STMicroelectronics STEVAL-IFP028V1

Overview

STEVAL-IFP028V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board for the IPS160H single high-side switch, designed for functional safety applications targeting SIL2 and SIL3 compliance. It supports 8–60 V input voltage, delivers up to 2.5 A load current, features galvanic isolation via dual optocouplers (OPTO1/OPTO2), programmable cut-off delay, reverse polarity protection, and diagnostic LEDs indicating open-load, thermal shutdown, and cut-off events.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-IFP028V1 datasheet, STEVAL-IFP028V1 pinout, STEVAL-IFP028V1 application, or STEVAL-IFP028V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of IPS160H behavior in industrial safety-critical power switching, including diagnostics interface timing, optical isolation integrity, and fault reporting under IEC 61000-4-2/4-4/4-5 surge immunity conditions.

Technical Context

The board implements bidirectional galvanic isolation: OPTO1 isolates MCU control signals (ID0/ID1) to the IPS160H IN1 pin, while OPTO2 isolates diagnostic feedback (DIAG) from the device to the microcontroller interface. Isolation withstands ≥4 kV (C4/C2), meeting IEC 61000-4-5 surge requirements.

Thermal performance is enhanced by a dedicated copper pour connected to the PSSO12 package's exposed tab (U2 pin 13), and operation above 40 V requires jumper J1 to be open to protect the SMCJ40CA TVS diode (U1). The red LED on DIAG only functions reliably when VCC ≥ 12 V.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-IFP028V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial safety PLC modules, automotive body control units, railway signaling interfaces, and factory automation I/O subsystems requiring stable component supply and certified evaluation hardware.

Supply support for STEVAL-IFP028V1 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, specializing in microcontrollers, power management, analog ICs, and safety-certified solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

This board belongs to ST's Industrial Safety Evaluation Platform product line, developed specifically to accelerate functional safety validation of high-side switches in SIL2/SIL3-compliant systems using standardized test interfaces and certified diagnostic firmware.

FAQ

What is the minimum VCC required for full diagnostic LED functionality?

The red LED on the DIAG pin is guaranteed to operate only when VCC ≥ 12 V. Below this threshold, diagnostic visual indication is not assured, though the underlying IPS160H fault signals remain electrically valid and readable via OPTO2. This limitation stems from the LED driver circuit's forward voltage and current regulation design.

Why must jumper J1 be open for supply voltages above 40 V?

Jumper J1 must be open above 40 V to prevent permanent damage to the SMCJ40CA TVS diode (U1), which has a 40 V standoff voltage. With J1 closed, the TVS clamps at ~40 V, causing excessive power dissipation and thermal failure during sustained overvoltage conditions.

Can STEVAL-IFP028V1 be used without STEVAL-PCC009V2?

Yes - the board operates standalone with manual control via ID0/ID1 jumpers and local diagnostics via LEDs. However, real-time status monitoring, fault logging, and parameter configuration require STEVAL-PCC009V2 and STSW-IPS16X GUI, as the board lacks native USB or serial transceivers.

Does the board support daisy-chaining multiple IPS160H devices?

No - STEVAL-IFP028V1 is a single-channel evaluation platform. It provides one IPS160H (U2) in PSSO12 package with dedicated opto-isolated control and diagnostics paths. Multi-channel evaluation requires separate boards or custom carrier designs.