News & Events
Intersil Introduces World's First Integrated 6 Amp Step-Down Converter with Built-in Voltage Margining and Power Sequencing

-- Integrates voltage margining to allow system stress testing~--Includes power sequencing to allow several supplies to start-up in controlled sequence

MILPITAS, CA, April 10, 2003 – Intersil Corporation (NASDAQ: ISIL), a world leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions, today introduced a feature-rich, high efficiency, 6 amp step-down converter that saves precious board space by integrating functions required in networking and server applications. Intersil’s new Elantec® EL7566 offers integrated synchronous MOSFETs and generates CPU core, DSP and input/output (I/O) supplies while incorporating voltage margining, power supply sequencing and protection against a wide range of fault conditions.

“The Elantec EL7566 is a feature-rich integrated FET 6 amp buck converter that’s tailored for novice and experienced power designers seeking point-of-load power solutions for CPU, DSP and FPGA applications,” said Kaveh Parsi, director of marketing for communications and power products for Intersil’s Elantec Product Group. “This third generation device offers up to 96% efficiency at 6 amps of continuous current and incorporates power up sequencing for today’s critical core processor and input/output (I/O) voltage requirements. The EL7566 also offers a plus or minus five percent voltage margining capability -- allowing customers to raise and lower the supplies derived from the EL7566 to validate the performance and reliability of system cards quickly and easily during manufacturing testing.”

The EL7566 operates from a 3V to 6V Vin input supply. With internal CMOS power FETs, the device can operate at up to 100% duty ratio allowing for output voltage range from 0.8V up to nearly Vin. The device operates at a constant frequency pulse width modulation mode, making external synchronization possible. Patented on-chip resistor-less current sensing enables current mode control, which provides cycle-by-cycle current limiting, over-current protection and excellent step load response. The adjustable, high switching frequency of up to 1 MHz enables the use of small components, making the entire converter less than 0.9 square inches in size with all components occupying one side of a printed circuit board.

The EL7566 features soft-start and full start-up control, which eliminates the in-rush current and enables users to easily control the start-up of multiple converters in any configuration. A junction temperature indicator allows for convenient monitoring of the silicon die temperature, saving system designers from tedious thermal characterization.

EL7566 Key Features

• Integrated synchronous MOSFETs and current mode controller
• 6A continuous output current
• Up to 96% efficiency
• 1.25% initial output accuracy
• Built-in +/-5% voltage margining
• Multiple supply start-up tracking
• Adjustable switching frequency to 1 MHz
• Power-good indicator
• Junction temperature indicator
• Requires less expensive and smaller inductor and capacitor values
• 0° to 85°C temperature range, with over-temperature protection
• 28-pin HTSSOP package

Availability and Pricing
Intersil's Elantec EL7566DRE is available now in a 28-pin thin shrink small outline package with heat sink (HTSSOP) for $3.09 each in 10,000-unit quantities. To facilitate quick time to market, Intersil offers complete layout and reference designs. To learn more about Intersil’s Elantec power management products and solutions, visit the Intersil Web site at http://www.intersil.com/design/elantec/ElantecPowerManagement.asp About Intersil
Intersil Corporation is a global semiconductor leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions. Intersil’s product portfolios address four fast growing markets – flat panel displays, optical storage (CD and DVD recordable), power management and wireless networking. Intersil brings added customer value in providing complete silicon, software and reference design solutions to new products that enhance the computing experience for people wherever they live, work or travel. For more information about Intersil or to find out how to become a member of our winning team, visit the company's web site and career page at: www.intersil.com

Elantec is a registered trademark of Intersil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries.