May 2003 Archives of Breaking News

5/1/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

LVR Series of
PolySwitch™ Devices

The LVR Series of PolySwitch® resettable devices from Raychem Circuit Protection, a unit of Tyco Electronics, is designed for use in line voltage applications. The polymeric positive temperature coefficient (PPTC) devices are rated at 240Vac, permitting maximum voltages of up to 265Vac, and are available in hold currents from 50mA to 400mA. In addition, they help protect against both overcurrent and overtemperature faults on the primary side of power supplies and transformers.

The LVR device was developed to help prevent damage to control boards and components by limiting current in the event of a load-side short-circuit or overdraw, or improper incoming voltage. Unlike a single-shot current fuse, the resettable LVR device can help protect against conditions where faults may cause a rise in temperature with only a slight increase in current draw. When installed on the primary side of the circuit, in proximity to potential heat-generating components such as magnetics, FETs, or power resistors, the LVR device can help provide both overcurrent and overtemperature protection with a single installed component.

The properties of the LVR device can provide distinct benefits in transformer protection designs. Its surface temperature in the high resistance state is well within the range of most transformer winding insulation ratings. This low temperature operation, combined with small size, low resistance and good thermal shock tolerance, allow it to be mounted in direct contact with the transformer windings for a faster response to potential fault conditions.

For more information, visit www.circuitprotection.com.

5/5/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

TI Unveils Step-Down DC-DC Controllers

Expanding its TPS40K™ series of power-efficient dc-dc controllers, Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) recently announced two families of synchronous step-down, voltage-mode, dc-dc controllers with the capability of stepping down input voltage ranges from 8V to 40V and 10V to 55V. They provide added flexibility, power efficiency and ease of use for designers of high-density, 12V, 24V and higher bus power supplies for networking, telecom, wireless base stations, and computer server applications.

TI's new TPS4005x and TPS4006x lines of buck dc-dc controllers offer various user-programmable functions and features to enhance flexibility of design, including closed-loop soft-start, undervoltage lockouts (UVLO), operating frequency, voltage feed-forward, and high-side current limit. Programmable, fixed operating frequencies of up to 1 MHz are available with source and source/sink current options.

Available now, the devices supply output voltages down to 0.7 V with a precision reference of better than 1%. The TPS4005x family steps down input voltages ranging from 8V to 40V, and drives external N-channel high-side and synchronous rectifier MOSFET output transistors, providing flexibility and efficiency for power supply design. The TPS4006x family can handle input voltages ranging from 10V to 55V by driving an external P-channel MOSFET on the high side, while driving an external N-channel MOSFET for the synchronous switch. In addition, the devices' gate drive logic incorporates anti-cross conduction circuitry to prevent simultaneous high-side and synchronous rectification.

For more information, visit www.ti.com.

5/5/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Sola/Hevi-Duty Introduces Next-Generation Single-Phase Power Supplies

Sola/Hevi-Duty’s smaller, more cost-effective SDN-P family of single-phase 24Vdc DIN Rail power supplies adds value and performance to its broad range of power supplies. Housed in a rugged, compact casing, SDN power supplies provide reliable dc power for industrial process controls, machine tools or other equipment exposed to a harsh factory floor environment, including Class 1, Div. 2 hazardous locations and DeviceNetTM applications. They are available in 2.5A to 20A to fit most any application, with efficiencies up to 90% typical.

This next generation meets SEMI F47 Sag Immunity standards to guard against electrical disturbances of the mains, and offers built-in Power Factor Correction to reduce power losses. Contained within a space-saving, high-density package, other design innovations include auto select 115/230Vac nominal voltage, 50/60 Hz input, along with a rugged snap-on metal mounting clip, a dc OK signal, and adjustable output voltage.

For more information, visit www.solaheviduty.com.

5/5/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Surface-Mount 5A Schottky Rectifier

Central Semiconductor Corp.’s new CZSH5-40 is the smallest available surface-mount 5A Power Schottky Rectifier packaged in the small signal SOT-223 case. The single 5A, 40V chip is manufactured by the epitaxial planar process and designed to meet high current dc-dc or ac-dc rectification applications for all types of commercial, industrial, entertainment, computer, and automotive products.

It provides a lower (1.7 mm) profile than the standard DPAK (2.4 mm) or SMC (2.6 mm) packages. It also uses approximately 30% less board space than an equivalent device in a DPAK, and is ideal for half-brick and quarter-brick power supply designs where board space and component height are critical.

For more information, visit www.centralsemi.com.

5/6/2003

By Ashok Bindra, Editor, PETech

Ultra-fast Transient, Isolated Converter Powers Itanium2 Processor

To extend its reach into the computer arena, Hudson, Mass.-based dc-dc converter maker SynQor has readied a high efficiency power Pod converter to power Intel’s Itanium2 processor. Combining advanced high-efficiency synchronous rectifier topology with planar magnetics and surface-mount technology, the HyperQor module is designed to meet the ultra-fast transient response demanded by the 64-bit enterprise-class processors. It also delivers up to 130W of power for systems using a 48V distribution bus. The peak output voltage response to a load transient of 75A-100A-75A is only 60 mV at a slew rate of 100 A/µs. According to SynQor, the HyperQor module can recover to within ±1.5% of output voltage in less than 4 µs. In fact, SynQor says the HyperQor meets or exceeds Intel specifications for 48 VIN power Pod.

Implementing an ultralow inductance output connector for maximum power delivery, the power Pod offers full-load efficiency of 87% at 1.5V with 87A at 25° It drops to 83% at 1.1V output voltage and 100A load current. Because the efficiency is high and the design employs baseplate for thermal management, the power derating is minimal at high ambient temperatures. Although, the present HyperQor module is a baseplated unit with optional heat sinking in severe thermal environments, SynQor plans to release an open frame version for applications that require a lower profile.

In addition, the power Pod module uses non-electrolytic capacitors to enhance the reliability of the product. It provides a number of protection features, including 500V input-output isolation, input undervoltage lockout, resettable input fuse, output current limit, short circuit, thermal shutdown, connector fault, and an active output crowbar. On the control end, it offers 5-bit VID programmable output, output enable signal, and power good signal.

The output voltage is programmable using 5 data bits, offering values from 0.9Vdc to 1.7Vdc in 32 discrete steps. The input range for the module is 43.2V to 52.8V. It comes in a standard form factor measuring 125 mm x 71 mm x 27.1 mm. According to the manufacturer, the part is now in production. Pricing starts at $130 in OEM quantities.

For more information, visit www.synqor.com.

5/15/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

80A Shunt for Bus Bar or PCB Mount

80A Shunt for Bus Bar or PCB MountIsotek Corp.'s unique 80A precision shunt is for use in energy meters, battery management, automotive and welding applications. The BVD is a 500mΩ shunt constructed by electron beam welding copper/manganin/copper alloys.

Rated at 3W at 95°, the BVD can withstand 100W pulse loads. It’s available with holes for mounting screws or press fit M5 studs. Mounting can be either reflow solder on a pcb, welded or bolted to a copper bus bar.

To download a data sheet go to www.isotekcorp.com, or email [email protected]

All other inquiries 1-800-LOW-OHMS.

5/18/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Opens New Headquarters and Factory

Mitsubishi Electric Power Products Inc. (MEPPI) recently opened a new 50,000-sq ft headquarters and engineering office and factory in Warrendale, Pa. The new headquarters and factory brings Mitsubishi Electric's investment in Warrendale to more than $20 million.

Just a short walk from MEPPI's original buildings, the new facility occupies a 12-acre site, which will allow a doubling of its office and factory size in the future. It accommodates the MEPPI corporate staff, engineering, and administrative personnel of the company's project businesses: Substations, Power Systems, Ozone Water Treatment Systems, Industrial Systems, and Rail Transportation. It also houses training facilities, meeting rooms, a video conferencing center, cafeteria, and a fitness center, which will be available to all company employees. The factory will be used for manufacturing, testing, and servicing products for the company's project businesses. With the original offices and factory dedicated to MEPPI's growing circuit breaker manufacturing operation, MEPPI now has an almost 20-acre campus with roughly 150,000 sq ft of facilities.

For more information, visit www.meppi.com.

5/18/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Minebea to Withdraw from Power Supply Industry

Minebea Co. Ltd. (Minebea), parent company to NMB Technologies Corp. (NMB), has announced its withdrawal from the power supply industry by the end of 2003.

In response to rapid changes in the business environment, Minebea is focusing all efforts and resources on the company's core business areas of electro-mechanical components (ball bearings, cooling devices, and motors), keyboards, and audio speaker components.

Minebea will continue to maximize its competitive advantage of ultraprecision machining and mass production technologies in the manufacturing industry. The company will also continue to provide Global Product and Account support to address the technical and operational needs of each customer.

"Minebea anticipates product demand for high-precision electro-mechanical components to grow and it is vital to the company to be in a position to address this market change effectively," said Marty Yamanaka, president of NMB Technologies Corp. "This recent organizational change gives us the opportunity to focus on our core business areas and respond quickly to future market demands in those areas. Minebea remains committed to providing our customers with global resources, and quality products and processes to ensure mutual success in today's business environment."

For more information, visit www.minebea.co.jp.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Zero Emission Vehicle Undergoes Road Tests

Electrovaya Inc. recently took part in the Tour De Sol car rally and further tested its prototype Zero Emission Vehicle, Maya 100. The test results were encouraging, with excellent performance from the dc motor, drive train, and onboard dc power source, including Electrovaya's patented lithium ion Superpolymer® battery.

Acceleration of the Maya 100 was good and tested successfully the novel concept (patent pending) of an integrated systems approach to thermal management, acceleration, hill climbing, and top speed. The weight of the vehicle was well balanced, and the vehicle passed tests on acceleration, hill climbing, speed, slalom, braking distance, and other mechanical and performance tests. The vehicle later developed a major electrical malfunction, and was pulled out of the Tour de Sol. Some additional modifications on the vehicle are being carried out, and further road tests will resume shortly.

For more information, visit www.electrovaya.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Anadigm Names New Marketing VP

Brian Hodges, a 12-year veteran of the semiconductor industry and former executive at Intersil Corp. recently joined Anadigm Inc. as vice president of worldwide marketing.

Hodges has held a variety of sales and marketing positions in the semiconductor industry. Most recently as Intersil's director of worldwide sales, major accounts, Mr. Hodges led the team that grew market share for the company's power management IC business to the No. 1 position for the world motherboard market. As product line director for signal processing and standard analog ICs at Harris Semiconductor, he transformed the company's analog IC product line into its most profitable operation.

“Brian's experience in identifying and capitalizing on new analog markets will play a key role in Anadigm's aggressive growth strategy, which is focused on penetrating high-volume opportunities for our field programmable analog arrays,” said William McLean, Anadigm president and CEO. “His customer-centric approach fully complements our commitment to application-driven innovation and will help us to accelerate the creation of products optimized to the needs of high-growth markets.”

For more information, visit www.anadigm.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Flame-Retardant Heat-Shrinkable Tube

Tyco Electronics’ Raychem brand FL2500 heat-shrinkable tubing is a flame-retardant, adhesive-lined polyolefin tube designed to seal and insulate electrical splices, fusible links, and other in-line electrical/electronic components. It’s suitable for use in automotive wiring harnesses and other wiring and harnessing applications in many harsh environments or applications that require robust environmental sealing and flame-retardant performance.

The economical and effective sealing attributes of FL2500 heat-shrinkable tubing provide sealing from moisture, oils, and other chemicals. As the tube is heated to it's full recovery temperature of 135°C, the polyolefin tube shrinks and the adhesive lining melts, flowing into all voids of the area being sealed.

Available in four diameter sizes ranging from 7.62 mm to 17.79 mm and shrink at a nominal 4:1 ratio, the FL2500 is black and comes in standard cut lengths of 27 mm, 50 mm, 65 mm and 1220 mm.

For more information, call Tyco Electronics’ technical support center at 1-800-522-6752, email [email protected] or visit www.tycoelectronics.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Custom Inductance Values

The new DR340-X Series shielded SMD inductor from Datatronic features a low seated profile at 0.319 in. (3.4 mm) to 0.315 in. (8.0 mm) above the circuit board and can operate very effectively over the temperature range of –40°C to 85°C.

These inductors are ideally suited for applications where board space is very tight and reliable performance is critical. They are perfect for low profile, high performance dc-dc converters and switch mode power supplies used to power telecommunications systems, such as servers, network switches and routers, as well as industrial controls and medical instrumentation. Custom inductance values are also available for maximum flexibility.

The DR340-X Series offers a shielded design to minimize radiated noise. Key electrical parameters include an inductance of 1.2 µH to 1000 µH, a resistance of 0.007Ω to 1.53Ω maximum and a rated current of 0.40A to 9.8A max.

Miniature in size and robust by design, the ultra compact DR340-1, -2 and –3 Series measures only 0.472 in. (12.0 mm) by 0.472 in. (12.0 mm) with the –1 standing just .315 in. (8.0 mm), the –2 standing 0.177 in. (4.4 mm) and the –3 standing 0.236 in. (4.5 mm) max high. The DR340-4 Series measures only 0.287 in. (7.3 mm) and stands only 0.139 in. (3.4 mm) max high. The DR340-X is manufactured with UL94V-0 compliant materials.

The DR340-X Series inductors are compatible with high-speed automated pick-and-place assembly and high-temperature soldering equipment. They are available in tube as well as tape-and-reel packaging. Custom designed inductors can be specified to meet unique circuit requirements.

For more information, visit www.datatronics.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

High Input Voltage Step-Down Switching Regulator

Linear Technology’s new LT3431 is a high-voltage constant frequency step-down switching regulator that uses a 3A internal switch. It operates within a VIN range of 5.5V to 60V, and delivers up to 2.75A of continuous output current at voltages as low as 1.25V, making it ideal for telecom, automotive, and industrial applications. Its unique high-voltage architecture enables efficiencies as high as 90% even in low duty cycle applications.

The LT34301 uses a constant 500 kHz switching frequency, keeping external components small. A sync pin allows for external synchronization from 580 kHz to 700 kHz with logic level inputs. It comes in a thermally enhanced TSSOP package that optimizes heat dissipation within a very small, low profile circuit footprint.

The LT3431 utilizes a high efficiency 3A, 0.1Ω switch, with the necessary oscillator, control, and logic circuitry integrated into a single die. Special design techniques and a new high voltage process enable high efficiency over a wide input voltage range while its current mode topology enables fast transient response and excellent loop stability. Patented circuitry maintains peak switch current over the entire duty cycle range. Supply current is only 2.5mA during normal operation, while shutdown current is reduced to 30uA.

For more information, visit www.linear.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Schottky Diodes

International Rectifier’s (IR’s) new 15V and 20V Schottky diodes for server and telecom power systems are tailored for output rectification and output ORing circuits. They have as much as 25% lower forward voltage drop and 14% lower reverse leakage current compared to industry-standard devices, for maximum system efficiency and lower power loss.

The 80CPTN015 is rated at 15V, and housed in the TO-247 package. An improved barrier material enables a maximum junction temperature of 150°C. Compared to typical industry-standard Schottky diodes, IR's new trench Schottky diode offers a 12% reduction in forward voltage drop and 68% lower reverse leakage current. Maximum forward voltage drop is 340 mV, 40A at 125°C. This allows 10% reduction of power dissipation and makes the 80CPTN015 an ideal choice for 5V output rectification when efficiency is of prime importance.

The 80CPT015 is also rated at 15V, and has a typical forward voltage drop of 270 mV at 125°C. The 80CPT015 trench Schottky diode in the TO-247 package offers 20% lower forward voltage drop and 14% lower reverse leakage current compared to a typical Schottky diode, making it one of the best 15V ORing diodes in the industry and the ideal choice for outputs up to 12V.

The 60CTT015 and the 60CTTN015 are 15V devices in the TO-220 package, with a typical voltage drop of 0.28V at 30A and 0.33V at 30A, respectively. The 60CTT015 is targeted toward ORing applications and has a Tjmax of 125°C. 60CTTN015 has a max junction temperature of 150°C. The leakage current of the 60CTTN015 is a very low 250mA at 125°C, making it an ideal candidate for operation up to a Tjmax of 150°C, without any fear of thermal runaway.

The 80CNT020 in the D61 package is rated at 20V, featuring a 240 mV voltage drop at 125°C, which is 25% lower compared to other typical Schottky diodes. The very low forward voltage drop makes the 80CNT020 ideal for high current ORing applications up to 15V.

For more information, visit www.irf.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Infiniband-Compliant Hot Swap Controller

Maxim Integrated Products’ new MAX8533 is the smallest 12V, infiniband-compliant, hot-swap controller and power sequencer currently available. Offering bilevel current protection and overvoltage protection, it resides on a line card and manages the power transfer when the card is inserted or removed from the live-power backplane. The MAX8533's protection features permit reliable, real-time monitoring of blade servers, RAID cards, and network switch or router line cards.

Its adjustable soft-start ramp limits inrush current, which protects the backplane voltage from glitches. It also provides bilevel current protection for overcurrent (OC) and severe overcurrent (SOC) conditions. In the presence of overcurrent conditions, it provides a regulated current output for a programmed time before latching off. In addition, it responds to severe overcurrent or dead short faults within 100 ns.

The MAX8533 also features unique, adjustable overvoltage protection to protect itself and the downstream dc-dc controllers. An absolute maximum rating of 16V allows it to withstand inductive-kickback voltages during board removal. Two enable inputs, EN (logic enable) and LPEN (local-power enable) and a POK (power good) output, provide flexible sequencing.

The MAX8533EUB is available in a 10-pin microMAX package—50% smaller than competing packages—and is specified for the extended-industrial temperature range (-40°C to 85°C).

For more information, visit www.maxim-ic.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Vicor Unveils V*I Chip Bus Converters

Vicor Corp. has introduced the first family of products based on its new V*I Chip ball grid array (BGA) surface-mount (SMD) power component. The new family consists of 48V to 12V Bus Converter Modules (BCM) for conventional Intermediate Bus Architecture (IBA) applications. The V*I Chip BCMs provide breakthrough performance relative to classic brick bus converters at a fraction of the cost.

The V*I Chips (VICs) of Factorized Power, a disruptive technology recently launched by Vicor, can process up to 200W in a small and light power BGA package. VICs are functional building blocks deployed as SMD components to create a flexible factorized power system. Conventional IBA applications are supported by narrow input range VIC models.

The 200W BCM Model B048K120T20 requires only 0.85 in. x 1.26 in. (21.5 mm x 32 mm) of board space— than one-third the board area of intermediate bus converters in quarter-brick style packages. Available in two mounting styles, it has an above-the-board height of only 4 mm (in-board mounting) or 6 mm (on-board mounting). Power density is 800W/in3—five times better than quarter-brick bus converters. And, unlike conventional switching regulator ICs, BCMs do not require external parts to perform their function. The B048K120T10 (rated at 100W) and B048K120T15 (rated at 150W) support lower power applications in the same VIC package.

Efficiency exceeds 96% over a wide load range. The V•I Chip BGA power component is easily cooled through its Junction-to-Case and Junction-to-BGA thermal paths. The 100W B048K120T10 requires no discrete heat sink in a typical application with 200 LFM of 55°C air. The B048L120T20, with its optional integral pin fins, is capable of full load operation at 200W with 300 LFM of 80°C air.

For more information, visit www.vicorpower.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Thin-Film Resistors for Microwave Applications

Vishay Intertechnology Inc. is offering a series of thin-film single-value chip resistors that feature excellent high-frequency response and low shunt capacitance for exceptional performance in hybrid assemblies and microwave and RF circuits.

In addition to dimensions as small as 0.010 in. (0.25 mm) by 0.020 in. (0.5 mm), the Vishay Electro-Films Microwave Resistor series (MIB, MIC, MID, MIF) features a strip-line design that enables the design of higher-performance end products by providing a solution specifically optimized for microwave and RF requirements. Typical applications for new devices include amplifiers, oscillators, attenuators, couplers, and filters.

Devices in the Microwave Resistor series feature a microwave resistance range of 20 Ω to 1 kΩ and an overall resistance range to 20 kΩ. Tight tolerance values down to ±1.0% are available, with TCR values from ±25 ppm/°C to ±200 ppm/°C. These compact resistor chips provide a stray capacitance of less than 0.2 pF.

Vishay Electro-Films Microwave Resistor series devices feature a maximum operating voltage of 100V, a dielectric breakdown voltage of 400V, and 25 mW to 200 mW maximum dc power ratings at 70°C. The high-stability thin-film resistor element is tantalum nitride, which is self-passivating and moisture resistant. These resistors have an operating temperature range of -55°C to 125°C.

The MIB, MIC, MID, and MIF microwave resistor chips are built with an alumina substrate and gold terminations. They can be attached with conductive epoxy, ribbon-bonded, or wire-bonded. Other Vishay devices that are suitable for use with the Microwave Resistor series include wire-bondable capacitor chips, inductor chips, user-trim resistor chips, and TMR multi-value microwave products.

For more information, visit www.vishay.com.

5/19/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

New Family of Standard Amplifiers

Fairchild Semiconductor International’s new family of power efficient CMOS amplifiers is specifically targeted for lower power applications. The LMV321 (single), LMV358 (dual), and LMV324 (quad) amplifiers consume a supply current of 120 microamps maximum at 2.7V and typically only 100 µA at 5V, using 20% less power than competitive devices.

This family of amplifiers also provides rail-to-rail output and offers a supply voltage range of 2.5V to 5.5V (±1.25V to ±2.75V). The LMV321, LMV358 and LMV324 are pin compatible and direct replacements for the LMV3XX family from National Semiconductor, Texas Instruments, and Maxim.

With a gain bandwidth product of 1.4 MHz at 5V and slew rate of 1.5V/µs at 5V, these new CMOS amplifiers provide superior performance in portable applications such as cellular phones, PDAs, DSP interface, portable test equipment, digital still cameras, keyless entry, and MP3 players.

Each amplifier is available in different package types for flexibility in a variety of designs. The single LMV321 is available in a SOT23-5 or SC70-5, the dual LMV358 in an SOIC-8 or MSOP-8, and the quad LMV324 is available in an SOIC-14 or TSSOP-14 package.

For more information, visit www.fairchildsemi.com.

5/20/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

2003 Customer Service Innovation Award

Cherokee International has been named the recipient of Frost & Sullivan’s 2003 Customer Service Innovation Award for the switchmode power supply industry. By following a client-focused approach that includes high levels of customer contact and conferencing with worldwide manufacturing facilities, Cherokee has halved the time it takes to create a prototype design for its clients, thus reducing their time to market. It is this cost-effective yet high level of service that attracted the attention of growth consulting company, Frost & Sullivan.

Frost & Sullivan presents its Customer Service Innovation Award each year to the company best demonstrating excellence in customer service innovation within its industry. The recipient company has developed and implemented customer care systems that set unprecedented standards for customer interaction, timely response, and attention to end-user needs.

For more information, visit www.frost.com.

5/20/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

Quick-Select Power Conversion Guide

Artesyn Technologies Inc. recently published a new short-form guide to its ac-dc and dc-dc power conversion products. Now in its third edition, the 16-page Quick-Select Guide is a reference for electronic developers and system integrators—providing a rapid means of sourcing suitable power sources.

The guide overviews Artesyn’s 300-plus ac-dc and dc-dc standard product range— all of which are available off-the-shelf or with short lead times. This edition sees the introduction of many new options for implementing economic distributed power architectures (DPA). Among the dc-dc products making their debut are intermediate bus converters for DPA that simplify system EMI filtering and design migration to lower IC voltages, numerous non-isolated point-of-load (POL) converters—including dedicated solutions for VRM processors and DDR memory—and eighth- and quarter-bricks that set a new performance benchmark for 48V input converters.

The ac-dc section covers more than 59 high-efficiency switchmode units— spanning a power range of 19.6W to 150W—all featuring a universal input for global use.

For more information, visit www.artesyn.com.

5/21/2003

Edited by PETech Staff

4MHz Synchronous Step-Down Regulator

The LTC3414, a high efficiency, 4MHz synchronous buck regulator uses a constant frequency current mode architecture. It can deliver up to 4A of continuous output current at voltages as low as 0.8V from a thermally enhanced TSSOP-20 package.

It operates from an input voltage of 2.25V to 5.5V, making it ideal for single cell Li-Ion or NiMH batteries, as well as more general purpose fixed rail systems. The LTC3414's switching maximum frequency of 4 MHz allows the utilization of tiny low cost capacitors and inductors with less than 1.5mm profile. High frequency operation eliminates switching noise from critical wireless, and xDSL frequency ranges, making it ideal for xDSL modems, cellular base stations and automotive applications. The LTC3414 integrates internal MOSFET switches with an RDS (ON) of only 0.067 Ohms to deliver efficiencies as high as 95%. It also utilizes low dropout 100% duty cycle operation to allow output voltages equal to VIN. No load quiescent current is only 64uA, and less than1uA in shutdown, making it ideal for applications such as automotive power systems that require ultra-low supply currents. 5/21/2003

By Ashok Bindra, Editor, PETech

Demand for Power Supplies Stimulates Growth

Demand for compact, portable devices—such as cellular phones and laptops—is fueling growth in switch mode power supplies (SMPS), according to a recent report released by market research firm Frost & Sullivan. Its latest study on world SMPS markets reveals this market totaled revenues worth $10.09 billion in 2002 and is poised to expand to $15.64 billion by 2009. “Although the worldwide recession has slowed down investments in the telecommunication and information technology industries, a booming Asia-Pacific market provides fresh impetus to growth,” noted Frost & Sullivan research analyst Vishal Sapru. “The demand for computers, consumer goods, industrial equipment and better telecommunications in these markets are boosting switch mode power supplies,” he added. Companies face the dual challenge of manufacturing low-cost, high-quality products. Given the overcrowded, price-sensitive nature of the market, functionality of design, streamlined processes, and automation are essential to develop a cost-effective product. However, current technological advancements in SMPS products are evolutionary and not revolutionary, said Sapru.

In a separate independent study on world dc power supplies and electronic loads market—a segment of overall power supplies market—the Frost & Sullivan report shows that this sector is moving slowly. It’s not expected to regain momentum before 2004, stated Frost & Sullivan analyst Farah Saeed. “Future drivers include adoption of new wireless applications and recovery of capital spending,” added Saeed. According to new analysis on this market, the report reveals that world dc power supplies and electronic loads market saw total revenues of $289.5 million in 2002, and is projected to reach $377.2 million by 2009.

The world SMPS report shows that the market is moving forward due to more applications emerging and manufacturing advancements taking place. Even though consolidation within the industry continues to strengthen technology bases of the companies to compete aggressively, the report suggests that this consolidation will not damper the influx of newer products into the market. However, customer concerns regarding the support and service for existing products will need to be alleviated. “To dispel doubts, and pave the way for a smooth transition to more cost-effective products, manufacturers will need to enlighten customers and enlist their support regarding the direction of future products,” stated Sapru. Superior service and product customization are increasingly becoming the key differentiators. Improved service can facilitate closer customer relations and the incorporation of critical customer feedback at the inception stage can impact economies of scale positively.

On the dc front, the report expects emerging applications such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) and 3G wireless technologies, as well as development and introduction of 42V and hybrid vehicles, to trigger this market.

For more information visit www.powersupplies.frost.com