Analog Devices Inc. DC143A-D

Overview

DC143A-D from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration board for the LTC1474-3.3 step-down DC/DC converter IC, delivering 3.3V at up to 250mA from 4V–18V input. It integrates the LTC1474-3.3 in an 8-lead SO package, a 100µH Sumida CDRH74-101 inductor, MBR0530 Schottky catch diode, and supports programmable current limit via optional R_SENSE. It is used for rapid evaluation of low-quiescent-current buck conversion in battery-powered instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the DC143A-D datasheet, DC143A-D pinout, DC143A-D application, or DC143A-D equivalent, this page provides verified board-level specifications, functional context, supply chain support, and design-relevant alternatives - all grounded in the official DC143A-D user guide and LTC1474 product documentation.

Technical Context

The DC143A-D implements the LTC1474-3.3 fixed-output variant in Burst Mode™ operation, enabling >92% peak efficiency and 10µA no-load supply current. Its topology uses an internal 1.4Ω P-channel MOSFET switch, 4.75µs minimum off-time, and a 1.23V internal reference with ±2.5% feedback voltage tolerance.

Board-level functionality includes active-low micropower shutdown (6µA typ), low-battery detection with LBO open-drain output, and user-configurable peak current limiting (325–400mA default). The design supports 100% duty cycle for ultra-low dropout and operates across 0°C to 70°C ambient.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC143A-D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, portable medical devices, and low-power wireless sensor nodes requiring stable component supply and fast prototyping validation.

Supply support for DC143A-D 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. (acquired Linear Technology in 2017) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors.

The DC143A-D belongs to Linear Technology's DC143x demonstration board family, designed specifically to accelerate evaluation of their low-I_Q step-down converters for space-constrained, battery-sensitive applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC143A-D demonstration board?

The DC143A-D is a fully assembled evaluation board for the LTC1474-3.3 step-down DC/DC converter. It provides immediate hardware validation of 3.3V output regulation, Burst Mode™ efficiency, low-quiescent-current operation, and programmable current limiting - without requiring custom PCB layout or component sourcing. The DC143A-D enables engineers to verify performance under real load conditions before committing to system-level integration.

Does the DC143A-D support adjustable output voltages?

No, the DC143A-D is configured exclusively for the LTC1474-3.3 fixed-output variant. Its feedback network uses the internal 3.3V resistor divider; no external resistors are populated for V_OUT adjustment. To evaluate adjustable versions (e.g., LTC1474 adjustable or LTC1475-5), users must refer to other demo boards such as DC143A-A or build a custom circuit per the LTC1474 datasheet Figure 4.

What external components are pre-installed on the DC143A-D?

DC143A-D includes the LTC1474-3.3 IC in an 8-lead SO package, Sumida CDRH74-101 (100µH) power inductor, MBR0530 Schottky catch diode, 100µF/6.3V output capacitor, 10µF/25V input capacitor, 100kΩ RUN pull-up resistor, and 0.1µF high-frequency VIN decoupling capacitor. No R_SENSE is installed by default, enabling the 325mA minimum current limit.

Can the DC143A-D be used to evaluate low-battery detection functionality?

Yes. The DC143A-D exposes both LBI (Pin 3) and LBO (Pin 2) signals, allowing direct connection of a resistive divider to set the low-battery threshold (e.g., 1.23V reference trip point). LBO remains active during shutdown, enabling host microcontroller wake-up or LED indication. This behavior is fully documented in the DC143A-D user guide and matches LTC1474 electrical specifications.

Is the DC143A-D compatible with the LTC1475 series?

No. The DC143A-D is designed specifically for the LTC1474-3.3 and does not support LTC1475 features such as pushbutton ON/OFF control or dual-function LBI/OFF pin logic. The LTC1475 requires different RUN/ON pin handling and lacks the dedicated RUN pin used on DC143A-D. Evaluation of LTC1475 variants requires DC143A-B or DC143A-C boards per Linear Technology's demo board documentation.