Texas Instruments LMZ20502EVM

Overview

LMZ20502EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation board designed to accelerate prototyping of the LMZ20502 2A nano-module DC-DC converter. It supports input voltage range 2.7V–5.5V, delivers fixed 1.8V output, features PFM/PWM mode selection via jumper, includes network analyzer test points for loop response analysis, and is optimized for space-constrained power designs in industrial and embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the LMZ20502EVM datasheet, LMZ20502EVM pinout, LMZ20502EVM application, or LMZ20502EVM equivalent, this page provides verified board layout details, jumper configuration guidance, edge connector signal mapping, thermal and efficiency performance data, and TI's official evaluation module compliance and usage constraints.

Technical Context

The LMZ20502EVM implements the LMZ20502 synchronous buck nano-module in a fully assembled, tested PCB format with large solder pads and accessible test points. It integrates input/output filtering, remote enable (EN), voltage sense (VINS/VOUTS), and temperature monitoring (RTD) functionality directly on the board.

Two configurable jumpers support operational flexibility: EN jumper enables/disables the converter locally, while MODE jumper selects between auto-switching PFM/PWM or forced-PWM operation - critical for evaluating light-load efficiency and noise-sensitive applications.

Key Specifications

Availability

LMZ20502EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for rapid power stage validation, DC-DC efficiency benchmarking, and EMI pre-compliance testing requiring stable component supply and documented TI reference design traceability.

Supply support for LMZ20502EVM 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 with over 90 years of innovation in electronics design tools and reference solutions.

The LMZ20502EVM belongs to TI's SIMPLE SWITCHER® evaluation platform family, engineered to reduce time-to-test for integrated DC-DC modules by providing production-ready layouts, calibrated measurement points, and standardized jumper-based configuration.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the LMZ20502EVM?

The LMZ20502EVM is an evaluation board-not a semiconductor-designed exclusively to demonstrate and validate the LMZ20502 2A nano-module DC-DC converter. It provides a ready-to-use PCB with pre-mounted components, test points, and configurable jumpers to accelerate power architecture development without custom layout effort. The LMZ20502EVM enables immediate functional verification, efficiency measurement, and loop stability analysis per TI's SNVU181 User's Guide.

Does the LMZ20502EVM support adjustable output voltage?

No, the LMZ20502EVM is configured for fixed 1.8V output only, as confirmed in Section 2 of the SNVU181 User's Guide. The board uses the LMZ20502 module in its factory-trimmed configuration with internal feedback; no external resistor divider or voltage-setting components are included or supported on this evaluation board. To evaluate other output voltages, users must refer to the LMZ20502 datasheet and design a custom board or select a different TI EVM variant.

How do I configure the LMZ20502EVM for forced PWM mode?

To configure the LMZ20502EVM for forced constant-frequency PWM operation, place the MODE jumper in the "FPWM" position as shown in Figure 3 of the SNVU181 User's Guide. This disables automatic PFM-to-PWM transition and maintains fixed switching frequency across all load conditions - essential for noise-sensitive applications where frequency variation must be avoided. The EN jumper must remain installed in the "ON" position unless remote enable is used.

Can the LMZ20502EVM be used in a production system?

No - the LMZ20502EVM is strictly intended for R&D use under TI's Evaluation Module Terms and Conditions (Section 1.1). It is not qualified for production deployment: it lacks safety certifications, long-term reliability validation, or environmental qualification. TI explicitly prohibits assembly of the LMZ20502EVM as a subassembly in finished products. For production, designers must implement the LMZ20502 module on a custom PCB meeting their system's regulatory, thermal, and EMI requirements.

What thermal performance data is available for the LMZ20502EVM?

Figure 8 and Figure 9 in the SNVU181 User's Guide provide maximum output current vs. ambient temperature curves for the LMZ20502EVM, showing thermal derating from 2A at 40°C ambient down to ~1.2A at 140°C (θJA = 44°C/W, VIN = 5V). The board includes an RTD (100Ω) connected from the RTD pin to GNDS for bottom-side temperature monitoring - enabling empirical thermal validation during load transients or sustained operation.