PWM controller cuts the size of POL convertors

A 600kHz single-phase synchronous buck PWM controller IC is designed for high-density 10A nonisolated point-of-load regulators.

International Rectifier has introduced the IR3624, a 600kHz single-phase synchronous buck PWM controller IC designed for high-density 10A nonisolated point-of-load (POL) regulators.

The 600kHz switching frequency enables the use of a reduced footprint inductor and fewer output capacitors, saving board area.

For example, when the new IR3624 is used with a pair of IR's small can DirectFET HEXFET MOSFETs, such as the IRF6623 and IRF66636, a complete 10A regulator can be made to fit into 200mm2 of board space.

The combination of the IR3624 with two small-can DirectFET MOSFETs allows designers to achieve twice the power density of previous solutions by reducing solution footprint by 45%.

For system robustness, the IR3624 features integrated thermal shutdown and programmable overcurrent limit protection.

The IR3624 includes a 0.6V voltage reference, which allows a single POL regulator to support a wide variety of applications from ultra-low-voltage DSPs to legacy 5V logic.

For applications below 5A, even higher density can be achieved by using one SO-8 dual N-channel HEXFET MOSFET such as the IRF8910 to replace the two stand-alone MOSFETs and further shrink the board area to within 150mm2.

To meet the tracking requirements of the latest ASICs and FPGAs during startup, the IR3624 can start up with a prebiased output voltage without discharging the output.

This feature simplifies regulator design for both the core and I/O voltages.

Undervoltage lockout and programmable soft start features further help to limit inrush currents and ensure proper power up of the regulator.

The devices are lead-free and are compliant with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive.

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