TI Extends PTH Devives with T2 Series POL Power Modules

Texas Instruments Inc. (TI, Houston, TX) announced a family of non-isolated, plug-in power modules with a new technology that provides ultra-fast transient response rates and reduces customers' need for output capacitors. Featuring a tight 1.5-percent output-voltage regulation, the point-of-load (POL) modules offer increased performance in a smaller footprint for designers of 3G wireless infrastructure, networking, and communications systems that use advanced DSPs, FPGAs, ASICs, and microprocessors.

Extending TI's line of PTH devices, the new T2 Series of POL modules will support step-down dc-dc conversion from a wide 4.5 V to 14 V input with adjustable output voltages down to 0.7 V at output currents up to 50 A, making them suitable for intermediate bus architecture applications. The power modules offer several advanced features to reduce the overall power solution footprint by as much as 50 percent compared to previous-generation devices.

The T2 power modules feature a new TurboTrans™ technology, which allows a power supply designer to "tune" the modules using a single external resistor to meet a specific transient load requirement. The end-result is faster transient response with 40 percent less output-voltage deviation, and a five-to-eight-times reduction in output capacitance. In addition, system stability is enhanced when using ultra-low equivalent series resistance polymer tantalum or ceramic capacitors.

In addition to the TurboTrans technology, the T2 modules incorporate a SmartSync function that allows the designer to synchronize the switching frequencies of multiple T2 devices to maximize power efficiency and minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI). SmartSync also allows the T2 modules to synchronize at different phase angles using external circuits to help balance source loading and minimize input capacitance. The synchronized modules also make EMI filtering easier by eliminating beat frequencies.

Additional features of the T2 modules include proprietary Auto-Track™ sequencing technology, which allows multiple modules to power up and down in sequence without external circuitry. The Auto-Track sequencing feature permits non-isolated power modules to track each other or any external control voltage. Meeting 260 °C re-flow requirements, the T2 Series also provides advanced pre-bias startup capabilities.

The new T2 power modules are now available in sample quantities. The company is currently accepting orders for volume production. Pricing per module begins at $7.90 for 1,000-piece quantities.