Analog Devices Inc. DC308A

Overview

DC308A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a dual-channel evaluation board featuring two independent LTC3401EMS10 synchronous boost converters-one operating at 3MHz for ultra-compact one-cell-to-3.3V applications, and the other at 1MHz with jumper-selectable 3.3V/5V output for balanced efficiency and size. It supports input as low as 1V, delivers up to 395mA at 3.3V/1.8V input, and uses integrated 0.16Ω N-channel and 0.18Ω P-channel MOSFETs.

For engineers reviewing the DC308A datasheet, DC308A pinout, DC308A application, or DC308A equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-efficiency, low-input-voltage boost regulation in space-constrained portable electronics, energy-harvesting systems, and single-cell battery-powered sensors-where startup voltage margin, output stability under dynamic load, and layout-sensitive high-frequency switching performance are critical selection criteria.

Technical Context

The DC308A implements two discrete LTC3401EMS10-based boost topologies: the 3MHz channel uses a 1µH inductor (L1) and compact 0402/0603 passives to minimize footprint, while the 1MHz channel employs a 3.3µH inductor (L2) and supports output selection via JP1. Both channels use synchronous rectification and external resistor-programmable switching frequency.

Input voltage range is 1V to 5V; operation below 1V is unsupported. Output regulation requires VIN < VOUT. Shutdown control is implemented via a shunt jumper on the RUN pin (E5), and output monitoring is accessible at dedicated test points (E1–E4, E7–E8). No onboard microcontroller or firmware-pure analog power evaluation.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC308A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, coin-cell IoT endpoints, low-power wearables, and energy-harvesting power management systems requiring stable component supply and validated reference designs for sub-1.2V startup boost conversion.

Supply support for DC308A 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. (including legacy Linear Technology products) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, industrial automation, communications, and power conversion markets.

The DC308A belongs to Linear Technology's demonstration circuit series, designed specifically to accelerate design-in and performance validation of their high-efficiency, ultralow-input-voltage DC/DC converters in real-world PCB environments.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required to start up DC308A?

The DC308A requires a minimum input voltage of 1V to initiate startup across both boost channels. Below 1V, the LTC3401EMS10 controllers cannot bias internal circuitry or gate the integrated MOSFETs. Once running, the 3MHz channel can sustain operation with input dropping below 1V due to output-fed biasing-but initial startup must meet or exceed 1V. Always observe the 5V absolute maximum input limit.

How do I configure DC308A for 5V output?

To configure DC308A for 5V output, locate JP1 (a 2-pin shunt header near the bottom converter) and install the shunt on pins 2–3 (labeled "5V"). The default position (pins 1–2) selects 3.3V. This jumper directly routes feedback to the appropriate resistor divider network on the 1MHz LTC3401EMS10 channel (U2); the 3MHz channel (U1) remains fixed at 3.3V and is unaffected.

Can DC308A operate with input voltage higher than output voltage?

No-DC308A's boost topology only regulates when input voltage is less than the selected output voltage (e.g., 1.8V input → 3.3V output). If VIN ≥ VOUT, the LTC3401EMS10 enters pass-through mode with no regulation; output follows input minus diode/MOSFET drops. Regulation is disabled per design, and efficiency degrades significantly. The board is not intended for buck or bypass operation.

What is the purpose of the shunt on E5 (RUN pin)?

The shunt on test point E5 connects the RUN pin of the LTC3401EMS10 (U1) to ground, holding the device in shutdown. Removing that shunt allows the RUN pin to pull up internally, enabling switching operation. This provides safe, tool-free enable/disable control without soldering or external logic-critical for bench evaluation where accidental startup or inrush current must be avoided during probing.

Are the two boost channels on DC308A electrically isolated?

No-the two LTC3401EMS10 channels on DC308A share a common ground plane and input rail (VIN/GND), and their feedback networks are independent but not galvanically isolated. They operate autonomously but are not isolated: cross-talk may occur at high frequencies, and loading one channel affects shared input source impedance. For true isolation, separate boards or transformer-based topologies are required.