Vishay Siliconix SIC469EVB-E

Overview

SIC469EVB-E from Vishay Siliconix is an evaluation board designed to demonstrate and validate the SiC469 2 A synchronous buck DC/DC converter in the MLP55-27L package. It supports 4.5 V to 60 V input, delivers adjustable output down to 0.8 V, operates up to 2 MHz, and enables rapid prototyping for industrial power supplies and embedded systems requiring high efficiency and fast transient response.

For engineers reviewing the SIC469EVB-E datasheet, SIC469EVB-E pinout, SIC469EVB-E application, or SIC469EVB-E equivalent, this board provides verified reference design implementation, real-world thermal performance data, configurable soft-start and current-limit settings, and direct access to all control signals (EN, MODE, ILIMIT, fSW, SS) for system-level validation under varying load and input conditions.

Technical Context

The SIC469EVB-E implements the SiC469 microBUCK® regulator in voltage-mode constant-on-time (COT) architecture with adaptive zero-current detection. It integrates a 2 A power stage with internal high-side and low-side n-channel MOSFETs, supports pre-bias start-up, and enables diode emulation mode for light-load efficiency optimization.

Board-level features include full protection monitoring (OCP, OVP, UVP, OTP), open-drain PGOOD signaling, user-adjustable switching frequency (100 kHz–2 MHz via R_fSW), and programmable soft-start (via C_SS). All critical bias rails (VCIN, VDRV, VDD) and feedback paths (VFB, VOUT) are accessible for measurement and tuning.

Key Specifications

Availability

SIC469EVB-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, telecom power supplies, and robotics development requiring stable component supply, quick-turn evaluation, and production-ready reference design validation.

Supply support for SIC469EVB-E 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

Vishay Siliconix is a global leader in discrete semiconductors and passive components, specializing in high-efficiency power management solutions for demanding industrial, automotive, and computing applications.

The SiC46x family-including the SiC469 implemented on SIC469EVB-E-is engineered for wide-input, high-density DC/DC conversion in space-constrained systems where fast transient response, light-load efficiency, and robust fault protection are critical.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the SIC469EVB-E evaluation board?

The SIC469EVB-E evaluation board is a fully assembled and tested platform that demonstrates the operation of the SiC469 2 A synchronous buck regulator. It enables engineers to verify electrical performance-including efficiency, transient response, and protection behavior-under real-world conditions before integrating the SiC469 into their own designs. The SIC469EVB-E includes all necessary passive components, test points, and configuration jumpers to evaluate the SIC469EVB-E across its full operating range.

Does the SIC469EVB-E support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, the SIC469EVB-E supports adjustable output voltage from 0.8 V using the SiC469's internal 0.8 V reference and external resistor divider on the VFB pin. The board ships with default resistors set for a common output (e.g., 3.3 V or 5 V), but users can replace R_{FB_H} and/or R_{FB_L} to achieve any target voltage per the formula V_OUT = 0.8 V × (1 + R_{FB_H}/R_{FB_L}). This configuration is fully compatible with the SIC469EVB-E layout and maintains ±1 % regulation accuracy across temperature.

Can the SIC469EVB-E be used to evaluate light-load efficiency improvements?

Yes, the SIC469EVB-E enables direct evaluation of light-load efficiency enhancements provided by the SiC469's power-save mode. By configuring the MODE pin (via R_MODE) and enabling diode emulation, the board reduces switching losses and eliminates reverse inductor current-verified through measured efficiency curves at loads as low as 10 mA. This behavior is intrinsic to the SiC469 silicon and reproducible on the SIC469EVB-E without firmware or external controllers.

How is overcurrent protection implemented and tested on the SIC469EVB-E?

Overcurrent protection on the SIC469EVB-E is implemented via valley-current sensing in the SiC469, with three user-selectable thresholds (50 %, 75 %, or 100 % of nominal 2 A limit) set by connecting the ILIMIT pin to AGND, floating, or VDD. The SIC469EVB-E includes test points and jumper options to configure and validate OCP response-including hiccup-mode recovery after fault clearance-using standard lab equipment such as electronic loads and oscilloscopes.

Is the SIC469EVB-E compatible with Vishay's PowerCAD design tool?

Yes, the SIC469EVB-E is fully supported by Vishay PowerCAD online simulation software. Users can input their target specifications (input/output voltage, current, ripple, thermal constraints) and generate optimized external component values-including inductor, output capacitors, R_fSW, and R_MODE-that align directly with the SIC469EVB-E's physical layout and component footprints. This ensures seamless transition from simulation to hardware validation using the SIC469EVB-E.