AU8030
High-performance power stage driver with integrated MOSFETs and current sensing for VRM applications.
Product Overview
Description
The AU8030 is a dual-phase power stage driver designed for high-current VRM applications. It integrates low-side and high-side MOSFETs with drivers and current sensing in a compact package.
With support for switching frequencies up to 2MHz, the AU8030 enables high-bandwidth transient response for processor power delivery. The integrated current sensing eliminates the need for external sense resistors.
The device is designed to work with the AU8020 VRM controller to provide complete multi-phase power solutions. It supports various control interfaces including PWM and SVID.
Product Series
AU
Primary Application
Server CPU power
Key Features
- Dual-phase power stage
- Integrated MOSFETs and drivers
- Built-in current sensing
- High-frequency operation
- Compatible with AU8020 controller
- Thermal monitoring
Specifications
| Input Voltage | 4.5V to 16V |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 60A per phase |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 2MHz |
| Efficiency | Up to 95% |
| Current Sense | Integrated |
| Package | PQFN-56 |
Applications
Server CPU power
Electronic system design
GPU power delivery
Electronic system design
FPGA core power
Electronic system design
High-current DC-DC
Power conversion and supply
Telecom power systems
Electronic system design
FAE Expert Insights
"The AU8030 is an excellent power stage for high-current VRM designs. The integration level is impressive - MOSFETs, drivers, and current sense all in one package. I've used it with the AU8020 controller in server designs delivering 120A+ with excellent results. The current sensing accuracy is good, typically within 5% of actual current. Thermal performance is solid with proper PCB copper area. The 2MHz switching capability allows for smaller inductors and faster transient response. One tip: use plenty of vias to inner ground planes for best thermal performance. Overall, a great power stage solution."
Highly integrated dual-phase power stage with current sensing
— David Liu, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I parallel multiple AU8030 devices?
The AU8030 supports multi-phase operation when used with the AU8020 controller. Each AU8030 operates as an independent phase with current balancing managed by the controller. Connect the PWM outputs from the AU8020 to each AU8030, and tie the current sense outputs together. The controller automatically balances current between phases.
Use AU8020 controller to manage multiple AU8030 phases with automatic current balancing.
What is the thermal performance?
Thermal performance depends on operating conditions: (1) At 30A per phase with 500kHz switching - approximately 60°C temperature rise; (2) At 60A per phase - approximately 85°C temperature rise; (3) Use 1000mm²+ copper area for best thermal performance; (4) Implement thermal vias to inner ground planes. The device includes thermal monitoring with shutdown protection at 150°C junction temperature.
Use 1000mm²+ copper and thermal vias; expect 60-85°C rise depending on load.
Can I use the AU8030 without the AU8020 controller?
The AU8030 is designed to work with the AU8020 controller for optimal performance. While it can operate with other PWM controllers, some features like current balancing and protection may not function properly. For best results and full feature support, use the AU8030 with the AU8020 controller.
Use with AU8020 controller for full feature support and optimal performance.
What is the maximum switching frequency?
The AU8030 supports switching frequencies up to 2MHz. Higher frequencies allow smaller inductors and faster transient response but increase switching losses. Typical operating frequencies are 500kHz to 1MHz for best efficiency. At 2MHz, the switching losses are higher but the transient response is excellent for demanding processor applications. The controller automatically adjusts dead time to maintain efficiency across the frequency range. Use lower frequencies for high-current applications to minimize losses.
Use 500kHz-1MHz for best efficiency; 2MHz for fastest transient response.
What inductor value should I use?
Inductor selection depends on switching frequency and current: (1) At 500kHz - use 0.5-1.0μH for 30-60A applications; (2) At 1MHz - use 0.2-0.5μH; (3) At 2MHz - use 0.1-0.2μH; (4) Saturation current must exceed peak phase current by 20-30%; (5) DCR should be <1mΩ for best efficiency. Shielded inductors are recommended to minimize EMI. The inductor ripple current is typically 20-40% of DC current. Lower inductance improves transient response but increases ripple current and output capacitance requirements.
Select inductance based on frequency: 0.5-1.0μH at 500kHz, 0.1-0.2μH at 2MHz.