evaluate output voltages other than 5V?

Yes - output voltage is set by the R1/R2 feedback divider. To evaluate alternate outputs (e.g., 3.3V or 1.8V), replace R1 with the value specified in Table 1 of the AP62401 datasheet while retaining R2 = 10kΩ. The board's layout accommodates 0603 resistors, and all required values are listed with corresponding inductor and capacitor recommendations.