STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL028V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL028V1 from STMicroelectronics is an RGB LED driver demonstration board built around three STP1612PW05 16-channel constant-current LED drivers in QFN24 4×4 mm packages, one STM32 microcontroller with internal HS oscillator, and one ST1S10 DC-DC converter. It supports 7.5–18 V DC input with undifferentiated polarity, delivers up to 0.7 A input current, and enables per-LED color/brightness control and animated text display for backlighting evaluation.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL028V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL028V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL028V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL028V1 equivalent, this board serves as a validated platform for evaluating SPI/DMA-controlled RGB LED driving, fault detection (short/open/overtemperature), and firmware-updatable LED diagnostics in display backlight and color signage systems.

Technical Context

The board implements a hierarchical LED control architecture: the STM32 MCU generates PWM timing and manages error reporting via SPI commands to three STP1612PW05 drivers, each independently regulating 16 high-brightness RGB LEDs with constant-current sinks. DMA offloads LED data transfer to minimize CPU overhead during animation sequences.

Power delivery uses the ST1S10 synchronous step-down converter to generate stable supply rails; input overvoltage protection and polarity-insensitive DC jack ensure robust lab and prototyping use. JTAG interface enables full firmware reprogramming, while mini-USB provides PC connectivity for GUI-based diagnostics and real-time parameter adjustment.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL028V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RGB backlight evaluation, LED signage prototyping, and embedded display driver validation requiring stable component supply and documented reference firmware.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL028V1 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 devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

This board belongs to ST's STEVAL (ST Evaluation) series - purpose-built demonstration platforms that integrate ST silicon with validated firmware and PCB layout to accelerate evaluation of LED driving, motor control, power conversion, and sensor signal chain subsystems.

FAQ

Does STEVAL-ILL028V1 support standalone operation without a PC?

Yes. The board includes preloaded firmware enabling standalone mode with adjustable color, brightness, and animated text display. All functions are accessible via onboard controls and status LEDs - no PC or GUI software required for basic evaluation.

What is the role of the three STP1612PW05 drivers on this board?

Each STP1612PW05 drives 16 high-brightness LEDs with constant-current regulation and 12-bit PWM dimming. Arranged in three groups, they collectively manage 48 RGB channels - enabling full-color pixel control for displays or segmented backlight zones.

Can the STM32 microcontroller be reprogrammed with custom firmware?

Yes. The board provides a standard ARM JTAG interface (20-pin connector) and supports SWD debugging. Users can load custom firmware using ST's STM32CubeIDE or third-party toolchains - full schematics and reference code are publicly available from ST.

How does the board detect LED faults?

It uses dedicated hardware monitoring: each STP1612PW05 reports open-circuit, short-circuit, and thermal fault conditions to the STM32 via status registers. Three jumpers allow manual LED disconnection or shorting to verify detection logic in real time.