STMicroelectronics STEVAL-ISV006V1

Overview

STEVAL-ISV006V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board implementing the SPV1040 solar battery charger IC, configured as a 100 kHz fixed-frequency boost converter with integrated MPPT algorithm, 80 mΩ N-channel MOSFET switch, and 120 mΩ P-channel synchronous rectifier. It delivers up to 5.3 V output from ultra-low-input PV sources (startup at 0.3 V), supporting single-cell polycrystalline or amorphous solar panels (e.g., 1 V_MP/200 mA, 175 mW).

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-ISV006V1 datasheet, STEVAL-ISV006V1 pinout, STEVAL-ISV006V1 application, or STEVAL-ISV006V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of solar energy harvesting in low-power portable and remote sensing systems - including MPPT convergence behavior, startup under dim light, output regulation stability, and supercapacitor charging profiles.

Technical Context

The board implements a complete MPPT-controlled boost architecture centered on the SPV1040 IC, which executes Perturb-and-Observe algorithm via internal digital core and analog sensing blocks. Input voltage (VMPP-SET) and output voltage (VCTRL) are monitored through precision resistor dividers, while output current is sensed differentially across RS1 with RC filtering (RF1/RF2/CF) to suppress switching noise.

Protection logic is hardware-embedded: overcurrent shutdown triggers at ≥1.7 A peak inductor current; overtemperature disables switching above 155 °C; reverse polarity detection prevents damage; and zero-crossing control disables the synchronous rectifier to block reverse current flow during light-load or no-load conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-ISV006V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solar-powered IoT sensors, portable medical monitors, and remote environmental data loggers requiring stable component supply, validated reference design reuse, and fast prototyping of energy-harvesting power stages.

Supply support for STEVAL-ISV006V1 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 management ICs, sensors, and analog devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STEVAL-ISV006V1 belongs to ST's Solar Energy Harvesting Evaluation Platform series, developed specifically to accelerate adoption of ultra-low-voltage MPPT solutions for single-cell photovoltaic applications in space-constrained, battery-free, or maintenance-free systems.

FAQ

What input PV panel specifications are validated for STEVAL-ISV006V1?

The board is fully characterized with a 175 mW polycrystalline solar panel (V_MP = 1 V, I_MP = 175 mA, V_OC ≈ 1.3 V). It also supports 200 mW panels (V_MP = 1 V, I_MP = 200 mA) and maintains reliable startup down to 0.3 V input - verified under indoor lighting and partial shading conditions per AN3319 test reports.

How is MPPT performance validated on this board?

MPPT convergence and tracking accuracy are validated using the onboard VMPP-SET and VCTRL monitoring points, with oscilloscope capture of duty cycle modulation versus PV voltage/current sweeps. The Perturb-and-Observe algorithm achieves <±2% deviation from true MPP under steady-state irradiance and recovers within <150 ms after step changes in light intensity, as confirmed in Section 7 of AN3319.

Can STEVAL-ISV006V1 charge lithium-ion batteries directly?

No - the board regulates output voltage only (up to 5.3 V), with no integrated battery protection, charge termination, or CC/CV control. To charge Li-ion cells, an external linear or switching charger IC (e.g., STBC0x series) must be added downstream, using STEVAL-ISV006V1 as a regulated solar input stage feeding the charger's VIN pin.

What modifications enable higher output current capability?

To increase output current beyond ~300 mA, replace L1 with a 22 µH inductor rated for ≥2 A saturation current (e.g., Coilcraft PSI25201B-220MS), upgrade COUT1 to a 10 V, 10 µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor, and verify RS1 power rating supports peak I_OUT × 50 mV sensing margin. Layout thermal relief on high-current paths must also be enhanced per AN3319 Section 7 guidelines.