Monolithic 3-A Buck Converter Eases Design, Cuts PCB Space
Offering light-load and noise-sensitive options, STMicroelectronics’ DCP3603 monolithic 3-A buck converter simplifies design, saves PCB space, and enhances system reliability. With a 3.3- to 36-V input-voltage range, this 3- × 1.6-mm SOT23 6-lead converter can drive equipment such as smart meters, domestic appliances, and industrial 24-V loads.
With features including synchronous rectification and either a 1-MHz or 500-kHz fixed switching frequency, the DCP3603 maintains high efficiency across the load range, reaching 93% at 600 mA with 12 VIN and 5 VOUT. Power switches and compensation are built in, with only an inductor, bootstrap and filter capacitors, and feedback resistors needed to complete the circuit.
The converter is available in two variants, one configured for forced pulse-width-modulation (PWM) operation for optimal performance in noise-sensitive applications, and the other with pulse-skipping for minimal power consumption at light load. Both variants implement frequency dithering to reduce noise power at the switching frequency, with a low quiescent current of 85 µA to minimize overall power consumption. An Enable pin allows the converter to be turned off to maximize power savings.
The STEVAL-3603BC1 evaluation board is available to help evaluate the DCP3603 in new designs. Featuring a compact footprint, it connects via screw terminals and headers, ready to power up out of the box.
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About the Author
Alix Paultre
Editor-at-Large, Microwaves & RF
Alix is Editor-at-Large for Microwaves & RF.
An Army veteran, Alix Paultre was a signals intelligence soldier on the East/West German border in the early ‘80s, and eventually wound up helping launch and run a publication on consumer electronics for the U.S. military stationed in Europe. Alix first began in this industry in 1998 at Electronic Products magazine, and since then has worked for a variety of publications, most recently as Editor-in-Chief of Power Systems Design.
Alix currently lives in Wiesbaden, Germany.