1-MHz PWM Regulator Lowers Current Draw

Lowering the boom on power consumption, the MIC2203 PWM step-down (buck) regulator draws just 650 µA of supply current and attains efficiencies in excess of 90% across a wide load range. A proprietary gate drive that minimizes switching losses is said to be responsible for the low current draw while switching at a fixed operating frequency of 1 MHz. The device operates with input voltages from 2.3V to 5.5V and delivers an output voltage, adjustable down to 0.5V at 300 mA. Typical applications include 802.11 wireless cards, USB, cell phones, Mini Disk, and MP3 players. Available in 3 mm x 3 mm MLF-10 and MSOP-10 packages, prices are $1.80 and $1.65 each/1,000, respectively. Lead-free options are also available. MICREL INC., San Jose, CA. (408) 944-0970.