Analog Devices Inc. DC734A

Overview

DC734A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a dual-channel synchronous step-down DC/DC regulator evaluation board built around the LTC3407-2EDD IC. It delivers up to 800mA per channel across input voltages of 2.5V–5.5V, supports selectable output voltages (1.2V/1.5V/1.8V on VOUT1 and 2.5V on VOUT2), operates at 2.25MHz nominal switching frequency, and achieves up to 96% peak efficiency - optimized for space-constrained, battery-powered handheld devices.

For engineers reviewing the DC734A datasheet, DC734A pinout, DC734A application, or DC734A equivalent, this demo board enables rapid validation of dual-output, high-frequency buck regulation with Burst Mode™ and Pulse Skip mode selection, low-noise light-load performance, thermal management via exposed-pad DFN layout, and configurable voltage/output sequencing using onboard jumpers JP1–JP4.

Technical Context

The DC734A implements two independent synchronous buck regulators using the LTC3407-2EDD, each featuring integrated 0.12Ω high-side and 0.11Ω low-side MOSFETs, internal compensation, and programmable operating mode via MODE/SYNC pin configuration. The board supports fixed-output configurations without external feedback resistors for VOUT1 (via JP3) and fixed 2.5V for VOUT2.

It uses 2.2μH shielded inductors (L1/L2), 10μF X5R ceramic input/output capacitors, and includes optional damping capacitor C5 for long-input-lead scenarios. Shutdown current is <1μA (excluding POR pull-up), and quiescent current in Burst Mode is 40μA.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC734A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable instrumentation, wearable health monitors, low-power IoT edge nodes, and dual-rail embedded microcontroller systems requiring stable component supply and fast design validation.

Supply support for DC734A 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. (acquired Linear Technology in 2017) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors, serving precision, industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The DC734A belongs to Linear Technology's demonstration circuit series designed specifically to accelerate evaluation of their high-frequency, high-efficiency DC/DC converter ICs - emphasizing ease-of-use, thermal integrity, and real-world performance validation in compact form factors.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC734A?

The DC734A is a fully assembled demonstration circuit that evaluates the LTC3407-2EDD dual synchronous step-down regulator. Its primary function is to provide engineers with a ready-to-test platform for validating 2.25MHz, 800mA-per-channel buck conversion across 2.5V–5.5V inputs, with selectable VOUT1 voltages and fixed 2.5V VOUT2 - all while demonstrating Burst Mode™ and Pulse Skip operation modes. The DC734A simplifies prototyping for space-sensitive, battery-operated applications.

Does the DC734A support adjustable output voltages beyond the jumper options?

No - the DC734A provides only the three fixed VOUT1 options (1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V) via JP3 and a fixed 2.5V VOUT2. The LTC3407-2EDD itself supports externally adjustable outputs using feedback resistors, but the DC734A board omits those components to streamline evaluation. To implement custom output voltages, users must modify the feedback network per the LTC3407-2 datasheet - not supported out-of-box on the DC734A.

What are the key differences between Burst Mode™ and Pulse Skip mode on the DC734A?

Burst Mode™ reduces quiescent current to 40μA and maximizes light-load efficiency but increases output ripple and audible noise. Pulse Skip mode maintains lower output ripple (<20mV_P–P) at light loads and eliminates subharmonic noise, at the cost of slightly higher quiescent current. Mode selection on the DC734A is controlled exclusively by jumper JP4 - no firmware or register writes required. Both modes preserve the DC734A's 96% peak efficiency under full load.

Can the DC734A be used for thermal performance testing?

Yes - the DC734A mounts the LTC3407-2EDD in a 10-pin DFN package with an exposed thermal pad soldered directly to the PCB ground plane, enabling direct thermal resistance measurement. With its 2.2μH inductors, low-ESR ceramic capacitors, and optimized copper pour, the board sustains 800mA per channel continuously at room temperature. Thermal imaging or thermocouple measurements at U1's exposed pad and inductor bodies are valid for system-level thermal modeling of the DC734A's implementation.

Is the DC734A RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes - the DC734A was manufactured to Linear Technology's standard RoHS-compliant, lead-free specifications as of its 2004 release and subsequent revisions. All passives (capacitors, resistors, inductors), connectors (JP1–JP4), and the LTC3407-2EDD IC meet JEDEC J-STD-609 Category 1 marking requirements. Board finish is ENIG (Electroless Nickel Immersion Gold), and solder paste used is lead-free SAC305-compatible.