15-A Multiphase DC-DC for “Octa-Core” Processors
Texas Instruments, Inc. (TI) introduced a 15-A, multiphase step-down converter claimed to be the industry's smallest, that meets power requirements of leading-edge quad-core processors and octa-core processors to extend battery run-time in smartphones and tablets. The new LP8755 achieves a 70 mm2 total solution size, and supports up to 15 A from a 2.5-V to 5-V input with 90 percent efficiency.
The LP8755 converter with integrated FETs uses two I2C interfaces to manage dynamic voltage scaling, and features an automatic phase-adding and shedding technique to maintain the highest level of efficiency across a wide output current. During light load operation, the regulator enters a low-power mode as low as 10 uA (Iq) per converter core for maximum efficiency.
Features and benefits of LP8755: Supports high-power processors: The multiphase device supports 15-A load current, small voltage ripple and high transient response to power most quad-core and octa-core processors. High efficiency and performance: Maintains high efficiency and thermal dissipation across the current load, while supporting a low input voltage and a dynamically adjustable output of 0.6 V to 1.67 V with 10-mV steps. Smallest, thinnest solution: The converter comes in a 2.9-mm by 3.0-mm by 0.4-mm package, achieves a 70-mm2 solution size and allows for the use of smaller capacitors and inductors.
The new LP8755 multiphase converter is available now in volume production through TI and its worldwide network of authorized distributors. It comes in a 48-ball, 2.9-mm by 3.0-mm by 0.4-mm package at a suggested resale price of US$2.25 each in 1,000-unit quantities. Designers can order the new LP8755EVM evaluation module to get started on multiphase-based designs.
