STMicroelectronics STEVAL-SCR001V1

Overview

STEVAL-SCR001V1 from STMicroelectronics is an evaluation board implementing an analog inrush current limiting solution using two TN5015H-6G SCRs in D²PAK package, operating from 90–265 VAC at 50/60 Hz, supporting up to 800 W (230 VRMS, 60 °C ambient), with self-synchronized pulsed gate drive and 2 kV surge immunity per IEC 61000-4-5.

For engineers reviewing the STEVAL-SCR001V1 datasheet, STEVAL-SCR001V1 pinout, STEVAL-SCR001V1 application, or STEVAL-SCR001V1 equivalent, this board delivers a relay-free, MCU-less, compact SMD bypass solution for PFC and flyback converters requiring robust EMI performance (EN55014), low gate drive consumption, and no reverse SCR losses.

Technical Context

The board implements line-synchronized analog control: gate pulses are derived directly from AC zero-crossing via resistive divider and transistor-based timing circuitry, eliminating need for external clock or microcontroller. SCR triggering occurs only during positive half-cycles after delay determined by R-C network and transistor switching thresholds.

Power for the drive circuit is sourced from an unregulated 12 V supply tapped from a secondary winding - compatible with auxiliary outputs of PFC or flyback stages. The TN5015H-6G SCRs feature 50 A non-repetitive peak on-state current and 15 A RMS rating, enabling reliable operation at 5 A peak load current under 60 °C ambient.

Key Specifications

Availability

STEVAL-SCR001V1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PFC front-ends, flyback converters, and industrial AC-DC power supplies requiring stable component supply, rapid prototyping validation, and relay-free inrush mitigation.

Supply support for STEVAL-SCR001V1 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 power applications with emphasis on energy efficiency and system reliability.

This board belongs to ST's STEVAL (ST Evaluation) series - purpose-built reference designs that accelerate validation of ST's discrete power devices and analog control topologies in real-world AC-DC conversion systems.

FAQ

What is the required power supply for the STEVAL-SCR001V1 drive circuit?

The board requires an unregulated 12 V DC supply, typically derived from a secondary winding of the main transformer or auxiliary output of a PFC/flyback stage. No regulation or filtering is needed - the analog drive circuit operates reliably across ±10% variation and tolerates ripple up to 2 Vpp.

Can STEVAL-SCR001V1 replace mechanical relays in existing designs?

Yes - it replaces relays in inrush resistor bypass applications with higher reliability, silent operation, and no contact wear. Implementation requires only five wire connections (VAC_L, VAC_N, OUT, R_INR, AUX) and no firmware or timing adjustments when 12 V is supplied.

Does the board support both 50 Hz and 60 Hz input frequencies?

Yes - the self-synchronizing analog trigger circuit automatically adapts to 50 Hz or 60 Hz line frequency. Zero-crossing detection and pulse timing scale inherently with AC period, ensuring consistent turn-on delay and conduction window across both standards.

What is the thermal derating behavior above 60 °C ambient?

At ambient temperatures exceeding 60 °C, peak current capability reduces linearly to 3.5 A at 85 °C ambient. This reflects the TN5015H-6G SCR's thermal resistance and PCB copper area limitations - full 5 A operation requires ≥10 cm² of 2 oz copper pour under each D²PAK device.