Power ICs Deliver Dynamic Voltage Scaling

Controlled via a digital interface, the LP3971 power manager and LM3370 dual-channel, step-down dc/dc converter feature a digital I²C interface that allows users to customize specifications such as output voltage and switching modes. Both devices include buck regulators that provide more than 90% efficiency over the entire load current range. Power consumption is minimized through a dynamic voltage-scaling feature that enables the variation of output voltages in real time to match workloads and clock frequencies of the corresponding processors. The LP3971 PMU integrates three 1.6A programmable buck converters and six programmable LDOs and is available in a 40-pin LLP measuring 5 mm x 5 mm x 0.8 mm. In a 4 mm x 5mm x 0.8 mm, 16-pin LLP, the LM3370 supplies a 600-mA load per channel while operating with a quiescent current of 16 µA per channel in PFM mode. Prices for the LP3971 and LM3370 are $4 and $2.10 each/1,000, respectively. NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR CORP., Santa Clara, CA. (800) 272-9959.