Analog Devices Inc. DC187A-B

Overview

DC187A-B from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a fully assembled, tested demonstration board for the LT1374 500kHz, 4.5A monolithic step-down switching regulator in 16-pin TSSOP package. It implements a fixed 5V output configuration with external boost capacitor, synchronous-ready layout, and cycle-by-cycle current limiting. Designed for evaluation of high-efficiency buck conversion in battery-powered systems and distributed power rails.

For engineers reviewing the DC187A-B datasheet, DC187A-B pinout, DC187A-B application, or DC187A-B equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of LT1374 performance under real-world load transients, thermal stress, and input voltage variation (6V to 25V), while supporting optional synchronization and shutdown control.

Technical Context

The DC187A-B implements the LT1374's current-mode topology with a 500kHz fixed-frequency oscillator, internal 4.5A NPN power switch, and BOOST-driven saturation architecture achieving ≤0.07Ω on-resistance. It uses all surface-mount components including a 5µH shielded inductor, MBRS330T3 Schottky catch diode, and solid tantalum output capacitor.

Board-level features include dedicated test points for VIN, VOUT, VSW, VC, SHDN, and SYNC; exposed pad thermal management via soldered ground plane; and jumper-selectable shutdown/synchronization functionality. The design supports continuous operation up to 4.25A at 5V with input voltages from 6V to 25V.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC187A-B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable computers, battery-powered instrumentation, and distributed power subsystems requiring stable component supply, fast evaluation turnaround, and production-representative thermal and EMI behavior.

Supply support for DC187A-B 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 DC187A-B belongs to Linear Technology's legacy demonstration board family, engineered specifically to validate the LT1374 buck regulator's high-current, high-frequency operation in real PCB environments - targeting portable, automotive, and industrial power applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC187A-B evaluation board?

The DC187A-B evaluation board is a ready-to-use hardware platform designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the performance of the LT1374-5 500kHz, 4.5A step-down switching regulator. It provides full access to key signals (VIN, VOUT, VSW, VC, SHDN, SYNC), supports thermal testing via its exposed-pad TSSOP footprint, and implements a production-grade 5V/4.25A buck converter circuit using surface-mount components - enabling immediate functional verification without custom layout.

Does the DC187A-B support synchronization of the LT1374 switching frequency?

Yes, the DC187A-B supports external synchronization of the LT1374's internal oscillator. The board includes a dedicated SYNC test point and jumper configuration that allows an external logic-level signal (10%–90% duty cycle, 580kHz–1MHz range) to override the default 500kHz frequency. This capability is implemented per the LT1374's SYNC pin specification and enables noise-sensitive system designs to align switching events with other clock domains.

Can the DC187A-B be used to evaluate adjustable-output configurations of the LT1374?

No, the DC187A-B is configured exclusively for the LT1374-5 fixed 5V output variant and uses the SENSE pin connection. It does not support adjustable-output operation because the feedback divider network is not present - the board relies on the internal 5V reference and SENSE pin routing defined for the -5 suffix part. To evaluate adjustable outputs, a different demo board (e.g., DC187A-A) or custom design is required.

What is the maximum recommended input voltage for the DC187A-B?

The DC187A-B is rated for a maximum input voltage of 25V, consistent with the absolute maximum rating of the LT1374 (non-HV version) and the voltage ratings of onboard components including the MBRS330T3 Schottky diode (30V VR) and 100µF/10V tantalum output capacitor. Operation above 25V risks damage to the LT1374 and violates the board's validated design envelope - the LT1374HV variant requires a different board revision.

How is thermal performance managed on the DC187A-B?

Thermal performance on the DC187A-B is managed through direct soldering of the LT1374's exposed pad to an internal copper ground plane, achieving a measured θJA of approximately 30°C/W. The board layout includes generous thermal vias under the IC and prioritizes low-impedance ground return paths for high dI/dt currents. This design allows the DC187A-B to sustain 4.25A output continuously at 5V with ambient temperatures up to 70°C - verified per LT1374's TJMAX = 125°C limit.