Date: 24/09/2010
DC/DC converter from Semtech is as simple as LDO
Semtech has announced a new switching regulator device, a buck type DC/DC converter with an integrated inductor in a tiny, 2.5 x 3 x 1mm package. The new SC202 is a synchronous step-down regulator with 3.5MHz PWM switching frequency, 500mA output current and efficiency up to 94%.
SC202 offers the on-chip loop compensation and a programmable output voltage to eliminate the need for external stability control components and programming resistors. This device with a footprint of less than 14mm2 is touted as an LDO regulator alternative.
SC202 requires two external capacitors, one for input decoupling and one for output filtering. SC202 maintains high efficiency during light loads via an automatic power-save (PSAVE) feature that reduces standby (quiescent) current to 38ľA (typ.). It also features a low, 1ľA (typ.) shutdown current and better transient response.
"By integrating the inductor, the SC202 enables designers to easily replace linear regulators with a more efficient switching regulator," said Athar Zaidi, Director of Marketing in Semtech's Power Management Group. "For customers already using switching regulators, it simplifies board layout and provides an easier-to-use, more integrated alternative. In both cases it is an extremely small, simple and cost-effective power management solution."
The SC202 operates from inputs of 2.9V to 5.5V and provides 15 pin-programmable output voltages from 0.8V to 3.3V, covering all the typical core and I/O voltage rails with one device. It also offers full protection features, including internal soft start to minimize inrush current and better manage overall system power drain; input under-voltage lockout; output over-voltage and current-limit protection; over-temperature protection; and floating programming pin protection.
SC202 is suggested as an ideal solution for low voltage point-of-load (POL) regulation applications and for the next-generation of small, super lightweight, extended battery-life handheld devices.
List of suggested applications:
Cable Modem: Companion Function Chip
Cell Phone: Camera Power, CPU, Digital Control, Direct Video Broadcast, DSP, External Memory, Mixed Signal
Digital Camera: External Memory, Support Function IC, System Controller & MCE
DSL Modem: Ethernet MAC/PHY, Micro Controller
MP3 Player: Audio DSP, System Controller & MCE; External Memory Interface; Memory; Support Function IC, Touchpad/User Input Device
Notebook PC: Graphics Memory Controller, Peripheral Power
Router and Switch: Micro Controller
Set Top Box: Switching Regulators
Wireless Base Station: Low Current Power
Wireless Node B: Low Current Power
Price: 0.84 each in 3,000-piece lots
Availability: Now in volumes