PrideSilicon Power Management

PrideSilicon offers two main types of power management ICs: Synchronous Buck Converters for high-efficiency step-down conversion with output currents up to 3A and efficiencies up to 95%

and Low-Dropout Regulators (LDOs) for clean, low-noise power supply with high PSRR and fast transient response. Buck converters are ideal for battery-powered applications and high-current digital loads. LDOs excel in analog and RF applications requiring clean power with minimal noise.

Choose buck converters for high-efficiency applications and LDOs for low-noise analog power. Contact our FAE team for power supply design guidance.

Buck converter efficiency is calculated as the ratio of output power to input power: Efficiency = (Vout × Iout) / (Vin × Iin) × 100%. PrideSilicon buck converters achieve up to 95% efficiency at optimal operating points. Efficiency varies with load current, input voltage, and component selection. Light load efficiency is enhanced by automatic power-save modes that reduce switching losses. For battery-powered applications, consider both active mode efficiency and quiescent current during standby.

Select converters with efficiency curves matching your load profile. Our FAE team can help optimize component selection for maximum efficiency.

Synchronous buck converters use a MOSFET instead of a diode for the low-side switch, reducing conduction losses and improving efficiency, especially at low output voltages. Non-synchronous converters use a diode, which is simpler but less efficient. PrideSilicon's synchronous buck converters offer higher efficiency (up to 95%), better thermal performance, and the ability to sink current for faster transient response. The integrated MOSFETs also reduce component count and board space.

Select synchronous converters for high-efficiency and low-voltage applications. Contact our FAE team for converter selection guidance.

LDO selection depends on several factors: 1) Input-output voltage differential (dropout voltage) - select LDOs with dropout voltage lower than your minimum headroom

2) Output current - ensure the LDO can deliver required current with adequate margin

3) Noise and PSRR - for sensitive analog circuits, select low-noise LDOs with high PSRR at relevant frequencies

4) Quiescent current - for battery applications, select low-Iq LDOs

5) Package - consider thermal requirements and board space.

Evaluate dropout voltage, noise requirements, and current needs. Our FAE team can recommend optimal LDOs for your specific application.

Proper PCB layout is critical for switching regulator performance. Key recommendations include: 1) Minimize the loop area formed by input capacitor, high-side switch, and low-side switch to reduce EMI

2) Place input capacitors close to the IC pins

3) Use wide, short traces for high-current paths

4) Keep sensitive analog signals away from switching nodes

5) Use a solid ground plane and multiple vias for thermal management

6) Place output capacitors close to the load for best transient response.

Follow layout guidelines for minimal EMI and optimal performance. Our FAE team can review your PCB layout and provide recommendations.