ABLiC Introduces Automotive Step-Down Regulators for Enhanced Efficiency

ABLIC, the analogue IC subsidiary of MinebeaMitsumi, has introduced a new series of automotive step-down switching regulators. The S-19954/5 series is a compact regulator that operates at 5.5V with a 1A output. It is housed in an HSNT-8(1616)B package, which is the industry's smallest package at just 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.41mm.

Unlike conventional switching regulators that require multiple external components, the S-19954/5 series features an integrated feedback resistance circuit and phase compensation circuit to set the output voltage. This allows for the configuration of an application circuit using just one small coil and two capacitors. As a result, the S-19954/5 series claims the industry's smallest mounting area, reducing it by 45% compared to conventional products. This downsizing contributes to the overall reduction in size of camera modules.

In terms of safety, the S-19954/5 series is equipped with a power good function that monitors the output voltage of the IC. If the output voltage deviates from the specified range, the function raises an error flag to notify the microcontroller, improving the overall system safety.

The S-19954/5 series is also PPAP (Production Part Approval Process) capable and planned for compliance with Grade 1 of the AEC-Q100 (Automotive Electronics Council) quality standard for automotive ICs.

Major Features

1. Features the industry's smallest ultra-compact package

The S-19954/5 series operates at 5.5V with a 1A output and is housed in the industry's smallest HSNT-8(1616)B package, measuring just 1.6 x 1.6 x 0.41mm. This compact size contributes to the downsizing of ECUs, which are increasingly being integrated into vehicles. The series is also available in a gull-wing type HTMSOP-8 package, measuring 2.9 x 4.0 x 0.8mm.

In addition, the S-19954/5 series features an integrated feedback resistance circuit and phase compensation circuit, allowing for the configuration of an application circuit with minimal peripheral components. This reduction in components enables the series to achieve the smallest mounting area in the industry.

2. Power Good function for improved system safety

The S-19954/5 series includes an integrated overcurrent protection circuit, thermal shutdown circuit, and power good function. The power good function monitors the output voltage to ensure it stays within the normal range. If the output voltage deviates from the specified range, the function raises an error flag to notify the microcontroller, enhancing the overall system safety.

3. Industry's top-class high efficiency

The S-19954/5 series boasts an efficiency conversion of 95% at an input voltage of 4V and an output voltage of 3.3V. This high efficiency contributes to the overall performance and reliability of the regulators.

4. Selectable PWM control or PWM/PFM control

The series offers two options: PWM control (S-19954 series) or PWM/PFM switching control (S-19955 series). The S-19955 series features a proprietary PWM/PFM switching technology with PFM control, which delivers a constant voltage output from VOUT without excessive ripple voltage.

Major Specifications

• Input voltage: 2.7 to 5.5V
• Output voltage: 0.8 to 3.3V
• Output current: 1A
• VOUT pin voltage accuracy: ±1.5% (Tj = -40℃ to +125℃)
• Efficiency: 95% max.
• Oscillation frequency: 2.25MHz typ.
• Overcurrent protection function: 1.75A (pulse-by-pulse method)
• Thermal shutdown function: 170°C detection temperature
• Short-circuit protection function: selectable either Hiccup control or latch control
• 100% duty cycle operation
• Output discharge function: "available" or "unavailable" can be selected
• Power Good function: Nch open-drain output
• Soft-start function: 0.35ms typ.
• Under voltage lockout function (UVLO): 2.43V, typ.
• Operation temperature range: Ta = -40°C to +125°C
• Lead-free (Sn 100%), halogen-free
• AEC-Q100 in process