Analog Devices Inc. DC2378A-B

Overview

DC2378A-B from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the LTM4650-1 dual-output µModule regulator, enabling rapid validation of 25A per channel or 50A single-output DC/DC conversion with ±0.8% DC accuracy (A-grade), 4.5V–15V input, 0.6V–1.8V output, and synchronized multiphase operation up to 300A. It supports FPGA, ASIC, and microprocessor core voltage regulation with differential remote sensing, fast transient response, and BGA-based power module integration.

For engineers reviewing the DC2378A-B datasheet, DC2378A-B pinout, DC2378A-B application, or DC2378A-B equivalent, this board delivers production-ready reference design validation for high-current, high-accuracy point-of-load regulation - especially where tight ±3% transient window compliance, thermal management under 50A load, and parallel-phase synchronization are critical selection criteria.

Technical Context

The DC2378A-B implements the LTM4650-1A µModule in a fully assembled, tested layout with optimized power delivery network: 22µF ×4 input ceramic capacitors, 220µF ×6 output ceramic bank, 68pF feedforward capacitor, and integrated differential remote sense routing. It exposes all control pins (RUN1/RUN2, TRACK1/TRACK2, MODE_PLLIN, fSET, PHASMD) for mode configuration, soft-start sequencing, frequency setting, and phase alignment.

This board validates key LTM4650-1 capabilities including current-mode control with 90ns minimum on-time, ±3% transient regulation at 12.5A/µs load steps, and 500kHz switching (adjustable 400–780kHz via fSET or external clock). It supports both independent dual-output and paralleled single-output modes with precise current sharing and thermal monitoring via TEMP pin.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC2378A-B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power validation, ASIC core supply qualification, and high-density server VRM prototyping requiring stable component supply, pre-validated thermal performance, and production-intent layout fidelity.

Supply support for DC2378A-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. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, communications, industrial, and automotive markets.

The DC2378A-B belongs to Analog Devices' µModule evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate time-to-test for power system designers validating complex, high-current DC/DC modules in real-world PCB environments.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC2378A-B evaluation board?

The DC2378A-B evaluation board is a fully assembled hardware platform designed to validate the LTM4650-1A dual-output µModule regulator. It enables engineers to evaluate 25A per channel or 50A single-output operation, verify ±0.8% DC accuracy, assess transient response under dynamic loads, and test multiphase synchronization - all using production-relevant layout, decoupling, and thermal design. The DC2378A-B provides direct access to all control and monitoring pins required for full characterization of the LTM4650-1A device.

Does the DC2378A-B support both dual-output and single-output configurations of the LTM4650-1A?

Yes, the DC2378A-B supports both configurations. In dual-output mode, it delivers two independent 25A rails (e.g., 1.2V and 1.0V) with separate RUN, TRACK, and PGOOD signals. In single-output mode, it configures both channels in parallel to deliver up to 50A at one regulated voltage (e.g., 1.0V), with synchronized current sharing and shared feedback. Jumper settings and schematic options on the DC2378A-B board enable seamless reconfiguration without hardware modification.

How does the DC2378A-B implement remote voltage sensing for the LTM4650-1A?

The DC2378A-B implements differential remote sensing using the LTM4650-1A's DIFFP, DIFFN, and DIFFOUT pins. It routes dedicated sense traces from the load-side VOUT and PGND pads to the DIFFP and DIFFN inputs, with DIFFOUT connected to VOUTS1 to close the remote feedback loop. This configuration achieves <3mV effective offset and maintains ±0.8% total DC accuracy at the load point - critical for low-voltage, high-current applications like FPGA core supplies where IR drop would otherwise degrade regulation.

Can the DC2378A-B be used to evaluate multiphase operation with multiple LTM4650-1A modules?

Yes, the DC2378A-B includes provisions for multiphase evaluation: CLKOUT, MODE_PLLIN, and PHASMD pins are brought out to headers, enabling synchronization of up to six LTM4650-1A devices for 300A total output. The board's layout minimizes skew between clock and phase-control signals, and its ground plane design supports clean current sharing. When used with additional DC2378A-B boards or compatible µModule eval platforms, it validates interleaved timing, phase offset programming (60°/90°/120°), and master-slave tracking behavior per Analog Devices' PolyPhase® specifications.

What thermal management features are implemented on the DC2378A-B for 50A operation?

The DC2378A-B incorporates thermal management features essential for sustained 50A operation: a 4-layer PCB with 2oz copper on power planes, thermal vias under the LTM4650-1A BGA package connecting to internal ground and power planes, and a dedicated TEMP pin interface for external temperature monitoring. It also includes footprint space for optional heatsink attachment and supports junction temperature measurement via the onboard PNP diode (TEMP pin), allowing correlation with LTM4650-1A's specified 125°C maximum internal operating temperature. Thermal imaging data from DC2378A-B testing confirms ≤55°C case rise at 50A/1.0V with 200LFM airflow.