Freescale releases power management IC for new Intel Atom processor

Developed in conjunction with Intel,Freescale’s power management IC (PMIC) is a two chip solution manufactured on Freescale’s advanced SMARTMOS technology, a high-voltage CMOS-based process that enables high integration of precision analog, power and logic. When paired with Intel's low-power processors and chip sets, Freescale’s PMICs provide increased energy efficiency for Intel-based tablets, smartphones and other Internet consumer devices. Freescale’s solution combines hardware components, design support materials and support for Intel’s drivers to help OEMs deploy sophisticated products to market faster.

“The combination of Intel’s Atom processor and Freescale’s PMIC will allow advanced innovations and end user experiences not realized with current mobile products,” said Scott Ward, vice president and general manager of Freescale’s Analog, Mixed-Signal & Power Division. “The Freescale PMIC solution for Intel-based products allows customers to help develop compelling new devices that feature extended battery life, high speed graphics and exceptional performance.”

Freescale’s PMICs have been thoroughly tested and qualified to help provide solutions for customer compatibly for new product development. The PMIC chip set has integrated audio, charging, LED backlight, USB, ADS and power rails, which when fully integrated, are designed to reduce the footprint and software development cycles.

“The recently announced Intel Atom processor delivers industry-leading performance while significantly reducing idle and active power at the platform level,” said Pankaj Kedia, director of global ecosystem programs in Intel Corporation’s Ultra Mobility Group. “Intel’s collaboration with Freescale in developing the power management chip has played a key role in achieving these power reductions, which will result in handheld form factors with great battery life.”

In addition, Freescale is engaged with multiple ODM and OEM customers utilizing the PMIC for next-generation products targeting the consumer market.

We welcome the Freescale solution, as it is a good match for market and technology requirements set by a growing number of Internet savvy devices, said Vesa Kiviranta, vice president, Elektrobit Wireless Solutions.

Freescale’s PMICs for the Intel Atom processor-based platform are available now, as are Intel Development Kits, Freescale development boards and reference design kits.