ST buck converter offers over 90% efficiency
STMicroelectronics has announced the DCP3601, a 3.3V-to-36V input, 1A output miniature monolithic buck converter for powering low-voltage loads in applications such as smart meters, domestic appliances, and industrial 24V conversion.
The power switches and compensation are built-in, requiring only six components to complete the circuit, including the inductor, bootstrap and filter capacitors, and feedback resistors for setting the output voltage.
Synchronous rectification and a fixed switching frequency of 1MHz ensure high efficiency across the load range and under all operating conditions, reaching 91 percent at 600mA with 12V input and 5V output.
Flexibility comes from the selection of different variants, according to ST, with a choice of forced-PWM operation for noise-sensitive applications or pulse-skipping at light load for minimal power consumption.
Additionally, both the low-noise and low-consumption variants are available with frequency dithering to reduce noise power at the 1MHz switching frequency. All variants have extremely low quiescent current of 110µA and an Enable pin that allows turning off the converter with a dedicated signal to maximize power savings.
Designers can quickly start new projects with the DCP3601 using the dedicated evaluation board, STEVAL-3601CV1. The board comes with screw terminals and headers and is ready to power-up out of the box, demonstrating an efficient circuit design with a compact footprint.
First in the new buck-converter product family that will expand throughout the year, the DCP3601 is included in ST’s 10-year longevity program that ensures long-term access to components and support.
Packaged as a 3mm x 1.6mm SOT23 6-lead device, the single-chip buck converter is priced from $0.48 for orders of 1000 pieces.
