Renesas ISL6527EVAL2

Overview

ISL6527EVAL2 from Renesas Electronics is a ready-to-use evaluation board for the ISL6527ACR 600kHz synchronous buck PWM controller in 16-lead MLFP package, configured for 2.5V/5A output with external reference support, Kelvin probe points (TP1–TP3), and dual-mode current sourcing/sinking capability. It enables immediate validation of high-efficiency low-voltage DC-DC regulation in embedded power systems.

For engineers reviewing the ISL6527EVAL2 datasheet, ISL6527EVAL2 pinout, ISL6527EVAL2 application, or ISL6527EVAL2 equivalent, this board delivers verified startup/shutdown timing, transient response data at 600kHz, droop implementation guidance, and direct access to PHASE, CPVOUT, and REF_IN nodes for loop stability analysis and reference tracking validation.

Technical Context

The ISL6527EVAL2 implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode synchronous buck topology using the ISL6527ACR controller, which integrates dual MOSFET drivers, a high-accuracy error amplifier, and an external reference input (REF_IN) enabling output voltage tracking or amplification. Its compensation network uses Type III design with RFB, C10, C11, and C12 per AN1021 Figure 8.

Input voltage range is 3.3V–5V; output is factory-configured to 2.5V at up to 5A, adjustable via 25-turn potentiometer (RPOT1) from 0.75V to 3.0V. The board supports both sourcing and sinking operation, with dedicated terminals (J1–J4) and floating-load capability for bidirectional load testing.

Key Specifications

Availability

ISL6527EVAL2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for embedded DC-DC converter development, power supply validation, and synchronous buck topology evaluation requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping, and production-ready reference design fidelity.

Supply support for ISL6527EVAL2 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

Renesas Electronics is a global semiconductor leader delivering microcontrollers, analog, power, and SoC solutions for automotive, industrial, and enterprise applications, with deep expertise in high-efficiency power management ICs.

The ISL6527EVAL2 belongs to Renesas' legacy Intersil PWM controller evaluation platform, designed specifically to accelerate adoption of high-performance synchronous buck regulators for low-voltage, high-current embedded power rails.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ISL6527EVAL2 evaluation board?

The ISL6527EVAL2 evaluation board is a fully assembled, ready-to-use hardware platform for validating the ISL6527ACR 600kHz synchronous buck PWM controller. It provides immediate operational verification of output regulation, transient response, startup/shutdown behavior, and external reference tracking without modification. The board is preconfigured for 2.5V/5A output and includes test points for critical signals including REF_IN, CPVOUT, and CT1 - all essential for characterizing the ISL6527EVAL2 in real-world power system designs.

Does the ISL6527EVAL2 support both current sourcing and sinking operation?

Yes, the ISL6527EVAL2 explicitly supports bidirectional current operation as confirmed in AN1021. For sourcing, connect load between VOUT (J3) and GND (J4); for sinking, connect load between 3.3V (J1) and VOUT (J3) with a floating return - enabling full characterization of the ISL6527ACR's ability to regulate while sinking current. This capability is integral to the ISL6527EVAL2's design and validated in Figures 3 and 7 of the application note.

What controller IC is mounted on the ISL6527EVAL2 board?

The ISL6527EVAL2 board is populated with the ISL6527ACR - a 600kHz, 16-lead MLFP-packaged synchronous buck PWM controller featuring external reference input (REF_IN), overcurrent protection, and dual MOSFET drivers. This specific variant is listed in Table 1 and Table 2 of AN1021, confirming its use on the ISL6527EVAL2 and distinguishing it from SOIC-based ISL6527CB/ACB versions used on other evaluation boards.

Can the output voltage of the ISL6527EVAL2 be adjusted, and if so, how?

Yes, the ISL6527EVAL2 output voltage is adjustable from 0.75V to 3.0V using the onboard 25-turn potentiometer RPOT1, leveraging the ISL6527ACR's external reference architecture. Unlike the fixed-output ISL6526EVAL2, the ISL6527EVAL2 uses R7, R8, and RPOT1 to form a programmable divider network feeding the REF_IN pin - enabling precise tuning and tracking applications as described in AN1021 Section "ISL6527 Input Reference" and Figure 4.

What test points are provided on the ISL6527EVAL2 and what signals do they access?

The ISL6527EVAL2 provides three Kelvin test points: TP1 connects to CT1 (current sense node), TP2 accesses REF_IN (external reference input) and OCSET/SD (overcurrent/shutdown control), and TP3 connects to CPVOUT (charge pump output voltage). These points enable accurate, low-noise probing of critical control-loop signals without disturbing regulation - a key feature confirmed in AN1021 Section "Quick Start Evaluation" and schematic annotation.