STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL014V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL014V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board for the STCS1A constant-current LED driver IC, designed to demonstrate high-brightness LED control with 4.5–40 V input range, <0.5 V overhead voltage, and up to 1.5 A output current. It integrates PWM dimming, shutdown, and LED disconnection diagnostics for signage and automotive lighting applications.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL014V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL014V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL014V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL014V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of STCS1A-based LED current regulation under real-world thermal and load conditions with diagnostic feedback.

Technical Context

The board implements the STCS1A in a buck topology with external MOSFET and inductor, supporting wide-input industrial and automotive supply rails. It provides direct access to the STCS1A's DIM (PWM dimming) and SHDN (active-low shutdown) control pins, plus dedicated test points for LED open-circuit detection via voltage monitoring at the sense resistor.

Designed for constant-current operation only, it excludes integrated switching elements-requiring external N-channel MOSFET, Schottky diode, and power inductor-and relies on the STCS1A's internal 200 mΩ current-sense amplifier and 1.23 V reference for precision current setting.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL014V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED signage development, automotive interior lighting prototyping, and emergency vehicle warning light design requiring stable component supply and validated reference schematics.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL014V1 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, delivering microcontrollers, power ICs, sensors, and analog solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STEVAL-ILL014V1 belongs to ST's Lighting Evaluation Board product line, engineered to accelerate adoption of ST's constant-current LED drivers in high-reliability, thermally constrained lighting systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED string voltage supported by STEVAL-ILL014V1?

The board itself imposes no fixed string voltage limit-the maximum depends on input voltage minus the STCS1A's <0.5 V overhead and external component ratings. With 40 V input, typical designs support up to ~38 V LED string voltage using appropriately rated MOSFET and diode components.

Does STEVAL-ILL014V1 include the STCS1A IC pre-mounted?

Yes, the STEVAL-ILL014V1 evaluation board ships with the STCS1A constant-current controller IC already soldered and fully functional. No additional IC installation or configuration is required to begin testing LED current regulation behavior.

Can STEVAL-ILL014V1 be used for analog dimming?

No-STEVAL-ILL014V1 supports only PWM dimming via its dedicated DIM pin. The STCS1A does not implement analog (DC voltage or current) dimming; brightness control requires externally generated PWM signals within 100 Hz–20 kHz range.

Is a heatsink required for continuous 1.5 A operation?

Yes-sustained 1.5 A output requires adequate PCB copper area and/or external heatsinking for the external MOSFET and inductor. Thermal performance data in the reference design confirms >65 °C case temperature rise without supplemental cooling at full load.