Analog Devices Inc. DC1864A

Overview

DC1864A from Analog Devices is a demonstration board for the LTC3621-2 - a 17V, 1A synchronous step-down regulator with 2.25MHz fixed switching frequency, 0.6V to VIN adjustable output, and ultralow 3.5µA quiescent current in shutdown. It supports Burst Mode®, pulse-skipping, and forced continuous operation, and targets space-constrained, low-power industrial and automotive power rails.

For engineers reviewing the DC1864A datasheet, DC1864A pinout, DC1864A application, or DC1864A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-frequency, low-I_Q buck regulation under real-world load transients, input dropout, and external clock synchronization - critical for portable scanners, emergency radios, and embedded computing power supplies.

Technical Context

The DC1864A implements the LTC3621-2 in its 6-lead DFN (2mm × 3mm) package, configured for adjustable output voltage via external resistor divider on FB. It features full support for MODE/SYNC pin control modes - including external clock synchronization within ±40% of 2.25MHz - and integrates all necessary input/output capacitors, a 4.7µH shielded inductor, and PGOOD monitoring circuitry.

Designed for evaluation across the full 2.7V–17V input range and 0.6V–VIN output range, the board delivers up to 1A continuous output with ±1% V_OUT accuracy, operates down to zero load in forced continuous mode, and maintains stable regulation during high-duty-cycle dropout conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC1864A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial embedded computing, automotive infotainment power rails, and portable handheld scanner designs requiring stable component supply and fast time-to-test.

Supply support for DC1864A 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. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, industrial automation, and automotive safety markets.

The DC1864A belongs to Analog Devices' Power by Linear™ evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of high-efficiency, low-quiescent-current DC/DC regulators for battery-powered and thermally constrained applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC1864A evaluation board?

The DC1864A evaluation board demonstrates the LTC3621-2 synchronous step-down regulator in a fully assembled, tested configuration. It enables engineers to validate 2.25MHz switching performance, low-I_Q operation, MODE/SYNC control behavior, and PGOOD signaling without custom PCB development. The board ships with default components optimized for 2.5V/3.3V/5V outputs and supports immediate bench testing of DC1864A functionality.

Does the DC1864A support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the DC1864A fully supports external clock synchronization via the MODE/SYNC pin of the LTC3621-2. When an external clock signal within ±40% of 2.25MHz (i.e., 1.35MHz–3.15MHz) is applied, the DC1864A locks to that frequency and operates in forced continuous mode. The board includes dedicated test points and routing to facilitate clean clock injection and verification of sync acquisition within 2–3 cycles.

Can the DC1864A be used to evaluate light-load efficiency modes?

Yes, the DC1864A supports all three operating modes of the LTC3621-2: Burst Mode® (for <3.5µA I_Q at light loads), pulse-skipping (for lowest output ripple), and forced continuous (for predictable EMI). Jumper-selectable MODE/SYNC configurations allow direct comparison of efficiency vs. ripple trade-offs across load currents from 10µA to 1A - essential for optimizing DC1864A-based power stages in battery-critical applications.

What output voltage options are pre-configured on the DC1864A?

The DC1864A is shipped with resistor dividers enabling quick evaluation of 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5V outputs - matching common logic and interface rail requirements. The FB node is accessible for user-defined adjustments from 0.6V to VIN, and the board includes footprint options for alternative feedback resistors. All configurations maintain ±1% output accuracy and full 1A capability as specified for the underlying LTC3621-2 device on DC1864A.

Is thermal performance characterized for the DC1864A under full load?

Yes, the DC1864A layout maximizes thermal dissipation using the LTC3621-2's exposed DFN pad, which is soldered directly to a large internal copper plane. At 1A output with 12V input and 3.3V output, the board achieves steady-state junction temperatures below 95°C in still air - well within the LTC3621-2's 125°C rated limit. Thermal images and transient response data for DC1864A are provided in the official Analog Devices demo manual.