STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ILL056V1

Overview

STEVAL-ILL056V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board built around the LED5000 monolithic 3 A step-down constant-current LED driver IC in HSOP8 package, supporting buck, buck-boost, and floating boost topologies with 850 kHz switching frequency, ±3% output current accuracy, and PWM dimming control. It targets high-brightness LED lighting systems requiring stable current regulation across 5.5–48 V input.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ILL056V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ILL056V1 pinout, STEVAL-ILL056V1 application, or STEVAL-ILL056V1 equivalent, this page delivers verified topology support, thermal performance data from the reference design, dimming timing behavior, and real-world component selection guidance for street lighting, signage, and halogen replacement designs.

Technical Context

The STEVAL-ILL056V1 implements a peak current mode buck converter using the LED5000 IC, which integrates a 200 mΩ internal MOSFET, 200 mV current-sense reference, and transconductance error amplifier (220 µS, 90 dB gain). Its fixed 850 kHz switching frequency enables compact magnetics and ceramic output capacitors.

Functional blocks include dedicated PWM dimming logic (DIM pin), inhibit control (INH pin) for <40 µA standby current, hiccup-mode short-circuit protection, and thermal shutdown at 150 °C with 15 °C hysteresis. The board uses the HSOP8 package's exposed pad tied to GND for thermal performance - R_thJA = 40 °C/W measured on this board.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ILL056V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for street lighting, commercial signage, architectural LED installations, and halogen bulb replacement projects requiring stable component supply, validated thermal performance, and production-ready layout practices.

Supply support for STEVAL-ILL056V1 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 management ICs, analog chips, and sensors for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The STEVAL-ILL056V1 belongs to ST's LED lighting evaluation platform family, engineered to accelerate development of high-efficiency, thermally robust constant-current LED drivers for outdoor and commercial lighting systems.

FAQ

What topologies does the STEVAL-ILL056V1 support out of the box?

The board is configured as a buck converter by default, but its LED5000 controller natively supports buck-boost (inverting and positive) and floating boost topologies. Layout provisions and component footprints allow reconfiguration per Sections 5–6 of the LED5000 datasheet, including modified feedback routing and external diode placement.

How is thermal performance validated on this evaluation board?

Thermal resistance is measured as R_thJA = 40 °C/W when mounted on the STEVAL-ILL056V1 PCB with the HSOP8 exposed pad soldered to a 25 mm² copper pour. This value is documented in Section 2.2 of the LED5000 datasheet and confirmed under 3 A load at 48 V input with natural convection.

Can the STEVAL-ILL056V1 drive multi-string LED arrays?

No - it is designed for single-string constant-current operation up to 3 A. Driving multiple independent strings requires separate current-regulated channels or external current mirrors; the board lacks isolation or parallel-current-sharing circuitry. For multi-string needs, ST recommends using multiple LED5000-based boards or higher-channel controllers like the STP16CP05.

What dimming frequency range is supported without visible flicker?

The DIM pin accepts PWM signals from 100 Hz to 25 kHz. At ≥1 kHz, flicker is imperceptible to the human eye; optimal performance (fast rise/fall edges, minimal overshoot) occurs between 1–5 kHz with the default 1 µF output capacitor. Lower frequencies increase residual current tail time due to output capacitor discharge dynamics.