Analog Devices Inc. DC1623A

Overview

DC1623A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is an evaluation board for the LTM8033 ultralow-noise, EMC-compliant 36V input, 3A µModule buck regulator. It implements a complete 12V/3A step-down power supply with EN55022 Class B radiated emissions compliance, programmable switching frequency (850kHz), and soft-start control - enabling rapid validation in industrial and automotive power applications.

For engineers reviewing the DC1623A datasheet, DC1623A pinout, DC1623A application, or DC1623A equivalent, this board provides verified layout, thermal performance, EMI filter implementation, and functional test points for LTM8033-based designs requiring robust 3A DC/DC conversion across 3.6V–36V input range.

Technical Context

The DC1623A hosts the LTM8033 in its 76-lead LGA package (11.25mm × 15mm × 4.32mm), integrating all power train components including controller, MOSFETs, inductor, EMI filter, and support passives. It operates with VIN = 20V–36V, delivers VOUT = 12V at up to 3A, and uses external RT = 41.2kΩ to set fSW = 850kHz per the LTM8033's resistor-programmable oscillator.

Board-level design includes bulk input capacitors (2.2µF ceramic), output filtering (47µF polymer + 1µF ceramic), FIN node decoupling (1µF), and dedicated test points for RUN/SS, PGOOD, SYNC, and ADJ. Thermal management relies on internal LTM8033 θJCbottom = 5.2°C/W and PCB copper pour under the module.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1623A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, automotive battery regulation, distributed supply regulation, and wall transformer replacement applications requiring stable component supply and fast prototyping of high-efficiency 3A DC/DC converters.

Supply support for DC1623A 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 DC1623A belongs to Analog Devices' µModule evaluation board family, designed specifically to accelerate development of power solutions using their integrated DC/DC modules - emphasizing layout fidelity, thermal validation, and EMI-compliant reference designs.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1623A evaluation board?

The DC1623A evaluation board demonstrates and validates the LTM8033 µModule regulator in a production-ready 12V/3A buck configuration. It provides full access to control pins (RUN/SS, SYNC, PGOOD), measurement points for efficiency and ripple analysis, and a thermally optimized layout that meets EN55022 Class B emissions - allowing engineers to verify performance before custom PCB design. The DC1623A is not a standalone power supply but a characterization and integration tool for the DC1623A.

Does the DC1623A support adjustable output voltage?

Yes - the DC1623A can be reconfigured for output voltages from 0.8V to 24V by replacing the RADJ resistor per the formula RADJ = 394.21/(VOUT – 0.79) kΩ. The default 34.8kΩ sets 12V, and the board includes solder pads and documentation for alternative RADJ values. All other LTM8033 functions - including frequency programming via RT and soft-start via RUN/SS - remain fully accessible on the DC1623A.

Can the DC1623A be used to evaluate parallel operation of multiple LTM8033 devices?

Yes - the DC1623A includes the SHARE pin (A6) routed to a test point and supports current sharing when connected to identical DC1623A boards or other LTM8033-based designs. Parallel operation requires matched RT resistors and synchronized clocking (via SYNC) for optimal load balancing. The DC1623A's layout preserves signal integrity for SHARE and SYNC nets, enabling reliable multi-module testing up to 6A+ with proper thermal derating.

What input voltage range is validated on the DC1623A, and what happens outside that range?

The DC1623A is characterized and tested for 20V–36V input, matching the typical application circuit in the LTM8033 datasheet (TA01a). Operation below 20V may cause startup failure or reduced output current capability due to insufficient headroom for the LTM8033's minimum 3.6V operating voltage and internal bias requirements. The DC1623A does not include protection against overvoltage beyond 36V, and exceeding VIN = 36V risks damage to the LTM8033 and DC1623A components.

Is the DC1623A RoHS compliant and suitable for automotive qualification?

Yes - the DC1623A uses RoHS-compliant components and is assembled with SAC305 solder (per LTM8033EY#PBF variant). While the board itself is not AEC-Q200 qualified, it evaluates the LTM8033IV#PBF and LTM8033MPV#PBF variants rated for –40°C to 125°C and –55°C to 125°C junction temperature, respectively - making the DC1623A a valid platform for pre-qualification testing in automotive battery regulation and infotainment power systems. Full automotive qualification requires system-level validation using the DC1623A as a reference.