National Semi Intros LM2706 Miniature DC-DC Converter

National Semiconductor Corp. (Santa Clara, CA) introduced a miniature, variable, step-down, dc-dc converter that features four forced and automatic bypass modes for powering RF power amplifiers from a single lithium-ion cell. Applications for the LM2706 include mobile phones and RF power-based applications.

The LM2706 steps down an input voltage from 2.7 V to 5.5 V to a variable output from 1.5 V to 3.25 V with up to 300 mA. The output voltage is set using a VCON analog input for controlling the power levels and efficiency of the RF power amplifier. An internal bypass switch allows direct connection to the battery for maximum power.

The LM2706 is available now in a 10-pin, lead-free, micro-SMD package. The LM2706 costs $1.50 in 1,000-unit quantities.