Synchronous buck regulator IC with 3 A output and wide input voltage range

PWM current mode control provides simple compensation, excellent loop stability and fast transient response

Allegro MicroSystems: The new A8654 from Allegro MicroSystems Europe is a high-output current synchronous buck regulator IC that can produce a 3 A steady-state load current from an input voltage ranging from 4 to 36 V.

The new device integrates low “on” resistance high-side MOSFETs and low-side n-channel MOSFETs, and utilises external compensation to accommodate a wide range of power components. It uses pulse-width modulation (PWM) current mode control to provide simple compensation, excellent loop stability and fast transient response.

The A8654 regulates nominal input voltages from 4 to 36 V, and remains operational even when the input drops as low as 2.6 V. When the input voltage approaches the output voltage, the duty cycle is maximised to maintain the output voltage.

Key features include externally set soft-start time, an external compensation network for power-train optimisation, an “enable” input to enable the output voltage, a “SYNC/FSET” input to synchronise or set the PWM switching frequency, and an “NPOR” output validated by the output voltage.

Protection features include input undervoltage lockout, cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection, “hiccup” mode short-circuit protection, overvoltage protection and thermal shutdown. The A8654 provides open-circuit, adjacent pin short-circuit, and short-to-ground protection at every pin to satisfy the most demanding automotive and non-automotive applications. The maximum junction temperature is 150ºC.

This new buck regulator IC is targeted at the automotive, industrial and instrumentation markets with typical end applications to include infotainment and GPS systems, automobile audio and camera systems, home audio, and industrial systems.

The A8654 is available in a 16-pin eTSSOP package with exposed pad for enhanced thermal dissipation. It is lead (Pb) free, with 100% matt tin lead-frame plating.

About Allegro
Allegro MicroSystems, LLC is a leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance semiconductors. Allegro's innovative solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive market, with additional focus on office automation, industrial, and consumer/communications solutions. Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) with design, applications, and sales support centers located worldwide. Further information about Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com

Allegro MicroSystems Europe, headquartered in Chertsey, United Kingdom, is the European sales and marketing operation, and operates a network of representatives and distributors throughout Europe.  Allegro also has an engineering design centre in Edinburgh in Scotland and an application and marketing centre in Annecy in France.