18V multi-channel synchronous buck converter

Paul Boughton

Texas Instruments (TI) has introduced a four-channel buck DC/DC converter with PMBus/I2C digital interface for applications in space-constrained equipment that experience high ambient operating temperature without cooling, such as small cell base stations, infotainment and solid state devices.

The TPS65400 dual- or quad-output configurable DC/DC converter integrates eight power MOSFETs and features industry-leading efficiency at up to 95% in the smallest footprint.

The TPS65400 includes four high-current synchronous buck switching regulators with integrated MOSFETs. Each switching converter supplies a 2A or 4A output to efficiently power digital circuits such as the processor, FPGA, ASIC, memory and digital input/output.

Switching frequency for the converter is independently adjustable up to 2.2MHz. The TPS65400, which can be powered from a single-input voltage rail between 4.5V and 18V, supports applications running off a 5V or 12V intermediate power distribution bus.

TPS65400 key features include:

* Flexible power up/down sequencing control increases system reliability;

* Parameter configuration and status monitoring via PMBus enhances system intelligence;

* Dynamic voltage scaling optimises processor performance;

* Phase interleaving reduces input capacitance and ripple;

* Current sharing supports higher output current and enhances design flexibilit;

* Small 48-pin VQFN package measures 7 mm by 7 mm by 0.9 mm.