Analog Devices Inc. DC342A-B

Overview

DC342A-B from Analog Devices is an evaluation board for the LTC1911 low-noise, constant-frequency step-down charge pump IC, configured to deliver 1.5V±4% at up to 250mA output current from a 3.3V input. It features JP1-controlled enable/disable, SS/SD pin access for soft-start observation, and supports ripple measurement at VIN and VOUT with proper probe technique.

For engineers reviewing the DC342A-B datasheet, DC342A-B pinout, DC342A-B application, or DC342A-B equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 1.5V output version, 250mA sourcing-only load capability, JP1-based shutdown control, SS/SD terminal accessibility, and compatibility with the LTC1911's constant-frequency charge-pump architecture.

Technical Context

The DC342A-B implements the LTC1911 in a fully assembled, tested configuration optimized for low-noise power conversion. It operates at a fixed switching frequency (not adjustable), uses external ceramic capacitors for charge pumping, and provides direct access to critical nodes: VIN, VOUT, GND, SS/SD, and EN via JP1.

This board does not integrate regulation feedback components beyond those required for the 1.5V output setting; output voltage accuracy is defined by internal resistor ratios and reference tolerance of the LTC1911, with no user-adjustable trim. The board lacks reverse-current protection or sink capability - load current must flow exclusively from VOUT to GND.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC342A-B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power integrity validation, low-noise analog supply design, portable medical sensor biasing, and battery-powered IoT node development requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping of charge-pump-based regulation.

Supply support for DC342A-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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies.

The DC342A-B belongs to Analog Devices' demonstration board product line, engineered to accelerate evaluation and system integration of their precision power management ICs like the LTC1911.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC342A-B evaluation board?

The DC342A-B evaluation board demonstrates the LTC1911 low-noise, constant-frequency step-down charge pump IC in a fixed 1.5V output configuration. It enables rapid validation of power delivery performance, including output accuracy, soft-start behavior, and input/output ripple under load - all without requiring custom PCB design. DC342A-B provides accessible test points and jumper control for immediate bench testing.

Does the DC342A-B support adjustable output voltage?

No, the DC342A-B is factory-configured for a fixed 1.5V±4% output voltage and does not support user adjustment. This setting is implemented via internal resistor networks tied to the LTC1911's feedback inputs. For variable-output evaluation, a different demo board such as DC342A-A (1.8V) or custom design using the LTC1911 datasheet guidelines is required. DC342A-B is purpose-built for 1.5V rail verification.

Can the DC342A-B sink current or drive bidirectional loads?

No, the DC342A-B - like the underlying LTC1911 - is designed solely to source current from VOUT to GND. It cannot sink current, and connecting a load that draws current into VOUT will cause malfunction or damage. The board documentation explicitly states "the load current must flow from VOUT to GND." DC342A-B reflects this unidirectional sourcing limitation in both layout and labeling.

How is enable/disable functionality implemented on the DC342A-B?

Enable/disable is controlled via jumper JP1: the lower position connects the LTC1911 EN pin to VIN (enabling operation), while the upper position disconnects EN (shutting down VOUT to 0V). This hardware-level control eliminates need for external logic signals. DC342A-B provides no alternative enable method - JP1 is the sole interface for power sequencing, making it ideal for manual lab evaluation but not for dynamic system control.

What are the recommended test conditions for measuring output ripple on the DC342A-B?

For accurate VOUT ripple measurement on the DC342A-B, use a 50Ω load and connect the oscilloscope probe directly between VOUT and GND with minimal ground lead length - ideally by removing the grabber sleeve and using the probe tip and exposed ground spring. Avoid long ground loops. DC342A-B includes dedicated test points and layout guidance (Figure 4) to minimize measurement artifacts and reflect true LTC1911 performance.