1. Overview

Evaluation boards (EVBs) for DC/DC and AC/DC switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) are specialized hardware platforms designed to demonstrate and validate the performance of power management integrated circuits (PMICs) and power modules. These boards enable engineers to assess critical parameters such as efficiency, thermal behavior, and dynamic response before integrating power solutions into end systems. With global demand for energy-efficient electronics growing, SMPS evaluation boards play a vital role in accelerating the development of power systems for applications ranging from consumer devices to industrial machinery.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

3. Structure and Components

Typical SMPS evaluation boards consist of: - PCB substrate with 2-10 layers for thermal management - Power stage components: MOSFETs, IGBTs, or wide-bandgap devices - Control circuitry: PWM controllers, gate drivers - Input/Output interfaces: Screw terminals, barrel connectors - Measurement points for voltage/current waveforms - Thermal vias and heatsinks for power dissipation

4. Key Technical Specifications

5. Application Fields

• Industrial: PLCs, motor drives, test equipment
• Consumer: Laptop adapters, smart home devices
• Automotive: On-board chargers (OBC), ADAS systems
• Medical: Patient monitors, imaging equipment
• Renewables: Solar inverters, energy storage systems

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations include: - Matching input/output requirements to application needs - Isolation requirements for safety-critical systems - Availability of design files and software tools - Compliance with standards (e.g., IEC 61558 for medical) - Cost vs. performance trade-offs - Thermal management capabilities

8. Industry Trends

Emerging trends include: - Adoption of GaN/SiC devices enabling >95% efficiency - Integration of digital control via PMBus interfaces - Development of ultra-high-density converters (>100W/cm ) - Emphasis on low EMI designs for automotive applications - Cloud-connected evaluation platforms for remote testing