Texas Instruments LM76002EVM-500K

Overview

LM76002EVM-500K from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to validate the LM76002 synchronous buck regulator operating at a fixed 500 kHz switching frequency, delivering up to 2.5 A at 3.3 V output from a 3.5–60 V input range. It integrates the LM76002RNPR in WQFN-30 package, supports precision enable, power-good flag, external frequency synchronization, and features configurable feedback and RT resistor networks for voltage/frequency tuning.

For engineers reviewing the LM76002EVM-500K datasheet, LM76002EVM-500K setup, LM76002EVM-500K schematic, or LM76002EVM-500K application curves, this EVM provides validated thermal layout, test point access to VIN, VOUT, EN, PG, SYNC, and SW nodes, and preconfigured 500 kHz operation with 3.3 V output - enabling rapid DC/DC converter performance characterization under real load, line, and thermal conditions.

Technical Context

The LM76002EVM-500K implements a complete, ready-to-use hardware platform for the LM76002 3.5–60 V input, 2.5 A synchronous step-down regulator. Its board-level design includes a 6.8 µH shielded inductor (XAL6060-682MEB), optimized ceramic input/output capacitance (4.7 µF/47 µF), boot capacitor (0.47 µF), and precision feedback divider (RFBT = 100 kΩ, RFBB1 = 43.2 kΩ, RFBB2 = 59.0 kΩ) setting VOUT = 3.3 V.

It supports both Auto (PFM/PWM hybrid) and forced PWM modes, features an exposed thermal pad layout with 4-layer PCB and thermal vias, and provides edge connectors (J1/J2) and banana jacks (JVIN1/JVOUT1/JGND1) for flexible bench integration. The 500 kHz default frequency is set by an 80.6 kΩ RT resistor, aligning with the LM76002's 300 kHz–2.2 MHz adjustable range.

Key Specifications

Availability

LM76002EVM-500K is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC/DC converter reference design verification, and industrial embedded power subsystem prototyping requiring stable component supply and documented thermal/measurement performance.

Supply support for LM76002EVM-500K 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 specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in power management ICs and evaluation platforms for system-level validation.

The LM7600xEVM series belongs to TI's SIMPLE SWITCHER® evaluation module family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of high-voltage, high-efficiency buck regulators in industrial, automotive, and telecom power applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the LM76002EVM-500K?

The LM76002EVM-500K is an evaluation module that enables engineers to characterize the electrical performance, thermal behavior, and control-loop stability of the LM76002 synchronous buck regulator. It is preconfigured for 3.3 V output at 500 kHz and includes all necessary passive components, test points, and interconnect options - allowing immediate bench testing without custom PCB development. The LM76002EVM-500K itself is not a production component but a validated hardware reference for the LM76002RNPR IC.

Does the LM76002EVM-500K support adjustable output voltage?

Yes, the LM76002EVM-500K supports adjustable output voltage via replacement of the feedback resistor divider network (RFBT, RFBB1, RFBB2). The default configuration delivers 3.3 V, but per the LM76002 datasheet, the output can be reconfigured from 1 V up to 95% of VIN by selecting appropriate resistor values. The EVM's schematic and user guide provide exact calculation methods and layout guidelines for safe reconfiguration of the LM76002EVM-500K.

Can the LM76002EVM-500K operate in forced PWM mode?

Yes, the LM76002EVM-500K supports forced PWM mode through the SYNC pin. When a logic-high signal (≥1.2 V) is applied to the SYNC test point, the LM76002RNPR enters forced PWM operation - eliminating pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) discontinuities and ensuring constant switching frequency under light loads. This capability is explicitly verified in the LM76002EVM-500K application curves (Figures 15–16 and 17–18), which compare efficiency and regulation in both Auto and FPWM modes.

What are the thermal design features of the LM76002EVM-500K?

The LM76002EVM-500K uses a 4-layer PCB with 2-oz copper on top/bottom layers and 1-oz mid-layers, plus an array of thermal vias beneath the LM76002RNPR's exposed thermal pad to connect all layers. Thermal imaging (Figures 19–20) confirms stable operation at 2.5 A load with junction temperatures remaining within safe limits at 12 V and 24 V input. This validated thermal architecture allows users to replicate the LM76002EVM-500K layout for production-grade thermal reliability.

Is the LM76002EVM-500K FCC-compliant for emissions testing?

The LM76002EVM-500K is intended for R&D use only and is not FCC-certified as a finished product. Per TI's standard terms, it may generate RF emissions and must be operated in a shielded lab environment or under experimental authorization if used for compliance pre-scan. The user guide states it complies with FCC Part 15 Class A limits when measured per standard procedures - but formal certification requires integration into a fully compliant end-system. Users must verify regulatory requirements before deploying the LM76002EVM-500K in any emission-sensitive context.