Renesas ISL6236EVAL2

Overview

ISL6236EVAL2 from Intersil is a fully assembled, tested evaluation board for the ISL6236 quad-output main power supply controller IC used in notebook computers. It implements dual synchronous buck SMPS (5V/3.3V and 1.5V/1.05V), a 3.3V/5V linear regulator with switchover, and supports adjustable output ranges (0.7–5.5V for SMPS1, 0–2.5V for SMPS2, 0.7–4.5V for LDO). It enables rapid validation of high-efficiency power sequencing in battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the ISL6236EVAL2 datasheet, ISL6236EVAL2 pinout, ISL6236EVAL2 application, or ISL6236EVAL2 equivalent, this board provides immediate hardware access to the ISL6236's constant-on-time PWM control, ultrasonic skip mode (≥25kHz), digital soft-start (1.7ms), independent POK outputs, and r_DS(ON) current sensing-critical for DDR1/2/3, graphics card, and multi-rail notebook power design.

Technical Context

The ISL6236EVAL2 implements the ISL6236's dual-channel constant-on-time architecture with independent enable, feedback, and power-good signaling for each SMPS rail. It validates the IC's 100ns load-step response, selectable switching frequencies (200/300/400/500 kHz), and three operating modes: fixed-frequency PWM, pulse-skipping, and ultrasonic skip (25–37 kHz).

This board integrates all necessary passive components-including input/output capacitors, bootstrap capacitors, inductors, and voltage-divider networks-for both SMPS channels and the LDO, while exposing key test points (FB1, REFIN2, LDOREFIN, SKIP, TON) and jumpers for configuration of output voltages, sequencing order, and mode selection.

Key Specifications

Availability

ISL6236EVAL2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook power validation, DDR memory supply qualification, and multi-rail embedded system prototyping requiring stable component supply and full functional verification.

Supply support for ISL6236EVAL2 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

Intersil (now part of Renesas Electronics) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog and power management ICs for computing, communications, and industrial applications.

The ISL6236 product line was designed specifically for notebook and sub-notebook main power systems, delivering high-efficiency quad-rail regulation with integrated sequencing, fault protection, and ultra-low quiescent power (5mW) for extended battery life.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ISL6236EVAL2 evaluation board?

The ISL6236EVAL2 evaluation board is a fully populated platform for validating the ISL6236 quad-output main power supply controller IC. It enables engineers to evaluate dual synchronous buck regulators (SMPS1/SMPS2), an adjustable LDO, power sequencing, POK monitoring, and dynamic mode selection (PWM/skip/ultrasonic) under real-world load and input conditions without custom PCB design.

Does the ISL6236EVAL2 support adjustable output voltages for both SMPS channels?

Yes, the ISL6236EVAL2 supports full adjustment of both SMPS outputs: SMPS1 from 0.7V to 5.5V (via FB1 resistive divider) and SMPS2 from 0V to 2.5V (via REFIN2 voltage setting). The board includes trimmer potentiometers and jumper options to configure these ranges, matching the ISL6236's ±1.5% output accuracy specification across temperature.

How does the ISL6236EVAL2 implement power-good signaling and sequencing control?

The ISL6236EVAL2 exposes the ISL6236's independent POK1 and POK2 open-drain outputs, each with programmable hysteresis and propagation delay (10µs). Sequencing is controlled via separate EN1 and EN2 inputs, allowing staggered startup-e.g., enabling SMPS2 only after SMPS1 reaches regulation by connecting EN2 to POK1-validated directly on the board with test points and header pins.

Can the ISL6236EVAL2 be used to verify ultrasonic skip mode operation?

Yes, the ISL6236EVAL2 supports ultrasonic skip mode (25–37 kHz) via the SKIP pin. By floating SKIP or connecting it to the onboard REF (2.0V) signal, the board demonstrates noise-free operation above audible range-critical for audio-sensitive notebook designs. Oscilloscope test points on PHASE1/PHASE2 and OUT1/OUT2 allow direct measurement of frequency stability and ripple suppression.

What input voltage range and load capability does the ISL6236EVAL2 support for functional testing?

The ISL6236EVAL2 accepts 5.5V to 25V DC input and supports full-load testing per ISL6236 specifications: up to 5A on each SMPS channel and 200mA on the LDO during switchover. Input and output test points, thermal pads, and heatsink-mounting provisions allow thermal validation and efficiency measurement across the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +100°C).