STMicroelectronics STEVAL-PCN001V1

Overview

STEVAL-PCN001V1 from STMicroelectronics is a USB power switch demonstration board built around the ST204x/ST205x USB power switches and ST72F62 microcontroller, supporting configurable input voltages (4.4 V to 5.25 V), selectable load currents (100 mA to 2 A), under-voltage protection, and HID-class USB host communication via Windows GUI software.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-PCN001V1 datasheet, STEVAL-PCN001V1 pinout, STEVAL-PCN001V1 application, or STEVAL-PCN001V1 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of USB power switch behavior-including enable/disable control, voltage regulation via LM317T, in-application programming (IAP) using an external 12 V charge pump, and real-load testing with USB peripherals such as speakers.

Technical Context

The board implements a HID-based USB communication protocol between a Windows host and the ST72F62 microcontroller, enabling real-time configuration of power switch parameters including input voltage selection (via resistive network), load current setting (via R37), and enable state control through the GUI or onboard switches.

It integrates four STS8DNH3LL dual N-channel MOSFETs for independent power switching, an LM317T adjustable regulator for programmable output voltage, and a dedicated 12 V charge-pump circuit for IAP-allowing firmware updates without removing the microcontroller from the board.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-PCN001V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB power management validation, embedded firmware development, and USB peripheral interface qualification requiring stable component supply and full design transparency.

Supply support for STEVAL-PCN001V1 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.

This board belongs to ST's STEVAL evaluation platform family, developed specifically to accelerate adoption of ST's USB power switches and low-speed USB microcontrollers through turnkey hardware-software reference implementations.

FAQ

What software tools are required to operate STEVAL-PCN001V1?

The board requires two Windows executables: USBPS_GUI for real-time power switch control and monitoring, and DFUGUI for firmware upgrades via USB DFU mode. Both tools are provided with the board documentation, and no additional drivers or SDKs are needed due to HID-class compliance.

Can STEVAL-PCN001V1 be used with non-ST USB power switches?

No - the board is specifically designed for ST204x and ST205x USB power switches, with matching pinout, biasing, and protection circuitry. The STS8DNH3LL MOSFETs and LM317T regulator are configured to match the electrical requirements and timing characteristics of those ST devices only.

Is in-application programming (IAP) supported, and how is it implemented?

Yes - IAP is enabled via an on-board 12 V charge-pump circuit driving the VPP pin of the ST72F62. This allows firmware updates while the microcontroller remains soldered on the board, using standard USB connection and DFUGUI without requiring ICC programming hardware.

Does the board support real-world USB peripheral loads beyond resistive test loads?

Yes - the board includes a dedicated USB-A-type connector labeled "TO LOAD" that delivers regulated, switched power to actual USB peripherals such as speakers, LED hubs, or bus-powered accessories, with LED indicators confirming applied voltage and load conditions.