The latest 6A synchronous, buck (step-down) regulator by way of Intersil Corp. delivers efficiency up to 97% and switching frequency up to 4MHz. The combination of features and compact size suits the ISL8016 for applications such as industrial automation, communications infrastructure equipment, consumer electronics, and instrumentation.
Displaying good efficiency across its load range, the device offers automatic PFM mode and operation down to 2.7V to further improve efficiency. It also extends battery life, leading to improved “Energy-Star” ratings. Efficiencies can remain flat over the full load range, reaching as high as 97%. Moreover, because the ISL8016 switches at frequencies up to 4MHz, it enables a smaller overall solution size by also allowing designers to use smaller external components (in addition to its compact package).
The regulator integrates two low on-resistance MOSFETs; users can adjust operating frequency from 500kHz to 4MHz. For applications requiring minimum external components, there’s a default 1MHz operation, a fixed internal 1ms soft start, and internal compensation. It accepts a single 2.7V to 5.5V input and can operate at 100% duty cycle, making it possible to program a wide range of output voltages from 0.6V to VIN. Fixed output versions between 1.2V and 3.3V are available, too, further simplifying design and allowing for even smaller footprint solutions.
The ISL8016 supports current-sharing with phase interleaving, which allows designers to provide multiples of 6A output current with reduced VOUT ripple. For applications requiring less than 6A, reduced current limit settings enable the use of smaller inductors.