Semtech Adds New Device to its Portfolio of Notebook Computer Power Management ICsSC1404 controller provides three system voltages, lowers surrounding parts count, and streamlines design of power circuitry Camarillo, California - March 07, 2004 Semtech Corp. (NASDAQ: SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications, portable devices, computers, and industrial equipment, today announced availability of the SC1404, an advanced multi-output voltage PWM (pulse-width modulation) controller developed for leading-edge, notebook and other battery-powered applications. The SC1404’s suite of features combine to simplify designs, reduce component count, and lower overall system costs. The new device also delivers over 95 percent power conversion efficiency—a key benefit for battery-powered systems.
The device’s pair of PWM controllers switch out-of-phase to provide ripple cancellation at the input supply. This reduces input capacitance filtering requirement by as much as one-half compared to competitive in-phase solutions. Alternative solutions with internal compensation typically specify a range of total ESR (equivalent series resistance) to guarantee operational stability, which constrains the amount of output capacitance that can be employed for filtering (to control voltage ripple and transient response). To counteract this restriction, the SC1404 provides designers the ability to externally compensate the control loop. This typically reduces the amount and expense of required output capacitance. Another stability enhancement is Semtech’s proprietary Virtual Current Sense™ technology. This technology provides peak current mode control based on a synthetically generated current sense signal that is an order of magnitude larger than that generated by conventional current sensing schemes. The Virtual Current Sense signal is generated on-chip, eliminating susceptibility to external noise sources. The superior signal-to-noise ratio virtually eliminates the jitter found in most competing fixed-frequency PWMs, which helps reduce development risks by eliminating layout sensitivity in the design. “We are always looking to help our customers reduce cost and development risk, as well as speed up the design cycle,” said Eddie Yeow, Vice President of Semtech’s Portable Products. “The SC1404 reflects our continued commitment to do just that, expanding our portfolio of essential power control ICs for notebook computers and other battery operated systems.” The SC1404 offers several notable features that help maximize battery life in notebook PCs, including:
Complete control is provided over start-up order and timing of the 5V and 3.3V controllers. A RESET output is provided for sequencing other system power supplies. The user can select 200 kHz operation for best efficiency or 300 kHz operation for minimized ripple, fastest transient response, and/or smallest output filter component size. Other features include excellent line (0.08%/V) and load (-0.6%) regulation; over-current, over-voltage, and over-temperature protection; under-voltage lockout; and a 5V linear regulator, capable of delivering up to 50mA in standby mode. The SC1404 is rated for operation over the industrial temperature range of -40 to +85 degrees C. Pricing and AvailabilityThe SC1404 is available now in production quantities and is priced in 1,000-pc quantities at $4.05 for the TSSOP-28 package and $3.95 for the SSOP-28 package. Volume pricing and delivery quotes, as well as evaluation kits and samples are available by contacting Semtech’s sales representatives and distributors or by contacting salesinfo@semtech.com. The SC1404 product datasheet is posted at www.semtech.com. About SemtechSemtech Corporation is a leading supplier of high-quality analog and mixed-signal semiconductor products. The company is dedicated to providing customers with proprietary solutions and breakthrough technology in power management, protection, advanced communications, human interface, and test & measurement products. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, contact Semtech Corp. at 200 Flynn Road, Camarillo, CA 93012-8790; phone (805) 498-2111; email to info@semtech.com; or visit its web site at www.semtech.com. Press ContactTerry Sears, Marketing Communications Manager, Telephone: 805.498.2111 |
The SC1404 accepts DC input supplies ranging from 6V to 30V, making it ideal for use with standard AC adapters or battery packs. The device integrates two, high-efficiency synchronous PWM switching power supply controllers, preset to generate independent 3.3V and 5V supplies. The SC1404 also supplies a 12V, 200mA linear regulated output, to accommodate the power requirements of many legacy notebook and embedded PC designs.
