STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ISA160V1

Overview

STEVAL-ISA160V1 from STMicroelectronics is an automotive-grade evaluation board built around the AST1S31HF 3 A, 2.3 MHz synchronous step-down DC/DC regulator in VFDFPN 3×3–8L package, supporting 2.8–4.0 V input and adjustable 0.8 V to VIN output, with integrated 70 mΩ/55 mΩ MOSFETs and power-good signaling.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ISA160V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ISA160V1 pinout, STEVAL-ISA160V1 application, or STEVAL-ISA160V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of high-frequency, ceramic-capacitor-based buck regulation in space-constrained automotive power rails requiring AEC-Q100 compliance and cycle-by-cycle current limiting.

Technical Context

The board implements peak-current-mode control with internal compensation, eliminating external loop compensation components. It operates at a fixed 2.3 MHz switching frequency to minimize output ripple and enable use of small 0.91 µH inductors and all-ceramic output capacitors (47 µF + 22 µF).

Protection features include internal soft-start, enable control, power-on reset (PGOOD), cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and current-foldback short-circuit response - all implemented via the AST1S31HF IC without auxiliary circuitry.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ISA160V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ADAS domain controllers, infotainment SoC power sequencing, and body electronics ECUs requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q100-qualified reference designs.

Supply support for STEVAL-ISA160V1 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 silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications with emphasis on reliability and functional safety.

The STEVAL-ISA160V1 belongs to ST's automotive power evaluation platform family, developed specifically to accelerate qualification and integration of AEC-Q100-compliant DC/DC regulators into safety-critical vehicle subsystems.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STEVAL-ISA160V1 evaluation board?

The STEVAL-ISA160V1 is a fully assembled and tested evaluation platform for the AST1S31HF synchronous buck regulator. It delivers up to 3 A at adjustable output voltages from 0.8 V, operating from 2.8–4.0 V input with 2.3 MHz switching. Its purpose is to validate performance, thermal behavior, and layout best practices for automotive power rail design.

Does the board support external synchronization or frequency modulation?

No. The AST1S31HF IC used on STEVAL-ISA160V1 employs a fixed 2.3 MHz internal oscillator with no provision for external sync input, spread-spectrum modulation, or frequency adjustment. The board reflects this limitation - it lacks SYNC, TRIM, or FREQ pins and does not support dynamic frequency scaling.

Can the output voltage be set below 0.8 V using external resistor dividers?

No. The AST1S31HF has a minimum feedback reference voltage of 0.8 V and no internal means to scale below that threshold. The board's R1/R2 divider network is configured for standard 0.8 V reference operation; attempting sub-0.8 V outputs violates the IC's specified operating range and disables regulation.

Is the STEVAL-ISA160V1 RoHS and REACH compliant?

Yes. As documented in the official data brief (DocID029028 Rev 1), the STEVAL-ISA160V1 evaluation board and all its components are RoHS compliant. STMicroelectronics confirms full compliance with EU Directive 2011/65/EU and REACH SVHC requirements per the bill of materials and manufacturing process.