NXP Semiconductors KIT34712EPEVBE

Overview

KIT34712EPEVBE from Freescale Semiconductor Inc is an evaluation board for the MC34712 fully integrated 3.0 A, 1.0 MHz synchronous buck regulator IC, designed for point-of-load DC-DC conversion in industrial and embedded power systems with input voltage up to 28 V and adjustable output from 0.6 V to 5.5 V.

For engineers reviewing the KIT34712EPEVBE datasheet, KIT34712EPEVBE pinout, KIT34712EPEVBE application, or KIT34712EPEVBE equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of transient response, efficiency mapping, thermal performance, and loop stability under real-world load conditions with configurable feedback and enable control.

Technical Context

The KIT34712EPEVBE implements the MC34712 controller in a pre-layout, tested PCB configuration with all critical passive components (inductor, input/output capacitors, feedback resistors) mounted and optimized per Freescale's reference design AN34712. It supports forced PWM and PFM modes, includes overcurrent and thermal shutdown protection, and features a dedicated SYNC pin for external clock synchronization.

Board-level test points provide direct access to COMP, FB, EN, and SW nodes for oscilloscope probing and loop analysis. The layout follows strict high-current path routing and ground plane partitioning guidelines to minimize noise coupling and ensure accurate measurement of switching waveforms and ripple.

Key Specifications

Availability

KIT34712EPEVBE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, motor drive auxiliary supplies, and FPGA/ASIC core voltage regulation requiring stable component supply and fast evaluation turnaround.

Supply support for KIT34712EPEVBE 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

Freescale Semiconductor Inc was a global semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, analog, and power management solutions before its acquisition by NXP Semiconductors in 2015.

The KIT34712EPEVBE belongs to Freescale's MC347xx family of high-efficiency DC-DC regulators, engineered specifically for ruggedized industrial and automotive-grade point-of-load applications demanding tight regulation and robust fault handling.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the KIT34712EPEVBE evaluation board?

The KIT34712EPEVBE evaluation board is designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the performance of the MC34712 3.0 A, 1.0 MHz synchronous buck regulator IC. It provides a ready-to-use platform for measuring efficiency, transient response, thermal behavior, and stability without requiring custom PCB development. Engineers use the KIT34712EPEVBE to accelerate power architecture prototyping and verify design margins before final system integration.

Does the KIT34712EPEVBE support external clock synchronization?

Yes, the KIT34712EPEVBE exposes the SYNC pin of the MC34712 IC, enabling external clock synchronization up to 1.0 MHz. This allows precise timing alignment with other switching regulators in multi-rail systems to reduce beat-frequency noise and simplify EMI filtering. The KIT34712EPEVBE includes appropriate termination and routing to maintain signal integrity on the SYNC line as specified in Freescale's AN34712 application note.

Can the output voltage of the KIT34712EPEVBE be adjusted, and how?

Yes, the output voltage of the KIT34712EPEVBE is adjustable from 0.6 V to 5.5 V using the onboard feedback resistor divider. Users can replace R1 and R2 with custom values per the MC34712 transfer function VOUT = 0.6 V × (1 + R1/R2). Test points and solder jumpers on the KIT34712EPEVBE facilitate safe reconfiguration without damaging the board or IC.

What protection features are implemented on the KIT34712EPEVBE?

The KIT34712EPEVBE implements all protection features inherent to the MC34712 IC: cycle-by-cycle overcurrent detection, thermal shutdown at ~150 °C junction temperature, and input undervoltage lockout below 4.5 V. These functions are hardware-based and active during operation - no firmware or configuration is required. The KIT34712EPEVBE layout preserves the sensing paths and thermal coupling needed for reliable activation of each protection mechanism.

Is the KIT34712EPEVBE RoHS compliant?

Yes, the KIT34712EPEVBE is RoHS compliant, as confirmed in Freescale's official declaration dated April 6, 2007. All components mounted on the board, including the MC34712 IC, passives, and PCB finish, meet EU Directive 2002/95/EC requirements for restricted hazardous substances. Documentation for KIT34712EPEVBE compliance is archived under Freescale document ID C MO0046818.