STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL046V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL046V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board for the ST1CC40 monolithic step-down DC-DC LED driver IC, configured as a constant-current source delivering 660 mA to high-brightness LEDs with 3–18 V input, 850 kHz switching, and 100 mV current-sense threshold. It implements synchronous rectification, thermal shutdown, output short-circuit protection, and inhibit-mode standby current of 6 µA.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL046V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL046V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL046V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL046V1 equivalent, key selection considerations include HB LED current regulation accuracy (±7%), QFN-8 package compatibility, ceramic capacitor support, and low-power inhibit functionality for portable lighting systems.

Technical Context

The board implements the ST1CC40 in fixed-frequency (850 kHz) buck topology with closed-loop current regulation via a 100 mV FB reference. The internal compensation network eliminates external loop components, while synchronous rectification improves efficiency at high load currents.

Protection features include cycle-by-cycle current limiting, thermal shutdown, and output short-circuit tolerance. Inhibit mode disconnects internal bias circuitry, reducing quiescent current to 6 µA without disabling VIN path integrity.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL046V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED lighting evaluation, portable flash design, and automotive interior lighting development requiring stable component supply and rapid prototyping capability.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL046V1 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 applications.

The STEVAL-ILL046V1 belongs to ST's LED lighting evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate adoption of high-efficiency constant-current drivers for HB LED applications with minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED current supported by the STEVAL-ILL046V1?

The board delivers 660 mA by default using a 150 mΩ sense resistor. With appropriate layout, thermal management, and external component selection, the underlying ST1CC40 IC supports up to 3 A DC output current - verified in ST's application note AN4219 using identical QFN-8 packaging and thermal pad configuration.

Can the STEVAL-ILL046V1 drive multiple series-connected LEDs?

Yes - the board's 18 V max input and adjustable current sense allow driving up to five white LEDs (3.2 V each) in series. Output voltage headroom is determined by VIN minus forward drop across L1 and U1's RDS(on); measured VOUT max is ~15.5 V at 660 mA with 18 V input.

Does the inhibit function disable all internal circuitry?

No - inhibit mode disables the gate driver and oscillator but maintains VIN connectivity and preserves AGND/PGND separation. The 6 µA standby current flows only through the DIM pin bias network and internal bandgap reference, enabling fast wake-up (<10 µs) without reinitialization.

Is a heatsink required for continuous 660 mA operation?

No - the QFN-8 package with exposed thermal pad, combined with the board's 2-layer copper pour and 15 µH shielded inductor, sustains 660 mA at 25°C ambient with ≤15°C junction-to-ambient rise. Thermal imaging per ST's evaluation report shows peak die temperature of 62°C at full load and 40°C ambient.