STMicroelectronics STEVAL-A6983NV1

Overview

STEVAL-A6983NV1 from STMicroelectronics is an automotive-grade evaluation board based on the A6983NQTR synchronous step-down DC-DC converter, delivering up to 3 A output current with input range 3.5–38 V, fixed 3.3 V or 5 V output options, and AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification for body electronics applications.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-A6983NV1 datasheet, STEVAL-A6983NV1 pinout, STEVAL-A6983NV1 application, or STEVAL-A6983NV1 equivalent, key selection factors include its QFN16 (3 × 3 mm) layout compatibility, programmable 0.2–2.2 MHz switching frequency, spread-spectrum EMC support, power-good signaling, and thermal/overvoltage protection in parking-mode-optimized light-load operation.

Technical Context

The STEVAL-A6983NV1 implements a peak current mode control architecture using the A6983NQTR IC, enabling stable regulation across wide VIN (3.5–38 V) and load conditions while maintaining <25 µA quiescent current in low-power parking mode. It supports external clock synchronization and optional spread-spectrum modulation to reduce EMI peaks.

Board-level features include internal soft-start (1.3 ms), open-drain Power Good monitoring of FB voltage, pulse-by-pulse current sensing on high- and low-side MOSFETs, and thermal shutdown. The EN pin enables high-voltage-compatible enable/disable control with 2 µA shutdown current.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-A6983NV1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, infotainment power rails, and ADAS sensor supply design requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant reference validation.

Supply support for STEVAL-A6983NV1 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power management ICs, analog devices, and automotive-grade solutions.

The STEVAL-A6983NV1 belongs to ST's automotive evaluation board portfolio, developed specifically to accelerate design-in of the A6983NQTR buck regulator for low-quiescent-current, high-reliability vehicle body and convenience applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STEVAL-A6983NV1 evaluation board?

The STEVAL-A6983NV1 is a fully assembled and tested reference design board that demonstrates the A6983NQTR synchronous buck converter in automotive applications. It provides immediate hardware validation of electrical performance, thermal behavior, EMC compliance, and functional safety features-including power sequencing, overvoltage protection, and parking-mode efficiency-without requiring custom PCB development.

Does the STEVAL-A6983NV1 support adjustable output voltage?

No-the STEVAL-A6983NV1 is configured for fixed-output versions only: either 3.3 V or 5 V, as determined by the resistor divider on the FB pin and onboard feedback network. Output voltage adjustment requires modifying the feedback resistors per the A6983NQTR datasheet, but the board itself is not shipped with variable-output configuration or potentiometer support.

Can the STEVAL-A6983NV1 be synchronized to an external clock source?

Yes-the board exposes the SYNC pin of the A6983NQTR IC and supports external clock synchronization from 0.2 MHz to 2.2 MHz. This allows timing alignment with other switching regulators in multi-rail systems to minimize beat frequencies and improve overall system-level EMC performance.

What thermal management features are implemented on the STEVAL-A6983NV1?

The board uses the A6983NQTR's internal thermal shutdown circuitry and leverages the QFN16 package's exposed thermal pad, soldered directly to a dedicated copper pour on the PCB. Thermal vias beneath the pad connect to inner and bottom-layer ground planes, enabling effective heat transfer and sustained 3 A operation at junction temperatures up to +150°C.