Analog Devices Inc. DC1661A

Overview

DC1661A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration circuit board featuring parallel LT3579 and LT3579-1 boost regulators, designed to convert 5V–10V input to 12V at 3.5A output with short-circuit survivability via external disconnect MOSFET. It supports dual-output configuration and operates with 1MHz switching frequency, 83–92% efficiency, and ≤50mV output ripple.

For engineers reviewing the DC1661A datasheet, DC1661A pinout, DC1661A application, or DC1661A equivalent, this page delivers verified performance data, board-level configuration options (input/output disconnect, dual-output split), thermal and layout considerations for high-current boost operation, and direct reference to the LT3579/LT3579-1 ICs used on the board.

Technical Context

DC1661A implements two LT3579/LT3579-1 ICs in parallel master-slave boost topology, sharing feedback and synchronization signals to deliver 12V/3.5A from 5–10V input. Each IC integrates a 42V/6A switch pair, 2.5–16V input range, programmable 1MHz switching frequency, soft-start, and UVLO.

The board includes configurable hardware options: output-side disconnect MOSFET (Q2 pre-installed), input-side disconnect option (requires Q1/R2 placement and copper cut), and dual-output mode (via trace cut and R13/R14 removal). All configurations maintain stable regulation under full load and survive sustained output shorts.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1661A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-current DC/DC evaluation, industrial power module prototyping, and dual-rail supply development requiring stable component supply and documented reference design validation.

Supply support for DC1661A 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, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

DC1661A belongs to Linear Technology's demonstration circuit portfolio, engineered to accelerate adoption of its high-voltage, high-current DC/DC controllers-specifically targeting engineers evaluating parallel boost architectures for >3A applications where thermal distribution and fault resilience are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of DC1661A?

DC1661A is a fully assembled demonstration board that implements two LT3579/LT3579-1 DC/DC controllers in parallel to deliver 12V at up to 3.5A from a 5–10V input. It is not an IC or discrete component but a functional reference design enabling rapid evaluation of high-current boost topologies, including short-circuit survival and dual-output reconfiguration. The DC1661A board includes all necessary passives, magnetics, and MOSFETs for immediate bench testing.

Can DC1661A be used for dual-output applications?

Yes, DC1661A supports dual-output operation. To configure it, users must cut the designated copper trace (per Figure 3), remove resistors R13 and R14, and independently set feedback and compensation components for each output rail. This modification decouples the two boost stages, allowing independent voltage programming-e.g., 5V + 12V or 12V + 15V-while retaining shared input and control resources. The DC1661A manual provides exact layout guidance for this mode.

What protection features does DC1661A include?

DC1661A incorporates output short-circuit survivability using an external P-channel MOSFET (Si7141DP) placed at the output by default. It also supports optional input-side disconnect via Q1 installation and PCB modification. The board leverages the LT3579's built-in UVLO, soft-start, and cycle-by-cycle current limiting. No additional protection ICs or external circuitry are required-the DC1661A design ensures safe operation during fault events without latch-off or damage.

What are the key layout considerations when modifying DC1661A?

Modifications to DC1661A-including dual-output split or input-side disconnect-require precise PCB cuts and component placement per the official demo manual (Figures 2 and 3). Critical paths (power loops, gate drive traces, feedback routing) must remain unaltered to preserve stability and EMI performance. Thermal relief for high-current nodes (VIN, VOUT, SW pins) is optimized on the original board; any added copper or component relocation may impact thermal dissipation or loop inductance. Always verify modifications with oscilloscope ripple and load-step measurements before deployment.

Where can I obtain design files and schematics for DC1661A?

Complete design files-including schematic, PCB layout (Gerber), BOM, and assembly drawings-for DC1661A are publicly available on Analog Devices' website at https://www.analog.com/en/design-center/evaluation-hardware-and-software/evaluation-boards-kits/dc1661a.html (archived from Linear Technology's linear.com/demo). These files are licensed for engineering evaluation use only and may not be redistributed or used for commercial manufacturing without written permission from Analog Devices.