STMicroelectronics introduces highly integrated 1.5A synchronous voltage regulator to simplify energy efficient power conversion design

     STMicroelectronics introduces the L6981 Synchronous Buck Regulator to expand the range of energy efficient power converters with monolithic integrated power components, feedback circuits and safety features to simplify power supply design. The L6981 converter has A rated maximum output current of 1.5A and a typical conversion efficiency of 90% at full load. It is available in two models, respectively optimized for light load efficiency and noise performance.

     The L6981C is designed for low-current applications and uses a pulse jump mode to maximize light-load conversion efficiency and extend battery powered devices' battery life, while the L6981N focuses on optimizing light-load noise performance with a permanent PWM(pulse width modulation) mode and a constant switching frequency to minimize light-load voltage ripple.

     Both products are compatible with 3.5V-38V input voltages for 24V industrial DC bus power supplies, 12V and 24V battery powered devices, HVAC air conditioning power supplies, distributed smart nodes, smart sensors and alway on applications. By using an external resistor, the output voltage is adjustable from 0.85V to the input voltage value.

     On-chip features include high-low edge NMOS power transistors, feedback loop compensation, overvoltage protection, thermal protection, as well as soft start circuits and enable pins. The soft start circuit can limit the inrush current and ensure the constant rise rate of output voltage. The enable pin allows the power on/power off sequence and allows the synchronous clock signal to be applied to the L6981N low noise converter. The L6981 is included in ST's 10-year product life plan with a long-term commitment to supply.