TI DC/DC buck-boost converter extends battery life by 50%

It is a common challenge for engineers to design for low I_Q while providing enough output current to send signals between connected smart grid applications and a network via commonly used radio-frequency standards, such as narrowband Internet of Things (IoT), Bluetooth Low Energy, and long-range and wireless M-Bus. The TPS63900 helps engineers conserve energy in wirelessly connected applications that run on batteries.

The TPS63900 integrates dynamic voltage scaling to deliver power while keeping the system at the minimum voltage required to operate efficiently, maximising battery life and reducing required maintenance for industrial applications.

This feature enables design engineers to optimise power architectures for ultra-low-power sensors and wireless connectivity integrated circuits, supporting applications that can operate for at least 10 years using the primary battery. For example, the buck-boost converter can be paired with TI’s MSP430FR2155in security sensors or wireless IoT sensors to monitor the vibration of water pumps for predictive maintenance and help drive down costs.

As the industry’s lowest I_Q buck-boost converter to integrate a programmable input current limit, the TPS63900 efficiently charges supercapacitors to buffer peak loads, protect battery capacity, and extend system lifetime and performance. Fully charged supercapacitors help buffer the energy required to operate components that require high peak currents, such as those found in motorised smart locks.

For more details, and to see how an integrated programmable input current limit reduces bill of materials and total solution cost, see the application note, ‘Using input current limiting to extend battery life’.

The TPS63900 increases the stability of connected applications by reducing up to 50% of the output-voltage ripple caused by load transients. The new buck-boost converter’s ultra-fast transient response maintains low I_Q while keeping the internal regulation loop active.

This capability is particularly beneficial for applications like smart water and gas meters that are always on but need to consume high power in a short amount of time when sharing data.

The TPS63900is now available through TI and authorised distributors in a 2.5x2.5mm wafer small outline no-lead (WSON) package and is priced at $0.80 in 1,000-unit quantities. Full and custom quantity reels are available on TI.com and through other channels.

The TPS63900EVM evaluation module is available on TI.com for $49.