Abstract: An apparatus and method for significantly reducing the initial set-point error and voltage margining accuracy of a DC/DC converter. The initial set-point error is reduced by utilizing the remote sense lines of a DC/DC converter to sense the voltage from the DC/DC converter that is actually applied to the load. A power supply controller having inputs coupled to the remote sense lines compares the sensed voltage to a precision voltage reference and provides an output voltage to the TRIM input of the DC/DC converter. The apparatus and method may be implemented in a voltage supply margining test set-up to test the functionality of an electronic device while the DC/DC converter supplies a voltage to the device that is at either the upper or lower margin of an acceptable supply voltage range of the device.

Abstract: A multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB) has a plated through hole for receiving a pin of a component. The plated through hole passes through all layers of the PCB and includes a first conductive portion on a first surface of the PCB and a second conductive portion on a second surface of the PCB. At least one layer of the PCB includes a planar conductive material disposed over a planar insulating material. The conductive material surrounds the plated through hole and is separated therefrom by a gap.

Abstract: A printed circuit board (PCB) has at least a first surface. A patterned electrically and thermally conductive layer is disposed on the first surface. A surface mount device (SMD) is disposed on an area of the layer and is attached thereto with solder. Heatsink elements, each including at least one flat surface, are placed by a pick and place assembly robot and permanently attached to the area with solder.