Dual-Output, Non-Isolated DC-DC Converter ICs

May 26, 2005

What are the available dual-output converter topologies?

Dual-output, nonisolated dc-dc converter ICs include switch-mode, lowdropout (LDO), LDO plus switch-mode, and charge pump types. These ICs are non-isolated converters because there is no dc voltage isolation between the input and output. In contrast, isolated converters employ a transformer to provide I/O isolation.

What types of dual switch-mode converter ICs are available?

In a single package, these switch-mode converter ICs come with one buck and one boost, two buck converters, and two boost converters. Dual switch-mode converter ICs offer higher efficiencies than the other converter topologies.

What are the typical applications for dual switchmode dc-dc converters?

These converters are space-efficient, so their primary applications include battery-based handheld devices.

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About the Author

Sam Davis 2

Sam Davis was the editor-in-chief of Power Electronics Technology magazine and website that is now part of Electronic Design. He has 18 years experience in electronic engineering design and management, six years in public relations and 25 years as a trade press editor. He holds a BSEE from Case-Western Reserve University, and did graduate work at the same school and UCLA. Sam was the editor for PCIM, the predecessor to Power Electronics Technology, from 1984 to 2004. His engineering experience includes circuit and system design for Litton Systems, Bunker-Ramo, Rocketdyne, and Clevite Corporation. Design tasks included analog circuits, display systems, power supplies, underwater ordnance systems, and test systems. He also served as a program manager for a Litton Systems Navy program.

Sam is the author of Computer Data Displays, a book published by Prentice-Hall in the U.S. and Japan in 1969. He also authored the book Managing Electric Vehicle Power. He is also a recipient of the Jesse Neal Award for trade press editorial excellence, and has one patent for naval ship construction that simplifies electronic system integration.

You can also check out additional articles on his other author page.