ams makes move into power
1 min read
ams is strengthening its presence in the smartphone and tablet computer markets – reportedly the only two semiconductor markets to have shown growth in 2012 – with a new range of power management devices.
The AS3721 power management ic (pmic) has been optimised for use with Nvidia's latest Tegra applications processors which feature in mobile smartphone, tablet and, increasingly, in automotive infotainment applications. When used alongside the company's AS3729 point of load regulators, the device can reduce thermal stress, give reliable processor performance and improve efficiency.
This is the first time that ams has introduced a standard pmic, having previously developed power management asics. Despite being optimised for the Tegra, the AS3721 can be customised to suit other processors and this reflects a trend within ams towards more standardisation.
Conventional power architectures require pmic and processor to be close to each other, which can result in hot spots. However, the AS3721 enables a compact remote feedback path from the processor to the chip's integrated dc/dc controllers and this only uses two wires (one temperature signal, one control signal) rather than four or five wires used by similar parts. With fewer traces, the two devices can be placed further apart, bringing flexibility in pcb layout.
