With the surging demand in data traffic and increasing transmission rates, designers face challenges integrating the stricter power requirements of optical modules. MPS provides a complete power supply solution with the MPM38x4C series (including the MPM3814C, MPM3824C, and MPM3834C) and the MPM3864, achieving excellent EMC performance, excellent voltage conversion efficiency, and minimal output voltage ripple.

Battery-powered devices have changed the way we interact with the world, and the ways in which they charge are integral to their functions and lasting use. This article will explore battery chemistries and the ways that these chemistries can impact the battery management system (BMS) for low-voltage systems. Although batteries follow a common charging profile, their individual chemistries can change their typical applications, and require compatible chargers to ensure safety and efficiency.

This article reviews the basic model of radiated EMI and the principle of generating radiated EMI spikes, then uses a dual active bridge converter to observe how CM noise can be impacted by the CM inductor and Y-capacitor. In the conduction frequency band, the low-frequency characteristics of the filter elements are typically used to suppress EMI. In the radiation frequency band, the stray parameters of the filter elements are typically used to achieve EMI suppression more effectively. MPS offers a complete line of isolation solutions that are optimized for demanding industrial and automotive environments.

Charge pump converters are cost-effective solutions that can effectively double an output relative to its input. Designers should choose the appropriate DC/DC converter that meets their applications requirements. MPS offers a number of charge pump converters, boost converters, and buck-boost converters to meet any design specification.

This article discusses the modeling method of conducted and radiated EMI of non-isolated converters using buck converters and buck-boost converters. Part I of this series introduced conducted EMI as well as passive components that can contribute to EMI. MPS offers a number of non-isolated switching converters and controllers as well as isolated converters to meet your application needs. For automotive applications, MPS’s automotive-grade buck-boost converters and buck converters were designed to meet stringent EMI requirements, in addition to EMC testing laboratories.

This article describes how to analyze EMI noise and create a modeling method for conducted EMI (DM noise and CM noise), as well as how passive components can also increase EMI, while using a buck converter and buck-boost converter as examples. Part II will discuss radiated EMI. MPS offers an extensive number of non-isolated switching converters and controllers as well as isolated converters to meet your application needs. MPS also offers automotive-grade buck-boost converters and buck converters to meet stringent EMI requirements, in addition to EMC testing laboratories.

This article discusses the steps for determining the switching current capability for boost converters, which combined with V_IN and V_OUT requirements, are necessary for proper boost converter selection. For more details, explore MPS’s wide selection of boost controllers and converters.

This article models predictive transient simulation using the MP2891, a multi-phase controller, and the MPC22163-130, a two-phase, non-isolated, high-efficiency step-down power block, on an MPS evaluation board. Precise converter models and power delivery network parameters allow for accurate prediction of the multi-phase buck converter’s performance, transient droop, and overshoot. As a result, it is possible to optimize the processor design in the early stages by reducing the number of output capacitors and determining their effective placement. Furthermore, if the design specifications change, accurate simulation enables making a quick assessment of the impact of these changes, as well as identifying any potential issues.

This article lays out the steps for calculating the inductance required for a buck converter, which includes calculating for duty cycle, turn-on time, ∆I_L, L, and I_PK. By determining the correct inductance, system efficiency, ∆V_OUT, and loop stability can also be optimized. For more details, explore MPS's online inductor selection tool, which allows the user to easily obtain the desired inductance and add the appropriate inductor model.

This article discusses the benefits of using on-chip integrator amplifiers to convert incredibly tiny currents to voltages to match the ADC’s range. It also discusses the MDC91128, a scalable delta-sigma ADC that can be used in a wide range of applications, including x-ray scanning.

This article describes the benefits of using the MPQ4228-C-AEC1, such as high efficiency, excellent EMI performance, and optimized heat dissipation. In addition to the MPQ4228-C-AEC1, there is a video introducing the MPQ4228-AEC1, which is part of the MPQ4228 family. MPS offers a robust array of AECQ-100 qualified USB charging ports that can meet any design’s needs.

As e-bikes and bike-sharing services become more widespread, MPS is leading the wave of e-bikes with products such as the MPF42790, HR1211, MP6925A, MP4581, and MP2731. From controllers to battery chargers to converters, MPS can improve e-bike solutions at multiple stages of the design process. For more information on fuel gauge solutions, see the full battery management fuel gauge solution with the MPF42790.

This article explores three different types of shutdown waveforms (Class R, Class G, and Class B) related to the power supply shutdown process, with the intent of improving stability and preventing negative overshoot. These classes are also further subdivided, depending on the excess energy and loads conditions. For more details, explore MPS’s robust selection of step-down power modules.

Compared with traditional discrete solutions, designing an integrated battery management solution using a single series cell charger such as the MP2722 requires fewer external components, which effectively reduces PCB size, simplifies the design process, and shortens the design cycles. The MP2722 also offers advanced features, including legacy cable detection, BC1.2 support, and connector moisture detection, to achieve improved system compatibility and safety. These features make the MP2722 well-suited for building a low-cost, 15W, dual-role USB Type-C charging solution. For more details, explore MPS’s battery charger solutions, including single series cell chargers, two series cell chargers, and three or more series cell chargers.

New flyback variants are being quickly developed and implemented to meet the market demand for higher power density and efficiency. SR controllers must also be adapted as more zero-voltage switching variants are being adopted in practical applications. As the leader in the synchronous rectifier market, MPS offers an unmatched level of robust and reliable SR operation with the MP6951. Compared to existing SR controllers, the MP6951 can perfectly match any flyback variant with the key advantage of eliminating shoot-through risk during ZVS operation. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the MP6951’s control scheme among cutting-edge adapter products has been fully verified in theory and production.

The junction temperature influences many operational parameters, as well as the device’s operational lifetime. The most challenging aspect of designing a high-power circuit is determining whether a specific device can support the relevant application requirements. The effective transient thermal impedance is influenced by many factors, including copper area and layout, heating from adjacent devices, the thermal mass of adjacent devices on the PCB, and airflow around the device. To accurately estimate temperature rise, it is best to characterize the thermal impedance directly in the application circuit.

This article uses the MP28600, a step-up (boost) converter, to describe the differences between quiescent current and shutdown current, which can be optimized in battery-powered applications. As electrical devices become more intelligent and diverse with the evolution of Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices, portable applications, medical instruments, and industrial sensors, low power consumption and a small size are paramount. MPS provides a robust portfolio of converters to meet any application’s needs.

To optimize the FB routing in the FB voltage resistor divider in a DC/DC converter, it is important to keep the first element as short as possible and to directly connect the second element on the same side. Ensure that there are no interference sources such as switches, inductors, and an unclean groundFor more details, explore MPS’s wide selection of switching converters and controllers.

The MDC91128 provides a combination of configurability, high performance, and integration to provide cost-effective, high-quality images for scanning x-ray systems and industrial imaging. MPS provides a growing family of data converters that can be used to x-ray imaging, data acquisition systems, and mobile communication.

This article reviews PoE power supplies and the cable structure inside the network port, then describes the standard PoE power supply process. MPS offers a variety of PoE PD interfaces for the IEEE 802.3 af/at/bt protocol, including the MP8007, MP8017, MP8009, and MP8030.

This article introduces how to select the appropriate HS-FET and LS-FET ratio through accurate mathematical modeling to optimize your power supply’s efficiency. For more information, MPS’s MOSFET drivers and power supply solutions can be found online.

Energy storage is essential to advance power systems as well as goals for reaching a carbon peak and achieving carbon neutrality. To meet the growing demands of energy storage, designers must address the limitations of the BMS such as battery monitoring accuracy, developing fuel gauge algorithms, and ensuring battery safety. Monolithic Power System provides an effective battery management solution using the MP2797 combined with the MPF4279x fuel gauge series to boost energy storage and overcome challenges with the BMS.

USB Type-C connectors (also called USB-C connectors) are versatile, incredibly small compared to older connectors, backwards compatible with older USB standards, and can deliver high power up to 240W. By following the specifications for USB Type-C and USB PD and optimizations discussed in this article, manufacturers help maintain interoperability between products, provide protections that can extend the product’s lifetime, and contribute to the EU’s goal for e-waste reduction. Although the common charger mandate in the EU is a recent development, MPS has been creating charger ICs and battery management devices designed to cover a wide range of USB Type-C and USB PD applications. Buyers and manufacturers for portable applications can benefit from our extensive portfolio as USB Type-C connectors become more and more common worldwide.

New automotive designs are adopting 48V power management systems to reduce weight and power loss in the vehicle’s cable harnesses. Moreover, to withstand high loads, the use of interleaved topologies is important for the increase in required power. When using interleaved topologies, excellent thermal distribution is necessary to balance the MOSFET degradation. This article presents a simple and easy thermal-balancing circuit combined with the MPQ2908A-AEC1, which improves current sharing and temperature distribution in multi-phase designs, and meets standardized EMC requirements, such as CISPR 25 Class 5. The temperature difference between the multi-phase converter phases can be effectively reduced from 2°C to 0.5°C using well-known and commonly used components.

This article explains the definition of resolution starting from the description of random error and the statistical concepts of standard deviation and confidence. It also clarifies the difference between the digital representation (number of bits provided on the sensor output) and the resolution of the sensor measurement, in case this is provided in digital form. By showing the effect of filtering, the article proves that both resolution and bandwidth must be considered to determine a product’s real performance. Finally, this article provides an example of a typical magnetic angle sensor datasheet to show how to correctly interpret the information contained in it.

It is possible to create a cost-effective, 2-layer PCB design that can perform well in harsh environments. A low-cost design can pass the EMI test with CISPR25 and OEM limits with sufficient margin, which we have demonstrated using the MPQ4323-AEC1. In this automotive PCB design, the IC can achieve close to full output operation under ambient temperatures that are approximately 100°C when operating at 400kHz, and approximately 80°C when operating at 2.2MHz when given a sufficient copper area for dissipation. MPS has designed a thermal enhanced lead frame for higher efficiency, resulting in a thermally superior solution that can work within compact and space-constrained systems.

Rather than relying on the old paradigm of CFP, the PC power delivery market needs to evolve and adopt a new model for COS. One such approach is for the existing suppliers to license their IP, which would enable new vendors to manufacture that suppliers’ parts. This would provide a new supply source of parts identical to the unique design adopted by the tier 1 suppliers, and would not require any additional validation. The PC market is driven by revolutionary changes, and it is time the supply chain changes with it.

The MP2797 offers high-precision battery voltage and current monitoring, temperature monitoring, cell balancing, and comprehensive protection features. As lithium battery safety becomes more important for battery-powered applications, MPS will continue to provide a wide range of battery management system monitoring and protection solutions that guarantee safety and boost battery lifespan.

Microstepping allows for finer positioning and smoother operation compared to full-step or half-step mode. This article discusses how slow decay and fast decay between steps can be used to stabilize the current. In addition, combining these decay modes can decrease torque ripple, which reduces vibration and noise. MPS offers a wide array of stepper motor drivers to meet your application needs.

Multi-beam technology is an important advancement for the automotive sector — by adapting the high beam to the road layout and environment, the additional illumination allows drivers to feel more secure in low-visibility situations. However, the lighting design for multi-beam technologies presents some challenges that can be mitigated by selecting an optimal LED driver. For this article, the MPQ7225-AEC1 was selected due to its great scalability, EMIs reduction techniques, and its robust communication options. When designing a multi-beam system, thermals are a high priority, so it is recommended to introduce techniques such as AFC and dimming.

The choice between monolithic motor drivers and a gate driver with external MOSFET solutions to drive motors is complex. Tradeoffs between cost, solution size, and thermal characteristics must be considered. For very small motors, monolithic drivers are the best solution. Likewise, for very high-power motors, a solution using gate drivers and discrete MOSFETs should be used. However, there is a large overlap between both solutions, so designers should consider the specifications of their application when making their choice. For more information, see MPS motor driver solutions.

This article reviews the basic components of a bipolar stepper motor (the stator and rotor), as well as the three primary control modes: single-phase, full-step, and half-step stepping. Part II will discuss microstepping for the dual full-bridge drive. MPS offers a wide array of stepper motor drivers to meet your application needs.

Selecting the correct pre-regulator for an ADAS system is not an easy task. Using an IC that allows its output to be paralleled in a multi-phase topology makes this design more straightforward. The scalable solution using the MPQ4360-AEC1 and MPQ5850-AEC1 allows each rail to meet its required output current in a small area, while reducing BOM cost. For additional reading, refer to the following article to learn more about automotive transients.

PoE is an innovative concept that continuously rises to meet the growing power demands of modern technology. Despite its general reliability, it can be difficult for designers to maintain a high efficiency with these solutions, though implementing a few optimization methods can help mitigate these issues. The MP8017 confirms that selecting optimal transformers, snubbers, and output capacitors — as well as implementing frequency dithering and integrating components onto a single die — are effective methods to guarantee efficient without hindering performance.

The advancement of the automotive smart cockpit’s SoC technology will require increased computing power, main frequency, and dynamic response speed. It will also require single-phase and multi-phase solutions with a higher I_OUT and additional safety features. These combined factors can present challenges when selecting and designing power chips. To address these challenges, MPS and Semidrive developed a smart cockpit solution with the X9H reference board. This article then explores a two-level power supply scheme to improve the system’s conversion efficiency and support battery voltage fluctuations, in addition to the backlight drive scheme. Based on the ongoing developments in the vehicle power supply industry, MPS continues to innovate and launch products for a competitive portfolio that leads the smart cockpit revolution. To learn more about our automotive-grade products such as the MPQ2179-AEC1, click here.

In this article, we discuss the relationship between PF and THD, and obtain a high PF value using a boost APFC circuit. Integrating a PFC circuit in a power supply design minimizes total harmonic distortion and increases the larger power utilization rate, which leads to an overall lower power supply cost. MPS offers a selection of PFC controllers to meet harmonic current requirements and improve power quality. These PFC controllers offer an integrated design with proprietary packaging technology and high efficiency.

Battery-powered applications have become commonplace over the last decade, and such devices require a certain level of protection to ensure safe usage. The battery management system (BMS) monitors the battery and possible fault conditions, preventing the battery from situations in which it can degrade, fade in capacity, or even potentially harm the user or surrounding environment. It is also the responsibility of the BMS to provide an accurate state-of-charge (SOC) and state-of-health (SOH) estimate to ensure an informative and safe user experience over the lifetime of the battery.

Modern devices are increasingly powered by Power over Ethernet (PoE), such as IP phones, wireless APs, and IP cameras. Customer premise equipment (CPE) and small base stations in the 5G era also require PoE power. This article discusses MPS’s comprehensive suite of power management solutions for a wide range of switches, including PSE, boost, high-voltage buck/flyback, high-current buck, and 2A to 3A buck.

This paper studies the feasibility of implementing active input power estimation without any additional sensors for boost PFC converter. The analysis in this paper accounts for the influence of parasitic effects, such as turn-on and turn-off delays, DCM oscillation, transition between DCM and CCM, and active power loss on passive components. Based on the mathematical modeling of the system and parasitic effects, an algorithm for accurately estimating the input power has been proposed. It takes the characteristics of the mainstream multi-mode PFC control scheme into consideration, and is able to support a wide operating range. The proposed estimation approach has been verified by experimental results on a 400W boost PFC prototype based on the HR1211GY. As digital PFC controllers are becoming more and more popular in practical applications, this study provides a possible approach to reduce system complexity and cost, as well as to improve reliability for power supply products in the future, by implementing basic power metering functions without adding any additional sensors.

To pass the various test standards for pulse interferences, it is important to achieve an optimal reverse polarity protection circuit design. Compared to the traditional P-channel MOSFET circuit, the N-channel MOSFET circuit improves driver current capability and EMC performance. In particular, the MPQ5850-AEC1 provides reverse input protection and passes the national EMC standards. For more details, explore MPS’s load switches and supervisors, which lead the industry with simple-to-use and safe solutions in compact packages.

In this article, we reviewed the traditional P-channel MOSFET reverse polarity protection circuit and its key disadvantages, including large system standby current and backflow current. Part II will discuss the advantages of designing a reverse polarity protection circuit design using an N-channel MOSFET and buck-boost driver IC.

MPS’s safety-oriented mindset generates system architectures that are not only secure, but customizable and quick to market. The introduction of MPSafe^TM helps to avoid human mistakes to ensure that MPS devices meet safety requirements with ease. This procedure enables us to produce automotive products that are ready to meet the increasingly stringent certifications for automotive safety. Future parts will include precision sensors, digitally programmable power converters, motor drivers, voltage monitors and sequencers for high-current solutions, LED drivers, and much more.

Designing an LLC converter is a long and complex process that involves a myriad of considerations according to the specific application requirements. Due to the large number of parameters and the relationships between these parameters, the design process typically spans many iterations and calculations that can lead to lengthy design times. MPS offers tools such as the MPS LLC Designer and the MPF32010, a configurable LLC controller, to significantly accelerate the development process.

The increased switching frequency brought about by the introduction of WBG semiconductors paired with increased power requirements has made isolation a key factor in power converter design. High isolation and CMTI ratings are key to ensure that users and devices connected to the power supply are not harmed by accidental current leakage. Protections features such as desaturation protection and active Miller clamps keep the MOSFETs operating safely. MPS offers a wide variety of isolated gate drivers such as the MP18831, a dual-channel driver specifically designed for half-bridge converter topologies with configurable dead-time control. To learn more about our isolated power products, visit the Isolation product category page.

High-frequency LLC power supplies are typically more difficult to implement and optimize in designs than low-frequency converters, but devices like the MPQ18913 simplify LLC power supplies with features including automatic resonant frequency detection and integrated transistors. In addition, LLC resonant topologies reduce solution size, which increases power density for high-power charging stations such as those used for charging electric vehicles. As electric charging infrastructure continues to improve, look out for the MPQ18913 being used to bias SiC FETs in high-power charging applications, as well as automotive applications such as on-board chargers, traction inverters, and DC/DC converters.

There are a wide variety of inductors on the market for different applications, and it can be difficult to select the optimal inductor. For example, larger-value inductors reduce DC losses an improve efficiency, but they are physically larger and they retain more heat. Because there is no one-size-fits-all inductor, it is vital to understand each inductor’s parameters, as well as the relationships between different parameters. This can help designers determine how an inductor would perform in a particular DC/DC application, and aid in inductor selection when looking at MPS’s semi-shielded inductors and molded inductors.

When designing a motion control system using stepper motors, do not assume that the rated holding torque of the motor still applies when microstepping, as the incremental torque is reduced substantially. This can result in unexpected positioning errors, which were demonstrated by the tests above. In some cases, increasing the microstep resolution does not improve system accuracy. To overcome these limitations, it is recommended to minimize the torque load on the motor, or to use a motor that has a higher rated holding torque. Oftentimes, the best solution is to design the mechanical system to use larger step increments, and not to rely on fine microstepping. Stepper motor drivers like the MP6500 can use a 1/8-step to provide the same mechanical performance as traditional, costlier microstepping drivers.

Server and computing applications require power supplies that can handle large, sudden shifts in current while meeting strict V_OUT regulation requirements. Using the MP2965 digital controller to implement a PMBus-configurable load line, this article demonstrates the benefits of load-line control, such as improved efficiency and improved power supply transient response performance. This article also explains how implementing a DC load line reduces the minimum required bulk capacitance, allowing designers to reduce overall cost and minimize board space while still meeting specifications for server applications.

Among automotive radar technology, millimeter-wave radar achieves powerful detection performance for the advancement of autonomous driving. In this article, we review a discrete power supply solution using the Calterah Alps series and the MPQ4420A-AEC1, MPQ2166A-AEC1, and MPQ2171-AEC1. MPS is a forward-thinking power supply manufacturer that continues to create innovative solutions for a wide array of applications.

The growing demand for PoE power supplies led to the development of the MP8017. Using the MP8017, designers can effectively optimize the six large modules of the PoE flyback. With features such as high integration, reduced external component count, smaller size, and active-clamp control, this flyback controverter is setting PoE trends in the industry.

Understanding how an LLC resonant tank operates is crucial when designing an LLC converter. The tank’s resonant characteristics make the LLC converter so popular, since this converter can maintain efficient and stable operation across a wide load and power range. However, this resonance also forces designers to be very careful when designing the circuit parameters, since the tank’s gain response depends on a multitude of parameters, including the load and the converter’s operating point (see Equation (7)). Design tools such as the MPS LLC Designer are ideal for speeding up LLC design, allowing users to quickly iterate through different gains and frequencies and calculate the necessary component values for their design.

This article reviews the MP5031’s features, and how these features improve on traditional control chips. Advantages include (but are not limited to) configurable PDOs, compatibility with various mainstream protocols, CDP mode, protections, and GPIO pins. In addition, we discuss customized solutions for the MP5031 using the MP4247 and MP2491C. Explore MPS’s power management solutions and broad portfolio of buck-boost converters that offer design flexibility, superior performance, and high power efficiency.

Throughout this three-part series, we went into depth on measuring high-frequency, CM current, voltage, and impedance in a flyback converter topology. By reviewing the basic principles of radiated EMI and addressing sources of measurement errors, we successfully obtained the CM impedance and CM noise voltage in flyback converters. In summary, accurate radiated EMI analysis prevents common mistakes when measuring key parameters, including voltage, current, impedance.

This article introduces a ferrite bead solution to avoid CM current measurement errors that arise from the influence of coupling and grounded impedance. In continuation of our analysis of measuring high-frequency, CM current, we also cover how to obtain CM impedance using a network analysis model, π model, and by calculating the primary CM voltage.

With the increasing demand of battery-based applications, accurate SoC estimation is crucial for effective battery management. In this article, we discuss common challenges to estimating SoC and expanded on the voltage-current hybrid method with the MPF4279x series, a new family of fuel gauges designed for a wide range of applications. Explore MPS’s robust portfolio of battery management solutions for more charging solutions.

This article introduces the concept of SoC estimates, as well as the challenges in obtaining an accurate SoC. We also discuss one method to estimate SoC. Part II will expand on the other two methods and explain the benefits of using the MPF4279x series to accurately measure the SoC.

MPS continues to launch reliable and efficient products for medium- and high-power power supply applications. This article introduces a variety of devices, such as a totem-pole PFC controller, isolated power supply module, and an isolated current sensor. The broad selection of MPS products helps power designers advance power supply solutions with improved performance and response, in addition to smaller size, lower cost, and shorter development cycle.

In this article, we review MPS optical module solutions to achieve high-speed optical communication in the F5G gigabit era. These solutions include the MPM38x4C series (including the MPM3814C, MPM3824C, and MPM3834C), MPM3860, MPM4710, MP5418 and MP5418A, and the MP8833A. In addition, MPS provides solutions for laser diodes that convert electrical signals into optical signals, such as VCSEL, DFB, and EML. For more information, explore MPS’s robust portfolio of power modules and monolithic design of optical modules.

In this article, we reviewed the features and advantages of the MP188xx family, a series of isolated gate drivers including the MP18831, MP18851, and MP18871. Isolated gate drivers are critical to driving switch tubes in power systems. To learn more about MPS isolation products, read our article on MPS’s isolated power solutions that promote carbon neutrality.

To advance green electricity and other renewable energy initiatives, MPS provides a variety of solutions to maintain uninterrupted system operation under various lighting conditions. In this article, we introduce the MP2731 as a photovoltaic charging solution that overcomes the limitations of common applications. Explore MPS’s other battery management solutions that offer fast charging, accuracy, safety, and easy customization.

This article covers the evolution of the PoE standard and the features offered by the MP8030, such as IEEE 802.3af/at/bt functionality. The MP8030 is an excellent bt solution with benefits including simplified design, high efficiency, flexible isolation design options, excellent thermal performance, and EMI compliance.

MPS has accumulated a comprehensive portfolio of products in the AC/DC field, with popular power solutions such as the MPX2002 and the HR1211. As the requirements of switching power supplies become more complex, MPS will meet consumer demands with increasingly efficient and advanced products. To read about the carbon-free era and the issues designers face in this era, see Part I of this series.

As the world trends toward carbon neutrality, designers will have to meet increasing demands for highly efficient power supplies that are smaller and more effective. MPS is making it simple to meet these increasingly stringent requirements with our small and efficient AC/DC power supplies, such as the MPX2001. This article introduced the issues faced by power supply designers and a few high-level ways to mitigate these problems. Part II will discuss how MPS is directly facing these problems with an in-depth look at our latest products.

The integration of capacitive isolation surpasses the expectations for traditional solutions that use optocouplers. In particular, flyback controllers such as the MPX2002 and MPX2003 demonstrate the effectiveness of integrated solutions with their tiny size, high efficiency, and layout flexibility. Overall, integration provides multiple benefits, such as more accurate synchronization between the SR and primary-side switching, reduced component count, and a more compact layout. In addition, these solutions enable the implementation of a more advanced control scheme to further improve efficiency and power density, which will pave the way for future high-power density adapters.

MPS’s battery charger solutions cover a wide range of high-performance ICs that can complement any battery powered application from single-cell chargers to battery chargers with two series cells or more than three series cell chargers. There are many variables to consider when deciding on a battery charger IC, such as the charging profile, charger topology (e.g. switching or linear chargers), power-path management structure, battery cell configurations, and safety features (e.g. watchdog timer and JEITA temperature monitoring). Once a designer understands how these parameters affect their system and the specifications of their battery, they will be able to select the optimal battery charger IC.

Following our review of primary and secondary power supplies in Part I, Part II proposes solutions for requirement challenges faced by camera power supplies and USB charging. The MPQ8873-AEC1 is used as a solution for surround-view camera modules, while the MPQ4228-C-AEC1 is used to mitigate USB charging challenges. MPS offers a robust and flexible portfolio of products that provide numerous advantages for the design of modern car infotainment systems.

Power supply design is an important consideration for developing advanced car infotainment systems. This article reviews the requirements and advantages of primary power supplies with the MPQ4436A and secondary power supplies with the MPQ2166A. Part II will address challenges for camera power supplies and USB charging.

MPS is committed to introducing isolated power modules that meet the growing demands for safety, power density, and reliability. In this article, we discuss how the MID06W0505A-3 overcomes the limitations of traditional power modules, in addition to addressing challenges such as magnetic interference and fluctuating V_OUT. These are all key considerations for powering various signal isolator and industry applications.

This article discusses the features of the popular HR1211, which offers flexibility, stability, and fast transient response. It then addresses the challenges of speed reduction during multi-port fast-charge by analyzing Innosecco’s 200W fast-charge solution that uses the HR1211 and MP6924. MPS continues to lead the market with cutting-edge power solutions that meet consumer demands for greater power and efficiency.

This article reviews the basic principles of radiated EMI, discusses the key parameters of the radiation model (i.e. the antenna impedance), and describes a method to calculate radiated EMI. Then this article examines the traditional method to measure ICM in a flyback converter topology.

Protecting SSDs against sudden power failure is critical to maintain the stable operation of many devices connected in series. MPS continues to expand on this market by launching energy storage solutions, such as the MP5515, which are designed to protect solid-state drives against sudden power failure and ensure long-term stable operation.

Regardless of what design parameter needs to be optimized, MPS has a wide variety of solutions that can be optimized for thermals or smaller solution size. The adaptability of these MPS solutions ensure that there will always be integrated, high power density products ready to meet the ever-increasing specifications and needs of the quickly growing power management industry. These devices provide configurable parameters, uniquely small package sizes, and innovative features for a flexible design.

This article uses simulations and key comparison parameters to illustrate the main characteristics of interleaved boost, totem-pole, and interleaved totem-pole PFC topologies, with the intent of helping designers select the best topology for their application. The simplicity of boost PFC topology has made it the go-to solution for most designers. However, boost PFC suffers from lower efficiency in high-power applications. In these cases, a totem-pole PFC topology may be preferable despite the added complexity. The introduction of integrated totem-pole controllers such as the MPF32010 have greatly simplified the implementation of totem-pole PFC converters.

Due to the demanding performance requirements of server systems, multi-phase buck converters are necessary in most server and computing designs in order to meet transient response requirements and be able to withstand large currents. The MP2965 dual-channel, multi-phase controller offers great design flexibility and a fast transient response with minimal output capacitors, and the MP86945A power stage integrates drivers and MOSFET to ensure high efficiency and performance.

In this article, we review the advantages of the MP6540 series, including the MP6540A, MP6540H, and the MP6540HA. Advantages include — but are not limited to — high integration, excellent heat dissipation, adaptability, and fast current measurement.

MPS’s improved Design Assistant provides strategic advantages that shorten the development process. This article explores AC/DC Design Assistant with the MPX2001, and verifies its set-up process and functionality. Moreover, the MPS website includes Design Assistant files for other circuits, such as LLC applications and LR design.

In this article, we review the MPQ3367’s available dimming modes to regulate the output current, frequency spread spectrum for EMC performance, and high efficiency due to the integrated low on resistance MOSFET. As one of MPS’s leading backlight chips, the MPQ3367 effectively achieves a fully functional, integrated, and high-power solution.

This article covers a basic understanding of critical automotive transient conditions that must be addressed by a typical automotive module to allow an automotive system engineer to design a robust solution. While designing a reliable power circuit for extreme conditions can be challenging, robust automotive components such as the MPQ4316-AEC1 (a buck converter with a wide V_IN), MPQ8875A-AEC1 (a buck-boost converter with a wide V_IN), and MPQ7200-AEC1 (an LED driver with a wide V_IN) offer excellent performance and safety with their ability to handle dynamic environments.

When using magnetic sensors to implement HMI dials and buttons, there are various options to consider when designing the solution, such as decoupling the mechanics of the haptic elements and the electronics, as well as giving plenty of space to the surrounding mechanics. This article outlines simple design guidelines to engineer a contactless, cost-effective HMI solution with unparalleled longevity and low-power consumption.

This article explores how copper layering is recommended for EMI testing, as it can improve EMI results. In terms of inductance, copper essentially has no effect on shielded inductors, so copper layering is only recommended for unshielded inductors. Given the minimal effect of copper on inductors, it is ultimately up to the engineer to determine whether to use copper according to the application and required specifications.

This article discusses how to recognize subharmonic oscillations using the time domain and frequency domains. We also covered how slope compensation can reduce subharmonic oscillations despite its negative effects. MPS provides leading power solutions for DC/DC stability, including our Isolated DC/DC Converters & Modules.

This article explores how RCD circuit design can be used as a simple and effective suppression method to control flyback primary-side ringing. By carefully selecting the resistor and capacitor, the clamp circuit can better absorb the leakage inductance energy. In addition, the RCD clamp circuit does not consume the main excitation inductance capacity, and reduces both the peak voltage and the power device’s switching stress. To learn more about RCD circuit designs, read our Part I and Part II series on designing an active-clamp forward converter.

This article explores how to design switching power supply designs with three different frequency ranges. With the popularity of new power supply devices, power designers are seeking approaches to further improve functionality and simplify the design. MPS offers innovative power solutions that enable switching power supply designs for fixed, variable, and high-frequency power supply applications.

This article covers approaches to calculate the core circuit indicators that are influenced by switching frequency, and addresses the different types of loss that result from higher frequencies. Part II will discuss practical application scenarios with three different frequency ranges. By understanding the fundamentals of the switching power supply frequency design, power engineers can improve the power quality and the efficiency of energy storage components.

This article discusses a high-frequency CM model throughout Part I and Part II. This article compares three EMI reduction methods and examines the conducted EMI’s resonant peaks. As shown by these articles, excessive EMI under a long-line load can be effectively controlled for various automotive electronics applications by using strategic circuit modifications.

This article completes our CM EMI model from Part I by calculating for the distribution of current and voltage, losses on the transmission line, inductance, capacitance, final output line impedance, and frequency. It goes further in depth with the transmission line model to obtain the output long-line impedance to ground.

This article reviews the test device’s long-term load conducted EMI results, and applies the substitution and superposition theorems to develop the CM EMI model. It also considers the problem of near-field coupling, which can be broadly categorized between electric field coupling and magnetic field coupling. 

This article reviews basic methods to measure power ripples, and explores how to use voltage probes and coaxial cables. Power ripple generation and testing is crucial for switch-mode designs with stringent requirements, general switching ripple applications, and applications that require a suitable ripple value across the full bandwidth.

This article reviews strategic considerations to help time when a secondary-side synchronous rectifier opens and shuts down. It also observes the effectiveness of quick shutdown technology with the MP9989. Learn how secondary-side synchronous rectifier solutions using a MOSFET tube are able to overcome the major challenges with standard rectifier solutions to create ultra-small, fast charge solutions.

This article discusses the transition from embedded ECU systems to centralized DCU systems, and explored MPS’s power subsystem scheme that integrates various subsystems and achieves scalability. With the increasing electrification of vehicles and more advanced control systems, MPS offers innovative solutions and a broad product portfolio to help automotive customers efficiently upgrade their automotive systems.

This article highlighted available options for accurate current measurement, and clarified how to select the best current-sense solution for an application. It is important to consider technological options early in the design process, and to note the specifics of each solution, such as power supply requirements and the achievable output signal range, to create the most efficient solution possible. The MCS180x Hall-effect sensors from MPS were used to demonstrate how current-mirroring technology helps designers improve system-level performance while reducing power losses and system complexity.

MOSFETs are an integral part of nearly all electronic systems. Therefore, there is a constant push towards innovating MOSFET structures, discovering new materials and designing circuits with the aim of overcoming current physical limitations while making transistors smaller and smaller. MPS has made significant steps in this field, developing power conversion modules with power switches capable of withstanding up to 100A of continuous current, such as the MPM3695-100. To learn more, visit our website and explore our articles, reference designs, and application notes.

In this article, we reviewed a secondary-side synchronous rectifier design scheme with the MP9989 to successfully turn on the MOS tube and reduce excessive heat. Part II will dive into the opening and shutdown process of the synchronous rectifier, while also discussing the advantages of quick shutdown technology.