STMicroelectronics X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1

Overview

X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 from STMicroelectronics is an industrial digital output expansion board for STM32 Nucleo platforms, built around the IPS2050H dual high-side smart power switch. It delivers up to 2.5 A per channel at 8–33 V (extendable to 60 V), features 5 kV galvanic isolation via optocouplers, per-channel overload/over-temperature diagnostics, and EMC compliance per IEC61000-4-2/3/5.

For engineers reviewing the X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 datasheet, X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 pinout, X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 application, or X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 equivalent, this board enables rapid evaluation of industrial-grade digital output modules with Arduino UNO R3 and ST morpho connectivity, dual-channel high-side switching, real-time fault reporting, and stackable multi-board system validation.

Technical Context

The board interfaces a host STM32 Nucleo MCU (e.g., NUCLEO-F401RE or NUCLEO-G431RB) via GPIO-driven TLP383 optocouplers, providing 5 kV isolation between control and power domains. Each channel uses the IPS2050H in PSSO24 package with integrated R_ON(max) = 50 mΩ, fast decay for inductive loads, and smart capacitive load driving.

Diagnostic feedback is implemented through red LEDs indicating per-channel FLT1/FLT2 faults (overload or over-temperature), while green LEDs show OUT1/OUT2 status. Jumper J3 enables extended 60 V operation; reverse polarity protection and ESD/TVS components (ESDA15P60-1U1M, SM15T39CA) ensure robustness in harsh industrial environments.

Key Specifications

Availability

X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for programmable logic controller (PLC) I/O module development, industrial automation prototyping, and STM32-based digital output system validation requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and CE/RoHS-compliant hardware.

Supply support for X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 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 ICs, sensors, and analog/mixed-signal solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The X-NUCLEO series targets rapid STM32 ecosystem expansion with plug-and-play, standards-compliant hardware; X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 specifically addresses industrial digital output requirements with high-current, fault-aware, and safety-isolated switching.

FAQ

What microcontrollers is the X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 compatible with?

The board is designed for STM32 Nucleo development boards including NUCLEO-F401RE and NUCLEO-G431RB. It connects via Arduino UNO R3 headers (default) or optional ST morpho pins. Control signals are isolated using TLP383 optocouplers, ensuring compatibility across STM32 families with 3.3 V or 5 V GPIO logic levels.

How does the board handle fault conditions like overload or overheating?

Each channel implements independent hardware-level protection via the IPS2050H: overload triggers current limiting and automatic shutdown, while over-temperature activates thermal shutdown. Fault status is reported on dedicated FLT1/FLT2 pins and indicated by red LEDs. No firmware intervention is required for basic protection activation.

Can multiple X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 boards be stacked, and what is the maximum channel count?

Yes - up to four X-NUCLEO-OUT03A1 boards can be physically and electrically stacked on a single Nucleo baseboard. This configuration provides eight fully isolated, independently controlled 2.5 A digital output channels, enabling evaluation of compact, high-density industrial I/O modules without custom PCB design.

What is the purpose of jumper J3, and how does it affect operation?

J3 configures the input voltage range: closed (default) limits operation to 8–33 V; open extends the range up to 60 V by bypassing the onboard LDO and routing raw supply directly to the IPS2050H V_CC pins. This allows direct connection to higher-voltage industrial DC rails while maintaining full protection and diagnostic functionality.