Buck convertor integrates low noise LDO

The new NCP1526 DC/DC buck convertor with integrated low noise LDO is a single-device solution that supports multimedia functions

The new NCP1526 DC/DC buck convertor with integrated low noise LDO is a single-device solution that supports multimedia functions such as mobile TV on cellular phones ON Semiconductor has introduced the NCP1526.

This high efficiency synchronous DC/DC buck (step-down) convertor features an integrated low noise LDO.

Offered in a unique 0.55 mm ultra-thin DFN package, it is ideal for portable applications.

The device is designed to power an application microprocessor in multimedia portable devices such as portable media players (PMP), MP3 players and either DMB or DVB-H mobile TV chipsets in cellular phones.

This new NCP1526 integrated buck convertor accepts input voltage from 2.7 to 5.2V, and features a 3.0MHz buck convertor that supplies a fixed output voltage with current capability of 400mA.

The NCP1526 delivers fast transient response, making the convertor ideal to power the digital core of a portable microprocessor.

The device's integrated LDO provides a 150mA current capability and its low noise characteristic enables it to power radio frequency (RF) sensitive analogue circuitry.

Adding new functions to portable products requires the power device to have a small footprint as well as a thin profile.

The high frequency oscillator in the NCP1526 convertor dramatically reduces the size of external components.

In fact, a very small surface mount inductor of value between 1 to 4.7uH is recommended.

The device's integrated synchronous rectifier maximises efficiency and minimises solution part count.

The integrated regulators are packaged in a footprint of only 3 x 3mm, thus saving 50 percent of board space compared to a two-chip solution.

To ensure optimal component size and safe operation, value added features like soft-start, cycle-by-cycle current limiting, and thermal shutdown protection have also been integrated.

"The NCP1526 is the first integrated convertor on the market that is housed in an ultra thin 0.55 mm UDFN package, which is thinner than a flip-chip package and fits nicely into a slim portable design", said Marie Capron, ON Semiconductor's director of Low Voltage Power Management products.

"It allows designers to differentiate their products by adding an extra application processor anytime, without waiting for the upgrade of the power management unit".

"In the fast-turning portable market, this design flexibility helps reduce board re-design time and enables manufacturers to get their new, slim models with extra functions to the market faster than their competitors".

The NCP1526 offers a fixed output of 1.2 V from the convertor and 2.8 V from the LDO.

Other output voltage options are available upon request.

The device is offered in a Pb-free, 3 x 3 mm x 0.55 mm ultra-thin DFN-10 package.

It is priced at $0.90 per unit in 3000-unit quantities.

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