Programmable power design tool updated with Arduino

An Arduino board adds support to communicate with Exar evaluation boards. The Arduino platform provides a readily available development environment, enabling engineers to develop code before their own hardware is available.

When using Exar’s universal PMICs, PowerArchitect can be used to set or modify a host of parameters. A GUI enables users to create complex sequencing schemes and monitor and configure supply rails in real time. PowerArchitect specifies nominal input voltage, under-voltage lock out, the clock switching frequency of buck converters, and over temperature, over current and over voltage faults and warnings. The tool features an upgraded wizard which suggests suitable switching frequencies and preferred external components.

In version 5.1, every parameter is accessible through one of just three main GUI tabs. Two other tabs provide  an overview of the tool and a placeholder for customer information. Real time monitoring and dynamic control are available in the dashboard. The XRP7725 Intel Node Manager Compatible quad-output controller has its own unique pop-up window to bridge between the hardware and the engineer’s firmware. This window can be used to quickly calibrate the improved telemetry features of the XRP7725 for a given hardware design.

James Lougheed, Vice President, Power Management, Exar, commented: “The open source development environment provided by the Arduino platform lets engineers explore the possibilities enabled by Exar’s programmable power technologies. As PowerArchitect has matured, we’ve listened to our customers and developed features that allow them greater design flexibility, while ensuring that the GUI remains simple and easy to use.”

PowerArchitect 5.1 is available as a free download from Exar.