Power Manager Drives Automotive Multimedia Networking

Integrating both power-supply and MOST-compliant power management for automotive multimedia networks, the L5961 power manager operates with SMSC's MOST network processors. It integrates a power supply, MOST-compliant power-management control logic, plus diagnostic and system monitoring functions. Forming a chipset with an SMSC network processor, the device serves as a building block in any MOST network node and promises independence from individual applications connected to the network. Post validation, the chipset fits any MOST application without requiring redesign and revalidation. Other features of the power manager chip include a 5V or 3.3V, 650 mA dc/dc converter, two voltage regulators, a diagnostic transceiver for the network physical layer, and three battery detectors for voltage monitoring. Available by the third quarter in PowerSSO36 or PowerSO36 packages, samples of the L5961 are available now. Production pricing is $3 each/1,000. STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.