Renesas ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z

Overview

ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z from Intersil is a 6-lead µTDFN evaluation board for the ISL9103IRUWZ-T adjustable-output synchronous buck converter, delivering up to 500mA at 1.2V with 2.4MHz PWM switching and 20µA quiescent current in skip mode. It supports input voltages from 2.7V to 6.0V and enables rapid validation of low-voltage power rails in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z datasheet, ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z pinout, ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z application, or ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z equivalent, this board provides verified reference design implementation, thermal performance data, and layout-compliant component selection for battery-powered microprocessor core supplies.

Technical Context

The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z implements the ISL9103IRUWZ-T (1.2V fixed output variant) in a production-ready 1.6mm × 1.6mm µTDFN package, using peak-current-mode PWM control with internal P/N-channel MOSFETs and digital soft-start. It operates across -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature with integrated overcurrent, thermal shutdown, and output capacitor discharge functions.

This evaluation platform validates key behaviors including ultrasonic skip-mode operation (for ISL9103A variants), 100% duty-cycle low-dropout regulation (<300mV dropout at 500mA), and fast load transient response-critical for WCDMA handset baseband ICs and mobile phone application processors requiring stable 1.2V core voltage under dynamic load conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation, cellular handset power sequencing, and embedded microprocessor core supply validation requiring stable component supply and pre-validated layout compliance.

Supply support for ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z 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 Corporation (now part of Renesas Electronics) is a U.S.-based analog and power management IC designer known for high-efficiency DC/DC converters and precision analog solutions targeting portable and battery-operated systems.

The ISL9103 product line delivers ultra-small, high-frequency synchronous buck regulators optimized for low-voltage microprocessor core supplies in PDAs, mobile phones, and WCDMA handsets-prioritizing light-load efficiency, minimal footprint, and robust protection.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z evaluation board?

The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the ISL9103IRUWZ-T 1.2V, 500mA synchronous buck converter. It enables engineers to validate performance-including efficiency, thermal behavior, load transients, and enable sequencing-without designing a custom PCB. The board implements the exact µTDFN package, recommended 2.2µH inductor, and dual 10µF input/output capacitors per the ISL9103IRUWZ-T datasheet.

Does the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z support adjustable output voltages?

No. The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z is configured specifically for the ISL9103IRUWZ-T, which is the 1.2V fixed-output variant of the ISL9103 family. It does not include external feedback resistors or jumpers for voltage adjustment. For adjustable designs, users must refer to the ISL9103IRUAZ-T evaluation guidance or build a custom board using the FB pin configuration shown in Figure 21 of the FN6828.2 datasheet.

What input voltage range is validated on the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z board?

The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z board is validated for input voltages from 2.7V to 6.0V, matching the operational range of the ISL9103IRUWZ-T IC. This allows direct testing with common portable power sources: single-cell Li+, three-cell NiMH, or regulated 5V supplies. Input ripple and stability are confirmed using a 10µF X5R ceramic capacitor placed adjacent to the VIN pin per layout guidelines.

How does the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z demonstrate low-quiescent-current operation?

The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z demonstrates 20µA typical quiescent current (IQ) in skip mode by measuring supply current at VIN under no-load conditions while maintaining 1.2V output. This behavior is inherent to the ISL9103IRUWZ-T IC on the board and is verified across temperature and input voltage ranges. The board's enable circuitry also confirms <1µA shutdown current when EN is pulled low.

Can the ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z be used for thermal performance characterization?

Yes. The ISL9103IRUWEVAL1Z includes thermal test points and follows the recommended copper pour and ground plane layout per FN6828.2. Its 1.6mm × 1.6mm µTDFN package exhibits a θJA of 160°C/W, and the board enables direct junction temperature measurement during sustained 500mA loads. Thermal shutdown activation at ~130°C and hysteresis recovery at ~100°C are observable using standard thermocouple or IR methods.