Small switching POL regulators

The PMD series regulators offer a ‘quick’ solution for low current applications. Using highly integrated functionalities in a single chip control IC less than 2.4cm2 (0.37” square) the PMD offers extreme flexibility to designers when - as is often the case – a board’s complexity limits the available room for power circuitry. The small size also offers the possibility to incorporate other ‘value adding’ components.

The PMD4000 is a 3A POL regulator providing an output range of 0.9 to 3.6V at 10.8W for 3.0-5.5Vin applications, and the PMD5000 is rated at 2.25A, providing 0.9 to 5.5V, 12W for 4.5-14Vin applications. An advanced feature of the PMD is AutoTrackTM that tracks an external voltage ramp to achieve simultaneous start up/shut down.

The versatile modules are available in either surface mount or through-hole formats. Similarly, the regulators’ flexible output voltages combined with wide input voltage ranges provided by just two part numbers offers unlimited possibilities while reducing inventory. As a POLA product, buyers can be sure of secure sourcing from at least three other vendors who will be producing interoperable products.
The PMD series is based on the same technology that is used in higher current POLA products and as such utilizes the best circuitry available today in the marketplace.

The low current sector for POL is often challenged by discrete solutions that require resources to design and maintain such a solution - with all the associated costs. Additionally, due to its highly integrated functionalities, PMD requires less board space as a discrete solution. This, combined with the limitation to two part numbers covering all possible combinations of input voltages and output voltages make the product cost efficient throughout the whole chain from board concept to final application.
Factors driving the demand for this type of product are its shorter time to market, no need for a discrete design, the saving of space on expensive PC boards by utilising dual side mounting, and the ability to make last minute changes due to adaptive product design. By definition point-of-load can be used in any application from industrial to medical, though Telecom and Datacom are the largest segments for such products.

Ericsson’s PMD series DC/DC regulators are designed to POLA standards to provide maximum flexibility for board power designs. POLA ensures full compatibility between all participating member products.