Microchip's synchronous boost regulator enables longer-lasting battery apps

CHANDLER, USA: Microchip Technology Inc. has announced the MCP1640 Synchronous Boost Regulator, which features an operating voltage down to 0.35V, quiescent current as low as 19 microamperes and shutdown current of less than one microampere.

With integrated dual FET transistors and output currents up to 350 milliamperes, the 500 kHz MCP1640 regulator enables compact, longer-lasting battery applications in the consumer electronics market (e.g., electric razors, toothbrushes, GPS devices and portable music players), among others.

The MCP1640 regulator’s operating voltage of down to 0.35V and start-up voltage of 0.65V allows use with even a single, completely drained Alkaline, NiMH or NiCd battery cell. A PWM/PFM option enables the device’s low quiescent and shutdown currents, and provides up to 96 percent efficiency, allowing for longer battery run times. The regulator’s two integrated FET transistors reduce component count, resulting in smaller overall designs.

“The MCP1640 addresses customer needs to reduce the number of batteries required for their applications, while providing long run times and compact design sizes,” said Bryan J. Liddiard, vice president of Microchip’s Analog and Interface Products Division.