Renesas ISL9108EVAL1Z

Overview

ISL9108EVAL1Z from Intersil is an evaluation board for the ISL9108 1.5A, 1.6MHz synchronous buck regulator in 2mm×3mm DFN-8 package. It supports input voltage range 2.7V–5.5V, delivers adjustable output down to 0.8V with <17µA quiescent current in Skip mode, and targets low-power portable applications including PDA and cellular phone core power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the ISL9108EVAL1Z datasheet, ISL9108EVAL1Z pinout, ISL9108EVAL1Z application, or ISL9108EVAL1Z equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, key specifications, supply chain support, manufacturer background, and targeted FAQs - all specific to the ISL9108EVAL1Z evaluation platform and its underlying ISL9108 IC.

Technical Context

The ISL9108EVAL1Z implements a fixed-frequency peak-current-mode PWM control architecture with selectable Skip (low-I_Q) or forced PWM operation. It integrates P-Channel and N-Channel MOSFETs with typical R_DS(on) of 0.16Ω and 0.15Ω respectively, enabling >95% efficiency at 1.5A load and 3.3V output.

It features internal digital soft-start (1.1ms), 100% duty-cycle low-dropout capability, logic-controlled shutdown (<1µA), and output capacitor discharge on disable. The board supports configurable feedback via external resistors and includes layout-optimized power loops per Intersil's recommended design guidelines.

Key Specifications

Availability

ISL9108EVAL1Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PDA power management, cellular phone core supply, and handheld DSP subsystem development requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping validation.

Supply support for ISL9108EVAL1Z 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) designs high-performance analog and power management ICs for portable, industrial, and communications systems.

The ISL9107/ISL9108 product line was engineered specifically for space-constrained, battery-powered devices requiring high-efficiency, low-quiescent-current DC/DC conversion with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the ISL9108EVAL1Z evaluation board?

The ISL9108EVAL1Z is a fully assembled and tested evaluation platform for the ISL9108 synchronous buck regulator. It allows engineers to validate performance-including efficiency, transient response, and mode switching-under real-world conditions using the exact ISL9108 IC in its native 2mm×3mm DFN package, with pre-optimized layout and component selection per Intersil's FN6612 datasheet.

Does the ISL9108EVAL1Z support both Skip and forced PWM modes?

Yes, the ISL9108EVAL1Z supports both operational modes via the MODE pin jumper. When configured for Skip mode (MODE tied to VIN), it achieves 17µA quiescent current at light load; when set to forced PWM (MODE grounded), it maintains constant 1.6MHz switching regardless of load - enabling direct comparison of efficiency vs. noise trade-offs during system-level testing of the ISL9108.

Can the ISL9108EVAL1Z be used to evaluate output voltages below 1.0V?

Yes, the ISL9108EVAL1Z supports output voltages as low as 0.8V by adjusting the R2/R3 feedback resistor network per Equation 2 in the FN6612 datasheet. The board includes test points and footprint options for custom resistor placement, and the ISL9108's 0.8V reference voltage and ±2% FB regulation accuracy ensure stable low-voltage core rail generation for modern microprocessors.

How does the ISL9108EVAL1Z handle thermal management during full-load operation?

The ISL9108EVAL1Z implements Intersil's recommended thermal layout: the ISL9108's exposed thermal pad is soldered directly to a large internal ground plane, and the PCB uses multiple vias to transfer heat to inner and bottom layers. This design sustains 1.5A continuous output at ambient temperatures up to +85°C while keeping junction temperature within the ISL9108's 125°C limit, as verified by thermal imaging in typical application tests.

Is the ISL9108EVAL1Z compatible with the ISL9107 IC?

No - the ISL9108EVAL1Z is designed exclusively for the ISL9108. While both ICs share identical pinouts and most electrical characteristics, the ISL9107 includes a Power-Good (PG) output and RSI reset input, which are NC pins on the ISL9108 and left unconnected on the ISL9108EVAL1Z board. Using an ISL9107 on this board would leave PG/RSI functions unutilized and may require schematic modification to avoid floating pins.