Analog Devices Inc. DC367A

Overview

DC367A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration board for the LT1963-3.3 low-dropout linear regulator, delivering 1.5A output current with 340mV dropout at full load and 40µVRMS output noise (10Hz–100kHz). It implements Kelvin-sense configuration for precision regulation in high-current logic power supplies and post-regulation of switching converters.

For engineers reviewing the DC367A datasheet, DC367A pinout, DC367A application, or DC367A equivalent, this page provides verified board-level specifications, thermal performance data, layout-validated transient response, and confirmed compatibility with LT1963-3.3 in SO-8 package - critical for RF supply filtering, battery-powered systems, and industrial embedded power design.

Technical Context

The DC367A implements the LT1963-3.3 IC in an 8-lead SO package with exposed pad thermal management, using a Kelvin-sense connection (SENSE pin tied to load point) to eliminate PCB trace IR drop effects. Input bypassing uses 3.3µF tantalum, while output stabilization relies on a 10µF tantalum capacitor meeting ESR requirements (50mΩ–3Ω).

It supports fast transient response via optimized loop compensation and integrates reverse battery protection, thermal limiting, and <1µA shutdown quiescent current - enabling reliable operation in automotive infotainment and portable instrumentation where input reversal and thermal stress are common.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC367A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF power conditioning, battery-backed instrumentation, and industrial control system development requiring stable component supply and validated thermal performance.

Supply support for DC367A 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 acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains full technical support, documentation, and product lifecycle management for legacy Linear evaluation boards including DC367A.

The DC367A belongs to Linear's precision power demonstration platform family, designed specifically to validate high-performance LDO behavior - including fast transient response, low-noise operation, and robust protection features - in real-world PCB layouts.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC367A evaluation board?

The DC367A evaluation board demonstrates the LT1963-3.3 low-dropout regulator in a production-ready SO-8 layout, validating its 1.5A output capability, 340mV dropout, 40µVRMS noise, and Kelvin-sense accuracy. It serves as a reference for integrating the LT1963-3.3 into noise-sensitive applications such as RF transceivers and precision analog front-ends. The DC367A includes test points, thermal vias, and documented layout practices directly applicable to end-product designs.

Does DC367A support adjustable output voltage configurations?

No, DC367A is configured exclusively for the LT1963-3.3 fixed 3.3V output version. It does not include resistor dividers or ADJ pin routing required for adjustable operation. To evaluate the adjustable LT1963, users must refer to DC181A or design a custom board with R1/R2 feedback network. The DC367A schematic and layout are optimized for fixed 3.3V use cases like logic rail regulation and post-filtering of switch-mode supplies.

What thermal performance can be expected from DC367A under full 1.5A load?

With the SO-8 package's exposed pad fully soldered to a 2500mm² copper area, DC367A achieves θ_JA ≈ 38°C/W, limiting junction temperature rise to ~57°C above ambient at 1.5A (P_D ≈ 0.51W). This enables continuous 1.5A operation at ambient temperatures up to 68°C without thermal shutdown. Performance degrades to θ_JA = 70°C/W with minimal copper, restricting full-load operation to ≤40°C ambient.

Can DC367A be used with input voltages below 3.64V?

No - the LT1963-3.3 on DC367A requires a minimum input voltage of 3.64V (3.3V + 340mV dropout) to maintain regulation at 1.5A. At lower inputs, output voltage collapses proportionally. For sub-3.64V operation, a lower-V_OUT variant (e.g., LT1963-2.5 on DC366A) or higher-current LDO with lower dropout must be selected. DC367A's input range is validated from 3.64V to 20V per Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Is the SENSE pin on DC367A connected to the load or the regulator output?

On DC367A, the SENSE pin is routed to the load point (Kelvin sense), not directly to the OUT pin - enabling accurate regulation despite PCB trace resistance between the LT1963-3.3 and downstream circuitry. This configuration eliminates voltage error caused by load-current-induced IR drop in output traces, ensuring ±1.5% output accuracy at the load under full 1.5A conditions. The board includes dedicated SENSE test points for probing.