Renesas ISL8023EVAL3Z

Overview

ISL8023EVAL3Z from Renesas Electronics is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate the performance of the ISL8023 3A synchronous buck regulator in point-of-load applications with input voltage range 2.7V–5.5V, default output voltage 1.8V, and fixed 1MHz switching frequency. It supports adjustable output (0.6V–5V), programmable frequency (500kHz–4MHz), and internal/external soft-start.

For engineers reviewing the ISL8023EVAL3Z datasheet, ISL8023EVAL3Z pinout, ISL8023EVAL3Z application, or ISL8023EVAL3Z equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of efficiency, transient response, and layout best practices for low-quiescent-current DC/DC conversion in space-constrained industrial and embedded systems.

Technical Context

The ISL8023EVAL3Z implements a complete reference design for the ISL8023 IC, featuring a 1.0µH shielded power inductor, dual 22µF X5R output capacitors, and precision feedback resistors (R1 = 200kΩ, R2 = 100kΩ) set for 1.8V output. It includes on-board test points (J1/J2), terminal posts (P4–P7), and toggle switches (SW1/SW2) for enable mode and PWM/PFM selection.

Board-level features include FS pin tied to VIN for default 1MHz operation, CSS capacitor pad for soft-start timing adjustment, and EPAD grounding via bottom-layer copper pour. The layout follows 3-layer PCB construction with dedicated PGND/SGND separation and thermal vias under U1's exposed pad to support thermal validation up to 3A continuous load.

Key Specifications

Availability

ISL8023EVAL3Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-of-load power design, DC/DC converter validation, and buck regulator performance benchmarking requiring stable component supply and documented reference implementation.

Supply support for ISL8023EVAL3Z 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.

The ISL8023EVAL3Z belongs to Renesas' high-efficiency DC/DC evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate adoption of low-quiescent-current buck regulators in space- and thermally-constrained embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ISL8023EVAL3Z?

The ISL8023EVAL3Z is a fully assembled evaluation board that demonstrates the electrical performance and layout implementation of the ISL8023 3A synchronous buck regulator. It provides immediate access to key signals-including VIN, VOUT, EN, SYNC, and PG-for oscilloscope probing and load testing without requiring custom PCB design. The ISL8023EVAL3Z enables engineers to validate efficiency, transient response, and thermal behavior under real-world conditions before committing to production design.

Does the ISL8023EVAL3Z support adjustable output voltage?

Yes, the ISL8023EVAL3Z supports output voltage adjustment from 0.6V to 5V using the feedback resistor divider (R1/R2). With R1 = 200kΩ and R2 = 100kΩ, it delivers the default 1.8V output. To change VOUT, replace R1 per Equation 1 in AN1759: VOUT = VFB × (1 + R1/R2), where VFB = 0.6V. The board includes solder pads and routing to accommodate alternative resistor values without modification to the core layout.

How is switching frequency configured on the ISL8023EVAL3Z?

Switching frequency on the ISL8023EVAL3Z is controlled via the FS pin. By default, FS is tied to VIN through R11 = 0Ω, setting fSW = 1MHz. To adjust frequency between 500kHz and 4MHz, populate R12 (e.g., 191kΩ for ~1MHz, 40kΩ for 4MHz) per Equation 2 in AN1759. Changing R12 also enables external compensation mode, requiring corresponding loop compensation component updates as specified in the ISL8023 datasheet.

What test equipment is required to operate the ISL8023EVAL3Z?

Per AN1759, recommended equipment includes a 0–10V/10A power supply (or 5V battery), electronic load capable of sinking up to 7A, 100MHz quad-trace oscilloscope, digital multimeters, and signal generator. Test points J1/J2 allow direct probe access to critical nodes (VIN, VOUT, PHASE, SYNC), while terminal posts P4–P7 simplify high-current connections for input and output. SW1/SW2 provide manual control of enable and operating mode.

Is thermal performance validated on the ISL8023EVAL3Z?

Yes, the ISL8023EVAL3Z incorporates thermal design elements aligned with the ISL8023's 3A rating: a 3mm×3mm QFN package with exposed EPAD, multiple thermal vias beneath U1, and 2oz copper on inner layers. The board layout (Figures 7–12 in AN1759) separates PGND/SGND planes and uses wide copper pours to dissipate heat. When operated within its 2.7V–5.5V input range and with proper airflow, the ISL8023EVAL3Z sustains full 3A output without exceeding safe junction temperatures.