Four-phase buck controller for Intel VR12.5 CPUs

The latest ultrabook and tablet products have increasingly complex power requirements. The core controller must be able to deliver specific voltages and regulate the CPE core voltages from wide input power supplies. These advanced systems also require improved power density and efficiency to enable a much smaller footprint.

Intersil’s ISL95816 four-phase buck controller is based on an innovative design that not only supports the requirements of Intel VR12.5 processors, but also offers the industry’s best dynamic transient response. Its wide input voltage range of 4.6V to 19V lets designers use either narrow VDC or traditional adapters. The new device also provides PWM outputs that can be used with either external drivers or compatible DrMOS solutions, offering added flexibility for designers.

Using Intersil’s proprietary R3 modulator, the ISL95816 buck controller offers fast load transient response with minimal ringing on the output voltage. The R3 modulator performance enables support for the VR12.5 specifications at lower switching frequencies and less output capacitance. This translates to higher efficiency and a smaller footprint solution, reducing the bill of materials.

Key features:

• Programmable switching frequency offers design flexibility by allowing for the use of a broad range of output filters,
• Integrated over-current, over temperature, and over/under-voltage protection to prevent shutdown,
• Output voltage regulation between 0.5V and 2.3V.

Pricing and availability:

The ISL95816 is available now in a small form factor 32-lead 3x4mm QFN packages with prices starting at $2.49 each in 1,000-unit quantities. A complete evaluation board, the ISL95816EVAL7Z, is available for $699.