20 A dc-dc regulator module in new space-saving package design

The SiC931 from Vishay, a synchronous buck regulator module which is capable of supplying a continuous 20 A output, features an innovative microBRICK™ package design which is less than one-third of the volume of equivalent competing modules. Its board footprint is also less than half the size of competitors’. 

Intended as a power supply for microprocessors, DSPs, FPGAs, or ASICs, the SiC931 is a complete power system including power MOSFETs and inductor. The power stage supplies a maximum continuous current of 20 A at a switching frequency of up to 2 MHz. Requiring few peripheral components, the SiC931 is easy to design into an end product’s power system.

The SiC931 module produces an adjustable output voltage between 0.6 V and 5.5 V from a 4.5 V to 18 V input range. The architecture supports an ultra-fast transient response with minimal output capacitance and tight ripple regulation. The regulator is internally compensated, and no external ESR network is required to maintain loop stability. 

The SiC931 gives the designer a choice of four programmable switching frequencies: 600 kHz, 1 MHz, 1.5 MHz and 2 MHz. The mode of operation is also programmable, between continuous-conduction and power-saving modes. 

The module implements an adjustable soft-start process, and applies an adjustable cycle-by-cycle current limit. It also incorporates a power-saving scheme which increases light-load efficiency.