Diodes Incorporated AP63301WU-EVM

Overview

AP63301WU-EVM from Diodes Incorporated is an evaluation board for the AP63301 synchronous buck converter, designed to demonstrate 3.8V–32V input, 3A output DC-DC conversion with enhanced EMI reduction and PWM-only operation. It features a TSOT26-mounted AP63301 IC, 5V fixed-output configuration (R1=30kΩ, R3=157kΩ), 6.8µH inductor, dual 22µF X5R output capacitors, and test points for VIN, VOUT, EN, SW, and FB.

For engineers reviewing the AP63301WU-EVM datasheet, AP63301WU-EVM pinout, AP63301WU-EVM application, or AP63301WU-EVM equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of efficiency (≥88% at 5mA light load), EMI performance under PFM/PWM modes, thermal behavior at 3A continuous load, and programmable UVLO/enable threshold tuning via external resistors.

Technical Context

The AP63301WU-EVM implements a peak current-mode controlled synchronous buck topology using the AP63301 IC, which integrates 75mΩ high-side and 40mΩ low-side MOSFETs. Its layout follows strict high-current path minimization and split-ground design to suppress switching node ringing and radiated emissions.

Board-level functionality includes selectable enable logic (jumper-driven H/L), bootstrap capacitor (0.1µF ceramic between BST–SW), feed-forward compensation (100pF), and precision feedback network (0.8V ±1% reference). It supports input ripple measurement per Diodes' recommended short-ground-probe method and efficiency testing with series input ammeter + electronic load.

Key Specifications

Availability

AP63301WU-EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA/DSP power sequencing, flat-panel TV bias rails, optical networking point-of-load regulation, and cordless power tool motor control requiring stable component supply and fast evaluation turnaround.

Supply support for AP63301WU-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, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design centers across Asia and manufacturing in China, Taiwan, and the US.

The AP63300/AP63301 product line delivers high-efficiency, low-IQ synchronous buck converters optimized for EMI-sensitive applications including consumer audio, home appliances, and network infrastructure where radiated emissions compliance is critical.

FAQ

What input voltage range does the AP63301WU-EVM support?

The AP63301WU-EVM supports 3.8V to 32V DC input, verified with 12V and 24V test conditions per DS42002 Rev. 3. It uses the AP63301's integrated 75mΩ/40mΩ MOSFETs and internal 500kHz oscillator, enabling direct connection to standard industrial and consumer power buses without external regulators.

How is output voltage set on this evaluation board?

Output voltage is fixed at 5.0V ±1% using R1 = 30kΩ and R3 = 157kΩ in the feedback divider, per Equation VOUT = 0.8V × (1 + R3/R1). The board includes test points for FB and GND to verify reference accuracy and allows resistor replacement for other outputs (e.g., 3.3V, 12V) using values from Table 1 in DS42002.

Does the AP63301WU-EVM include EMI mitigation features?

Yes - it implements the AP63301's proprietary gate driver that suppresses switch-node ringing without degrading turn-on/turn-off times, reducing high-frequency radiated EMI. Unlike the AP63300 variant, it omits Frequency Spread Spectrum (FSS), delivering a clean 500kHz PWM spectrum ideal for conducted EMI filtering and spectral analysis.

Can the AP63301WU-EVM be used for thermal performance testing?

Yes - the board's copper-pour layout, exposed pad soldering, and 3A-rated components (6.8µH inductor, dual 22µF X5R caps) allow full-load thermal validation. Junction temperature is monitored indirectly via thermal shutdown activation at TJ ≥125°C, and ambient operation is rated from –40°C to +85°C per the AP63301's specifications.