STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL044V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL044V1 from STMicroelectronics is a 9 W, Triac-dimmable, isolated LED driver demonstration board based on the HVLED815PF controller IC, designed for US-market retrofit LED lamps replacing 40–60 W incandescent bulbs. It delivers ±5% primary-side current regulation without optocoupler, achieves >0.98 power factor and >86% efficiency, and fits within 28 mm tubing.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL044V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL044V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL044V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL044V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid evaluation of high-PF, dimmable, flyback-based LED driver designs using primary-side regulation and integrated 800 V avalanche-rated FET.

Technical Context

The STEVAL-ILL044V1 implements a transition-mode PFC-flyback converter controlled by the HVLED815PF, which integrates an 800 V avalanche-rated MOSFET and internal startup circuitry. Primary-side sensing eliminates optocoupler dependency while maintaining ±5% LED current accuracy across 90–132 V_AC input and varying LED string voltage.

It supports standard Triac phase-cut dimming with fast startup (<0.2 s), low THD (<20% over 90–132 V), and RoHS-compliant construction. The design uses only one tight-tolerance component and achieves isolation via transformer-coupled output.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL044V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED lamp retrofit development, residential smart lighting integration, and Triac-dimmable driver qualification requiring stable component supply and full-production reference design validation.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL044V1 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, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power ICs, analog chips, and sensors for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The STEVAL-ILL044V1 belongs to ST's LED Lighting Evaluation Board product line, developed to accelerate adoption of high-efficiency, dimmable, and standards-compliant AC/DC LED drivers for residential retrofit markets.

FAQ

Is STEVAL-ILL044V1 compatible with leading Triac dimmers?

Yes - it is validated for operation with standard leading-edge Triac dimmers across the 90–132 V_AC range. The board maintains stable dimming down to ~10% output with no audible noise or flicker under typical residential dimmer loads, as confirmed in ST's application note AN4257.

Does STEVAL-ILL044V1 require an optocoupler for feedback?

No - it uses primary-side regulation via the HVLED815PF controller, eliminating the optocoupler and secondary-side shunt regulator. Output current is sensed indirectly through auxiliary winding voltage, enabling reinforced isolation and reduced BOM count.

Can STEVAL-ILL044V1 be modified for 230 V_AC operation?

No - it is specifically designed for 90–132 V_AC (US line voltage). The transformer turns ratio, input capacitor rating, and HVLED815PF configuration are optimized for this range; adapting to 230 V would require redesign of magnetics, snubber, and protection components.

What safety certifications does STEVAL-ILL044V1 support?

The board implements reinforced isolation and meets creepage/clearance requirements per IEC 61347-2-13 and UL 1598. While the evaluation board itself is not certified, its design serves as the basis for end-product certifications including ENERGY STAR®, DLC, and FCC Part 15B Class B.