Analog Devices Inc. DC952A

Overview

DC952A from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a fully assembled, tested evaluation board for the LTC3810EG synchronous step-down switching regulator controller. It implements a 12V/6A output from 13V–80V input, operates at 230kHz, supports forced continuous or pulse-skip mode via JP1, and features Power Good monitoring and external clock synchronization capability - used for high-voltage telecom and industrial DC-DC converter validation.

For engineers reviewing the DC952A datasheet, DC952A pinout, DC952A application, or DC952A equivalent, this page delivers verified operating modes (forced continuous/pulse-skip/sync), measured efficiency (96.4% @24V/6A), PGOOD behavior (±10% window), bias configuration options (INTVCC/VOUT-derived), and jumper-configurable current sensing - all critical for power system prototyping and qualification.

Technical Context

The DC952A demonstrates the LTC3810EG's constant-on-time valley current mode control architecture, enabling stable regulation down to ~12% duty cycle from 80V input. It leverages the controller's 0.5% reference, 25MHz error amplifier, and programmable soft-start to support fast load transients and precise output tracking.

Its flexible bias scheme uses input voltage during startup and switches to regulated output voltage in steady state, while optional external series transistor footprints allow extended input range operation. The board supports both resistor-based and R_SENSE-based current sensing through zero-ohm jumper reconfiguration.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC952A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom power supply validation, industrial 48V-to-12V conversion, and automotive high-input DC-DC design requiring stable component supply, full functional testing, and rapid prototyping support.

Supply support for DC952A 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 its legacy high-performance analog and power management portfolio with rigorous reliability standards and application-focused engineering support.

The DC952A belongs to Linear's demonstration circuit series designed specifically to accelerate adoption of its high-voltage DC-DC controllers - targeting telecom, industrial, and transportation applications where wide VIN, precision regulation, and robust transient performance are essential.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC952A evaluation board?

The DC952A evaluation board implements a complete 12V/6A synchronous step-down converter using the LTC3810EG controller. It is not a standalone IC but a ready-to-use hardware platform for validating the controller's performance across 13V–80V input, measuring efficiency, testing PGOOD behavior, and evaluating mode selection (continuous/pulse-skip/sync) - directly supporting power system development before custom PCB design.

Does the DC952A support external clock synchronization, and how is it configured?

Yes, the DC952A supports external clock synchronization via the MODE/SYNC pin on the LTC3810EG. When jumper JP1 is placed in the mid position (pins 2–3), the board accepts an external clock signal on TP9 (MODE/SYNC test point). This allows deterministic switching alignment with system clocks - critical for noise-sensitive or multi-rail synchronized power architectures using the DC952A.

How does the DC952A handle bias voltage generation for the LTC3810EG?

The DC952A implements a dual-source bias scheme: during startup, INTVCC is derived from the input voltage through an internal LDO; once regulation is established, bias shifts to the 12V output via an external path. This ensures reliable startup under low-VIN conditions and efficient steady-state operation - a key feature validated on the DC952A that matches the LTC3810EG's flexible bias architecture.

Can the DC952A be reconfigured for current-sense resistor operation?

Yes, the DC952A supports both sense-FET and discrete R_SENSE current sensing. By relocating zero-ohm jumpers (e.g., R15, R22, R23), users can route sensed current through external shunt resistors instead of relying on MOSFET R_DS(on). This configuration is documented in the DC952A schematic and enables accurate current measurement calibration - a capability confirmed in the board's design files and Quick Start Guide for the DC952A.

What is the role of the Power Good (PGOOD) signal on the DC952A?

The PGOOD signal on the DC952A is an open-drain output pulled up to V_LOGIC, asserting high when the 12V output remains within ±10% (10.8V–13.2V). It goes low if output voltage deviates beyond that window - providing system-level fault indication for downstream logic or microcontrollers. This behavior is implemented per the LTC3810EG's internal comparator and is verified on the DC952A during functional testing.