STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILB001V2

Overview

STEVAL-ILB001V2 from STMicroelectronics is a 36 W, 220 Vac input demonstration board implementing a bipolar transistor–based active PFC for low-cost HF electronic ballasts. It uses boost topology in discontinuous-conduction mode (DCM), achieves RoHS compliance, and requires no dedicated PWM IC-regulating output power via closed-loop feedback directly modulating the bipolar transistor's duty cycle.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILB001V2 datasheet, STEVAL-ILB001V2 pinout, STEVAL-ILB001V2 application, or STEVAL-ILB001V2 equivalent, this board serves as a validated reference design for cost-sensitive, medium-power (<80 W) fluorescent lamp ballast systems requiring THD <10% and PF >0.95 without auxiliary control ICs.

Technical Context

The board implements an analog active PFC using a single power bipolar transistor (not MOSFET or IC-based controller) in a boost converter configuration. Feedback is derived from output voltage sensing and rectified line current sampling to enforce DCM operation and regulate 36 W into a lamp load.

It operates exclusively at 220 Vac nominal input (50 Hz), delivers regulated DC bus voltage to drive downstream HF inverter stages, and relies on passive component tuning (inductor value, timing capacitor, feedback resistor network) to set switching frequency, conduction angle, and regulation setpoint-no programmable logic or digital control is present.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILB001V2 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for fluorescent lamp ballast development, lighting OEM prototyping, and industrial PFC reference design validation requiring stable component supply and documented analog PFC implementation.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILB001V2 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, designing and manufacturing analog, MCU, power, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

This board belongs to ST's STEVAL (ST Evaluation) series-reference designs intended to accelerate customer adoption of ST's discrete power and analog building-block solutions in lighting, power conversion, and motor control.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STEVAL-ILB001V2 board?

The STEVAL-ILB001V2 is a complete, tested reference design for an active power factor correction (PFC) stage targeting low-cost HF fluorescent lamp ballasts. It implements a bipolar transistor–based boost converter operating in discontinuous-conduction mode to achieve PF >0.95 and THD <10% at 220 Vac input, eliminating need for dedicated PFC controller ICs.

Can STEVAL-ILB001V2 operate from 110 Vac or universal input?

No. The board is specifically designed and optimized for 220 Vac ±10%, 50 Hz mains input. Component values-including boost inductor, timing capacitor, and feedback network-are tuned for this voltage and frequency. Operation at 110 Vac would result in insufficient conduction time, unstable regulation, and potential overvoltage stress on the bipolar transistor.

Does STEVAL-ILB001V2 include an integrated HF inverter stage?

No. The board implements only the front-end active PFC stage. Its output is a regulated high-voltage DC bus intended to feed a separate HF inverter circuit (e.g., half-bridge or Royer oscillator) that drives the fluorescent lamp. No lamp driver transistors, resonant tank, or lamp socket are included on this board.

Is STEVAL-ILB001V2 still in active production?

STMicroelectronics has marked STEVAL-ILB001V2 as obsolete per official documentation (Doc ID 18010 Rev 1, Sept 2010). While functional and supported for legacy design reuse, it is not recommended for new designs. ST recommends evaluating newer PFC solutions such as the L6562A-based STEVAL-ILL004V1 or digital alternatives like the STLUX385A platform.