3-MHz DC/DC Converters Squeeze Into Portables

Specifying a switching frequency of 3 MHz and efficiencies up to 93% while requiring just 2.1 mm x 1.1 mm x 0.6 mm of board space, the NCP1523 and NCP1523B synchronous step-down dc/dc converters are formidable candidates for ever-shrinking portable products. The high switching frequency allows for the use of a smaller inductor, down to 1 µH. The NCP1523 features automatic switching of PWM/PFM modes, while the NCP1523B provides a PWM-only mode. Both devices offer an adjustable output voltage from 0.9V to 3.3V. Available in 8-pin flip-chip packages, price for either converter is $0.75 each/1,000. ON SEMICONDUCTOR, Phoenix, AZ. (800) 282-9855.