Analog Devices Inc. DC2450A-A

Overview

DC2450A-A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is an evaluation board for the LTC2936 programmable hex voltage supervisor IC. It enables full I²C configuration, real-time fault monitoring across six independent voltage rails (0.2V–5.8V), and validation of EEPROM-backed fault history, comparator outputs, GPIO mapping, and programmable delay-on-release timing - all in a production-representative 24-pin QFN layout. Used for validating power sequencing and fault response in high-availability server and telecom power systems.

For engineers reviewing the DC2450A-A datasheet, DC2450A-A pinout, DC2450A-A application, or DC2450A-A equivalent, this board provides hardware-accessible SCL/SDA, jumper-configurable ASEL pins, test points for all six V_n inputs and six CMP_n outputs, and direct access to GPI/GPIO signals - enabling rapid validation of I²C register writes, threshold accuracy (±1%), comparator response (<7.5 µs), and autonomous EEPROM-based supervision without host firmware.

Technical Context

The DC2450A-A implements the LTC2936's full functional architecture: dual-comparator per channel supervision with precision (±1%), low (±15 mV), and medium (±30 mV) threshold accuracy modes; three configurable GPIOs supporting open-drain or weak-pull-up output with eight selectable delay-on-release values (1 ms to 1.64 s); and two GPI inputs assignable as MR, UVDIS, MARG, WP, or AUXC. All parameters are modified via I²C using standard SMBus protocols.

It supports both VPWR-powered operation (3.4V–13.9V) and external 3.3V biasing, includes on-board 100 nF bypass capacitors at VPWR and VDD33, and exposes the QFN package's thermal pad for thermal characterization. The board maps all 24 pins of the LTC2936CUFD/IUFD packages with 0.5 mm pitch, matching production layout constraints for signal integrity and thermal management.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC2450A-A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-availability computer systems, network servers, and telecom equipment requiring stable component supply and validated supervisory reference designs.

Supply support for DC2450A-A 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. (ADI) is a global semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision measurement, power management, and reliability-critical applications.

The DC2450A-A belongs to ADI's Linear Technology evaluation board portfolio, designed specifically to accelerate validation of programmable supervisors in enterprise and infrastructure power systems where deterministic fault response and EEPROM-backed configuration persistence are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC2450A-A evaluation board?

The DC2450A-A evaluation board is a fully assembled and tested platform for the LTC2936 hex voltage supervisor IC. It enables engineers to configure, monitor, and validate all key functions - including I²C-programmable UV/OV thresholds across six channels, GPIO behavior, EEPROM fault logging, and comparator output timing - without custom PCB design. DC2450A-A provides immediate access to all critical signals and supports both VPWR-powered and externally biased operation.

Does DC2450A-A support both C-grade and I-grade LTC2936 variants?

Yes, DC2450A-A is mechanically and electrically compatible with both the LTC2936CUFD#PBF (0°C to 70°C) and LTC2936IUFD#PBF (–40°C to 85°C) QFN variants. The board uses the same 24-pin 4 mm × 5 mm footprint, exposes identical pin functions, and maintains thermal and electrical integrity across the full operating temperature range supported by each grade. No hardware modification is required to evaluate either variant using DC2450A-A.

How does DC2450A-A facilitate I²C register programming and fault verification?

DC2450A-A provides direct solder-point access to SDA and SCL lines with 4.7 kΩ pull-up resistors, test points for all six V_n inputs and six CMP_n outputs, and jumpers for ASEL0/ASEL1 address selection. Users can issue I²C commands (e.g., V1_THR write, STATUS_WORD read, STORE_USER) via any standard I²C master and observe real-time comparator assertions, GPIO state changes, and EEPROM-backed fault history using oscilloscopes or logic analyzers - all while running DC2450A-A under actual rail voltages.

Can DC2450A-A be used to verify the LTC2936's ±1% threshold accuracy specification?

Yes, DC2450A-A supports accurate threshold validation through its low-noise, well-bypassed analog input paths and calibrated test points. When paired with a precision voltage source and multimeter or digitizer, users can sweep V1–V6 inputs across their configured range and measure exact trip points using the associated CMP_n outputs or STATUS_WORD register. The board's layout minimizes parasitic coupling, enabling confirmation of the LTC2936's guaranteed ±1% accuracy in precision mode (0.2V–1.2V) as specified in the DC2450A-A-supported LTC2936 datasheet.

Is thermal pad connection required when using DC2450A-A with the LTC2936 QFN device?

No - the DC2450A-A evaluation board includes the exposed thermal pad (Pin 25) of the LTC2936 QFN package connected to the internal ground plane, but PCB connection is optional per the LTC2936 datasheet. The board's copper area and thermal vias provide sufficient heat dissipation for typical bench evaluation (≤1.5 mA VPWR current). For extended high-temperature stress testing, users may solder the thermal pad to an external heatsink or add thermal interface material, but it is not required for functional validation of DC2450A-A.