Analog Devices Inc. SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ

Overview

SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ from Analog Devices is a Signal Chain Power (SCP) series evaluation board built around the LT8618EDDB#PBF synchronous buck regulator, configured in an inverting topology to convert +5V–60V input to programmable negative output voltages from –0.8V to –48V, delivering up to 100mA with >90% efficiency at mid-load for low-power signal chain biasing.

For engineers reviewing the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ datasheet, SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ pinout, SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ application, or SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of positive-to-negative DC/DC conversion in precision analog systems-especially when integrated with SCP-INPUT-EVALZ, SCP-OUTPUT-EVALZ, and SCP Configurator software for topology selection and system-level power chain assembly.

Technical Context

The SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ implements a fixed-frequency, current-mode controlled inverting buck converter using the LT8618 IC, which integrates internal high- and low-side MOSFETs, a 1.05V EN/UV threshold with 50mV hysteresis, and resistor-programmable switching frequency (default 2.0MHz, range 200kHz–2.2MHz).

Output voltage is set via external resistive divider (R4/R5) per V_OUT = 0.778V × (1 + R4/R5), supporting precise negative rail generation; the board excludes VIOC implementation due to its inverting configuration and requires companion SCP hardware (e.g., SCP-1X2BKOUT-EVALZ) for full signal chain interoperability.

Key Specifications

Availability

SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision analog data acquisition, portable instrumentation, and low-power industrial sensor interface designs requiring stable component supply and fast evaluation of negative rail generation.

Supply support for SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ 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 Norwood, MA, serving precision instrumentation, communications, and industrial markets.

The Signal Chain Power (SCP) series-including SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ-is designed specifically to accelerate development of low-noise, low-power analog signal chains by enabling modular, plug-and-play DC/DC power subsystems with standardized interconnects and software-guided configuration.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ evaluation board?

The SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ evaluation board is a ready-to-use demonstration platform that implements the LT8618EDDB#PBF IC in an inverting buck configuration to generate precisely regulated negative output voltages from a positive input source. It is not a standalone IC but a fully assembled, tested PCB with input/output connectors, programming resistors, and layout optimized for low-noise signal chain biasing. Engineers use SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ to validate negative rail performance before integrating into final systems.

Can the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ be used without other SCP boards?

No-SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ requires companion SCP hardware to operate: SCP-INPUT-EVALZ provides regulated input power and sequencing control, while SCP-OUTPUT-EVALZ enables accurate output measurement and dynamic loading. The board lacks onboard input filtering, input voltage regulation, or output load capability. Its design assumes integration into the modular SCP ecosystem, and standalone operation is neither supported nor validated per the demo manual.

How is the output voltage programmed on the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ?

Output voltage on SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ is set using the external resistor divider formed by R4 and R5, following the formula V_OUT = 0.778V × (1 + R4/R5). Table 2 in the demo manual provides pre-calculated values for common outputs from –0.8V to –48V. Users replace R4 and R5 with the specified thick-film 0805 resistors; no firmware or software adjustment is required. Default factory setting yields –5V.

Does the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ support VIOC (Voltage Input-to-Output Control)?

No-the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ does not support VIOC functionality. As stated in the demo manual, "VIOC cannot be implemented with the board in the inverting buck configuration." The VIOC pin (U1 Pin 4) is routed to header P1 but remains unpopulated and non-functional in this topology. For VIOC-enabled applications, a different LT8618 configuration (e.g., buck or boost) or alternate regulator must be used.

What software is required to configure and evaluate the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ?

The SCP Configurator companion software is required to properly evaluate SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ. This tool assists engineers in selecting compatible SCP boards, defining power chain topology, verifying inter-board connectivity, and generating configuration guidance. It does not communicate directly with the SCP-LT8618-IEVALZ board (which has no MCU or USB interface), but serves as a system-level design aid for assembling valid SCP-based power solutions.