Mixed-Signal Buck Controller Addresses VR11.x Designs

Employing digital intelligence to reduce component counts and improve efficiency, the CHL8100 digital mixed-signal, multi-phase buck converter offers complete support for core-voltage and load requirements of Intel's VR11.x processors. The device delivers up to 150A and allows users to digitally configure the switching frequency of each phase from 200 kHz to 1 MHz. Storing device parameters in embedded non-volatile memory, designers can optimize their designs without changing external components. Enabling a complete voltage regulator solution, the CHL teams up with the CHL8500, a high frequency dual MOSFET gate driver that supports switching frequencies up to 1 MHz. Each driver is capable of driving at least a 3 nF load with a 3A sink current. A variable adaptive non-overlap control helps minimize diode conduction time and prevents both high- and low-side MOSFETs from conducting. The CHL8500 also features a tri-level PWM input that boosts converter transient response by enabling or disabling both driver outputs in less than 30 ns without requiring a dedicated disable pin or hold-off time. Prices for the CHL8100 and CHL8500 are $1.49 and $0.39 each/1,000, respectively. CHIL SEMICONDUCTOR CORP., Tewksbury, MA. (978) 640-0011.