Texas Instruments LM5020EVAL

Overview

LM5020EVAL from Texas Instruments is a fully assembled, two-layer evaluation board implementing a non-isolated flyback DC-DC converter using the LM5020 PWM controller, delivering 3.3 V at up to 4.5 A from a 30–75 V input. It features 85% measured efficiency at 1.5 A, <1.5% load regulation, and 0.1% line regulation, designed for rapid validation of flyback topologies in industrial power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the LM5020EVAL datasheet, LM5020EVAL pinout, LM5020EVAL application, or LM5020EVAL equivalent, this board enables hands-on characterization of input transient response, load step behavior, ripple performance, and thermal operation under convection cooling - critical for evaluating high-voltage-input, low-output-voltage flyback designs.

Technical Context

The LM5020EVAL implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode controlled non-isolated flyback topology with an EFD20 transformer (Coilcraft B0695-A or Pulse PA0751), Si7898DP N-channel MOSFET switch, and MBRD835L Schottky output rectifier. Control loop compensation is implemented via external RC networks on COMP and RT pins.

It integrates soft-start, UVLO (with line UVLO threshold set by R2/R3), cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and internal VCC regulation - all configured to match the LM5020's VSSOP-10 pinout and functional timing. The board operates continuously at rated load below 40°C ambient using natural convection only.

Key Specifications

Availability

LM5020EVAL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply validation, embedded system auxiliary rail development, and high-voltage DC-DC reference design requiring stable component supply, documented thermal performance, and production-ready layout practices.

Supply support for LM5020EVAL 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, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies since 1930.

The LM5020EVAL belongs to TI's Power Management Evaluation Platform family, engineered to accelerate adoption of their high-voltage PWM controllers in non-isolated flyback applications for industrial, telecom, and automotive subsystems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the LM5020EVAL?

The LM5020EVAL is a ready-to-use evaluation board that implements a non-isolated flyback DC-DC converter using the LM5020 PWM controller. Its purpose is to enable engineers to validate performance metrics-including efficiency, regulation, transient response, and thermal behavior-of a 3.3 V / 4.5 A output stage powered from 30–75 V DC. The LM5020EVAL provides test points, jumpers, and documented waveforms to support rapid prototyping and design verification without custom PCB development.

Does the LM5020EVAL support isolated output configurations?

No, the LM5020EVAL implements a non-isolated flyback topology, meaning the input and output share a common ground reference. While the underlying LM5020 controller can be used in isolated designs with appropriate transformer coupling and secondary-side sensing, the LM5020EVAL board itself lacks isolation barriers, optocoupler feedback, or reinforced insulation - and is explicitly documented as non-isolated in its user guide (SNVA082B).

What are the key components used on the LM5020EVAL board?

The LM5020EVAL integrates the LM5020 PWM controller in VSSOP-10, Si7898DP 150 V N-channel MOSFET, MBRD835L 8 A / 35 V Schottky rectifier, Coilcraft B0695-A or Pulse PA0751 EFD20 flyback transformer, and TDK/KEMET passive components including X7R/X7S ceramics and aluminum polymer capacitors. All bill-of-materials details are listed in Table 1 of AN-1314.

Can the LM5020EVAL operate without forced airflow?

Yes - the LM5020EVAL is rated for continuous operation at full 4.5 A load with ambient temperature below 40°C using only natural convection cooling. Its 2-layer, 2 oz copper FR4 construction, selective soldermask removal, and thermal-aware layout (including MOSFET and rectifier placement) enable this capability, as confirmed in Section 1 of the user guide.

Is the LM5020EVAL compatible with other LM5020 variants or packages?

The LM5020EVAL is specifically designed for the LM5020MM (VSSOP-10) variant and uses its exact pinout and external component values. It is not configured for the LM5020MTC (TSSOP-16) or other package variants. Any substitution would require redesigning compensation, gate drive, and current-sense networks - the LM5020EVAL does not support drop-in replacement of alternate LM5020 packages.