ST launches monolithic buck converter series for low-voltage loads
STMicroelectronics has developed a monolithic 1A buck converter for low voltage loads that needs just six external components.
This is the first in a series of devices with variants for different controller, 3A supply and automotive qualification.
The power switches and compensation are built into the DCP3601 requiring only six components to complete the circuit, including the inductor, bootstrap and filter capacitors, and feedback resistors for setting the output voltage.
The 3.3V-to-36V input voltage range and 1A output supports applications such as smart meters, domestic appliances, and industrial 24V conversion. Synchronous rectification and a fixed switching frequency of 1MHz ensure high efficiency across the load range and under all operating conditions, reaching 91% at 600mA with 12V input and 5V output.
There are several variants, from forced-PWM operation for noise-sensitive applications to pulse-skipping at light load for minimal power consumption. Both the low-noise and low-consumption variants are available with frequency dithering to reduce noise power at the 1MHz switching frequency and all the variants have extremely low quiescent current of 110µA and an Enable pin that allows turning off the converter with a dedicated signal to maximize power savings.
A dedicated evaluation board, STEVAL-3601CV1 comes with screw terminals and headers and is ready to power-up out of the box, demonstrating an efficient circuit design with a compact footprint.
The DCP3601 is included in ST’s 10-year longevity program that ensures long-term access to components and support. Packaged as a 3mm x 1.6mm SOT23 6-lead device, the single-chip buck converter is priced from $0.48 for orders of 1000 pieces.
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