STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ISA044V6

Overview

STEVAL-ISA044V6 from STMicroelectronics is a demonstration board implementing the ST1S10 3 A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in DFN package, operating at 900 kHz fixed frequency or externally synchronized (400 kHz–1.2 MHz), with inhibit control and <6 µA quiescent current in shutdown-designed for LCD bias and HDD core power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ISA044V6 datasheet, STEVAL-ISA044V6 pinout, STEVAL-ISA044V6 application, or STEVAL-ISA044V6 equivalent, key selection factors include input voltage range (2.5–18 V), output current capability (3 A), synchronization flexibility, inhibit functionality, and thermal shutdown (150 °C).

Technical Context

The board implements the ST1S10 IC using current-mode PWM control, enabling stable regulation with low-ESR ceramic capacitors and low output ripple. It supports both fixed-frequency (900 kHz) and external clock synchronization via the SYNC pin, with operation spanning 400 kHz to 1.2 MHz.

Burst mode automatically engages under light load to maximize efficiency, while cycle-by-cycle current limiting and thermal shutdown (150 °C activation) provide robust short-circuit and overtemperature protection. The inhibit function disables switching and reduces quiescent current to <6 µA.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ISA044V6 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD display biasing, HDD digital-core power, portable instrumentation, and industrial point-of-load conversion requiring stable component supply and rapid evaluation capability.

Supply support for STEVAL-ISA044V6 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-ISA044V6 belongs to ST's evaluation board portfolio for DC-DC converters, developed to accelerate design-in of high-efficiency, compact synchronous buck regulators targeting space-constrained and thermally sensitive applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STEVAL-ISA044V6?

The STEVAL-ISA044V6 is a ready-to-use demonstration board for the ST1S10 synchronous step-down DC-DC converter. It provides a validated hardware reference for evaluating 3 A output, 900 kHz switching, input range up to 18 V, and inhibit-controlled shutdown-targeting LCD bias and HDD core power applications.

Does the board support external frequency synchronization?

Yes. The STEVAL-ISA044V6 exposes the SYNC pin of the ST1S10 IC. When driven with an external clock signal between 400 kHz and 1.2 MHz, the board synchronizes its switching frequency to that source-enabling noise-sensitive system-level timing alignment and EMI reduction.

How does the inhibit function affect power consumption?

When the INH pin is pulled low, the ST1S10 halts switching and enters ultra-low-power state, drawing less than 6 µA from VIN. This feature enables rapid, controlled shutdown in battery-backed or energy-harvesting systems without requiring additional enable circuitry.

What components are required beyond the board to operate it?

No additional active components are needed. The board integrates the ST1S10 DFN IC, power inductor, input/output capacitors, and feedback resistors. Users only need a DC input source (2.5–18 V), load, and optional SYNC clock source-making it immediately operational for functional validation and efficiency measurement.