STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL008V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL008V1 from STMicroelectronics is an LED flashlight evaluation board built around the L6920DA synchronous step-up DC-DC converter, delivering 3.5 V output from 1–3 V input (dual-cell alkaline/NiMH), supporting white LED drive with startup guaranteed at 1 V, 10 µA quiescent current, and integrated 120 mΩ P-channel MOSFET synchronous rectifier.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL008V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL008V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL008V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL008V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of low-voltage battery-powered LED lighting designs requiring high efficiency, minimal external components, and robust start-up under weak battery conditions.

Technical Context

The board implements a fixed-output 3.5 V boost topology using the L6920DA IC, which integrates oscillator, PWM controller, and synchronous power switch. It operates in pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) mode for ultra-low I_Q, enabling operation down to 0.6 V input while maintaining regulation.

Feedback is implemented via resistor divider (R3/R4) connected to FB pin, setting output voltage precisely. The LX node drives a 10 µH power inductor (Coilcraft DO1608C-103), and output filtering uses two parallel 47 µF/6.3 V electrolytic capacitors (C1/C2) plus 0.1 µF ceramic (C3).

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL008V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable lighting, emergency signage, and handheld inspection tools requiring stable component supply, fast design iteration, and validated reference schematics for battery-powered LED systems.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL008V1 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 microcontrollers, power ICs, sensors, and analog/mixed-signal devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STEVAL series reflects ST's dedicated evaluation platform strategy-providing fully assembled, tested, and documented reference designs to accelerate adoption of its power management and LED driver ICs in real-world applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED forward current supported by STEVAL-ILL008V1?

The board is configured for constant-voltage operation at 3.5 V and does not include active current regulation. Maximum LED current depends on the connected LED's IV curve and thermal derating; typical white LEDs draw 20–30 mA at 3.5 V. External current-limiting resistors or redesign with current-sense feedback are required for precise current control.

Can STEVAL-ILL008V1 operate from a single AA/AAA cell?

Yes - the L6920DA IC guarantees startup at 1.0 V and operates down to 0.6 V, making it compatible with single alkaline (1.5 V fresh → ~0.9 V depleted) or NiMH (1.2 V nominal → ~0.7 V end-of-discharge) cells, though output regulation degrades below ~0.9 V input.

Is the L6920DA IC on STEVAL-ILL008V1 replaceable with another boost controller?

No - the L6920DA is soldered in SOT-23-5 package and tightly integrated with board layout (inductor placement, feedback divider, and routing). Substitution would require full schematic and layout revision due to differences in pinout, control architecture, and internal MOSFET specs.

Does STEVAL-ILL008V1 include overtemperature or overcurrent protection?

No - the L6920DA IC lacks built-in thermal shutdown or cycle-by-cycle current limiting. Protection relies on external design choices (e.g., LED thermal pad, PCB copper area) and inherent current roll-off as input voltage drops. No fuse, NTC, or shutdown circuitry is present on the board.