Buck converter is hyper-efficient at light loads

The MIC23050 step-down converter from Micrel achieves outstanding light-load efficiency by using Micrel’s unique Hyper Light Load™ switching scheme to minimise standby current.

Hyper Light Load technology achieves significant energy savings without reducing control speed. This allows a small output capacitor to absorb the load transient as the powered device moves from light load to full load.

The MIC23050 has a very low typical quiescent current draw of 20µA and can achieve typical efficiency of over 93%. There is also an ultra-lowpower shutdown mode, allowing designers to minimise power consumption throughout a wide range of operating conditions.

The switching frequency of 4MHz allows operation with a miniature inductor from 0.47µH to 1.5µH. This combines with the device’s compact, 2mm x 2mm x 0.85mm MLF® package and a small output capacitor to realise the entire circuit within a sub-1mm profile.

The MIC23050 is available in a range of fixed-output versions from 0.72V to 2.5V, and is capable of supplying up to 500mA guaranteed maximum output current.

 

FEATURES Input voltage range: 2.7V to 5.5V Low output-voltage ripple: 25mVpp in Hyper Light Load mode 3mVpp in full PWM mode Fully-integrated MOSFET switches Output current guaranteed up to 500mA

APPLICATIONS USB Powered Devices (PDs) WiFi, WiMax or WiBro modules Handheld devices Wireless LAN cards GPS systems

 

 

Micrel MIC23050 Step-Down Converter