Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated LT3046EVK#DFN

Overview

LT3046EVK#DFN from Analog Devices is an evaluation board designed to characterize the LT3046 - a 20V, 200mA ultra-low-noise (0.8µV_RMS), ultra-high-PSRR (79dB at 1MHz) LDO linear regulator in a 12-lead 3mm × 3mm DFN package with exposed pad. It supports input voltages from 3.8V to 20V, delivers a resistor-programmed 3.32V output, and includes BNC connectors for precision noise and PSRR measurement in high-fidelity power-supply validation.

For engineers reviewing the LT3046EVK#DFN datasheet, LT3046EVK#DFN pinout, LT3046EVK#DFN application, or LT3046EVK#DFN equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of ultra-low-noise regulation, programmable current limiting, power-good signaling, and thermal performance under real-world load and input ripple conditions - especially critical for post-regulation of switching supplies in RF, instrumentation, and precision analog systems.

Technical Context

The LT3046EVK#DFN implements a dedicated PCB layout optimized for ultra-high PSRR integrity: VIN and GND input traces are vertically stacked on adjacent layers to cancel electromagnetic coupling, preventing up to 30dB degradation at 1MHz. This layout technique is essential because the LT3046's bandwidth (~750kHz) operates near typical ceramic capacitor self-resonance (~1.6MHz), making parasitic inductance critically impactful.

It integrates Kelvin-sense routing for the OUTS and SET pins directly to the C2 output capacitor terminals using split-pad construction, minimizing ESL/ESR effects outside the feedback loop. The board also supports full functional evaluation of programmable UVLO (via R5/R6), current limit (via R4), and PG pull-up selection (JP2: VEXT/VIN/VOUT), all aligned with the LT3046ATC+ IC's pinout and electrical behavior.

Key Specifications

Availability

LT3046EVK#DFN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF transceiver power validation, precision ADC/DAC reference rail generation, low-phase-noise oscillator biasing, and medical imaging signal-chain power conditioning requiring stable component supply and repeatable lab characterization.

Supply support for LT3046EVK#DFN 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

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Wilmington, MA, with deep expertise in precision power, RF, and sensor signal chains.

The LT3046EVK#DFN belongs to Analog Devices' Linear Regulator Evaluation Kit product line, engineered specifically to demonstrate and validate the ultra-low-noise, ultra-high-PSRR capabilities of the LT3046 family in demanding analog and RF power applications.

FAQ

What is the primary purpose of the LT3046EVK#DFN?

The LT3046EVK#DFN is a dedicated evaluation platform for the LT3046ATC+ ultra-low-noise LDO. It enables engineers to measure output noise (0.8µV_RMS), PSRR (79dB @ 1MHz), transient response, and thermal performance under controlled conditions - including programmable current limit, power-good threshold, and UVLO. Its BNC interfaces and optimized layout ensure measurement fidelity not achievable with generic test setups.

Does the LT3046EVK#DFN support both DFN and WLCSP packages of the LT3046?

No - the LT3046EVK#DFN is exclusively configured for the 12-lead 3mm × 3mm DFN package (LT3046ATC+). A separate board, LT3046EVK#WLP, evaluates the 11-ball WLCSP variant (LT3046ANQ+). The two boards differ in layout, thermal pad connection, and mechanical mounting; they are not interchangeable and require distinct test setups and component placement.

How does the LT3046EVK#DFN achieve accurate PSRR measurement despite high-frequency coupling risks?

The LT3046EVK#DFN uses a layered PCB design where the VIN input trace and its return GND path are precisely overlaid on adjacent layers (Figures 3–4), causing opposing electromagnetic fields that cancel at high frequencies. This eliminates up to 30dB of PSRR degradation at 1MHz - a critical feature absent in standard layouts - ensuring measured PSRR reflects the LT3046's true capability rather than board parasitics.

Can the LT3046EVK#DFN be used to evaluate output noise below 10Hz?

Yes - the LT3046EVK#DFN's BNC connectors (J1, J2) support direct 50Ω connection to low-noise spectrum analyzers or audio precision analyzers. With proper grounding, shielding, and external filtering, it enables validated measurement of integrated noise from 10Hz to 100kHz per the LT3046 datasheet (0.8µV_RMS over 10Hz–100kHz), making it suitable for ultra-low-frequency analog front-end validation.

What jumper settings are required to enable basic operation of the LT3046EVK#DFN?

For default operation: JP1 must be shunted (pins 1–2) to enable the LT3046ATC+, and JP2 must be set to pins 3–4 to configure PG pull-up to an external voltage (VEXT). R1 = 33.2kΩ sets the 3.32V output; R4 = 0Ω enables current monitoring at the ILIM pin; and R5/R6 define UVLO. All jumpers and resistors are documented in the Bill of Materials and Quick Start section of the User Guide Rev. A.