Texas Instruments LM3670MF-1.2EV

Overview

LM3670MF-1.2EV from Texas Instruments is an evaluation board for the LM3670 step-down DC-DC converter IC, configured to demonstrate 1.2 V fixed-output operation with 4.7 µH inductor, 4.7 µF input capacitor, and 10 µF output capacitor. It supports 2.5–5.5 V input, delivers up to 350 mA load current, and operates across –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature - used for rapid validation of buck regulator designs in portable power applications.

For engineers reviewing the LM3670MF-1.2EV datasheet, LM3670MF-1.2EV pinout, LM3670MF-1.2EV application, or LM3670MF-1.2EV equivalent, this page provides verified board-level specifications, layout insights, component BOM details, thermal and stability considerations for bench testing, and TI's official evaluation module compliance guidance.

Technical Context

The LM3670MF-1.2EV implements a synchronous buck topology using an internal PFET switch and NFET synchronous rectifier, with switching node (SW) rated for 750 mA peak current. It integrates automatic mode transition between PWM (low-noise) and PFM (low-current) operation to maintain efficiency across light-to-heavy loads.

Board-level design includes dedicated banana jacks for VIN (red), VOUT (yellow), and GND (black); input/output capacitors placed per TI-recommended layout; and feedback network components pre-populated for fixed 1.2 V output - eliminating external resistor selection while preserving access to FB and EN pins for system integration verification.

Key Specifications

Availability

LM3670MF-1.2EV is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable electronics development, battery-powered sensor node prototyping, and low-voltage microcontroller power supply validation requiring stable component supply and TI-validated reference design fidelity.

Supply support for LM3670MF-1.2EV 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The LM3670 product line is designed as ultra-small, high-efficiency synchronous buck converters for space-constrained portable devices - targeting single-cell Li-ion/Li-polymer and multi-cell alkaline/NiMH battery-powered systems needing regulated 1.2 V to 3.3 V rails.

FAQ

What is the purpose of the LM3670MF-1.2EV evaluation board?

The LM3670MF-1.2EV evaluation board is a fully assembled, tested platform that demonstrates the LM3670 step-down DC-DC converter operating at a fixed 1.2 V output. It enables engineers to verify performance metrics - including efficiency, transient response, and thermal behavior - under real-world conditions without designing a custom PCB. The LM3670MF-1.2EV includes all critical passive components, test points, and banana jacks for quick bench setup and measurement.

Does the LM3670MF-1.2EV support adjustable output voltage?

No - the LM3670MF-1.2EV is specifically configured for fixed 1.2 V output using the internal feedback network of the LM3670 IC. Unlike adjustable variants (e.g., LM3670MF-ADJ), it does not require external R1/R2 resistors. To evaluate adjustable operation, users must select a different board variant such as LM3670MF-ADJEV or rework the feedback path - which is not recommended without consulting TI's AN-1348 design guidelines for the LM3670MF-1.2EV.

What are the key passive components used on the LM3670MF-1.2EV board?

The LM3670MF-1.2EV uses a 4.7 µH Coilcraft DO1608C-472 inductor (1.5 A saturation current), 4.7 µF Taiyo Yuden LMK316BJ475ML input capacitor, and 10 µF TDK 3216X5R0J106M output capacitor. These values are optimized per TI's application notes to ensure stability, low ripple, and efficient operation across the full 0–350 mA load range. All components are surface-mount, 0805/1206 case sizes, and placed per TI's recommended layout for minimal EMI and thermal resistance.

Can the LM3670MF-1.2EV be used in production systems?

No - the LM3670MF-1.2EV is an evaluation module intended solely for R&D, feasibility analysis, and design validation. TI explicitly prohibits its use as a subassembly in finished products per Standard Terms and Conditions for Evaluation Modules. For production, designers must implement the LM3670 IC (e.g., LM3670MF-1.2) on their own PCB using TI's layout recommendations, thermal guidelines, and qualification-tested components - not the LM3670MF-1.2EV board itself.

How should the enable (EN) pin be handled when using the LM3670MF-1.2EV?

On the LM3670MF-1.2EV, the EN pin is accessible via test point or solder pad and must not be asserted high until the input voltage reaches at least 2.7 V - the minimum ensured operating voltage. Driving EN above VIN or applying voltage before VIN stabilization risks latch-up or damage. TI recommends using a simple RC delay or supervisor IC to coordinate EN activation with VIN ramp-up during system power-on sequencing for reliable operation of the LM3670MF-1.2EV.