5.5V, 4A, Low IQ Synchronous Buck Converter with Versatile I2C Interface from Diodes Incorporated is Optimized for Efficiency and Size in Automotive POL Systems

Diodes Incorporated (Diodes) (Nasdaq: DIOD) today introduces the AP61406Q, a new 5.5V, 4A member with I²C interface of its low quiescent current (I_Q), automotive-compliant* synchronous buck converters. The I²C interface allows the programming of various parameters enabling it to meet the growing demand for compact design and high efficiency in various automotive point-of-load (POL) applications, including infotainment, instrument clusters, telematics, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

A key advantage of the AP61406Q is its I²C 3.0-compatible serial interface, which supports SCL clock rates up to 3.4MHz. This interface enables programmability for various parameters, including PFM/PWM modes, frequencies (1MHz, 1.5MHz, 2MHz, 2.5MHz), and output currents (1A/2A/3A/4A). The device also provides 20mV increment V_OUT adjustability and provides fault status reports.

Optimized for high power density automotive POL applications, the AP61406Q is available in a W-QFN1520-8/SWP (Type UX) package, enabling it to operate at high ambient temperatures. The device also features a proprietary gate driver scheme that effectively resists switching node ringing without compromising MOSFET turn-on and turn-off times, thereby reducing high frequency radiated EMI noise.

The AP61406Q operates with an input voltage range of 2.3V to 5.5V. It integrates a 75mΩ high-side and a 33mΩ low-side power MOSFET to provide high-efficiency step-down DC-DC conversion. Its adoption of constant on-time (COT) control minimizes external component count, facilitates loop stabilization, and results in low output voltage ripple.

The multi-function enable (EN) input also provides control of the mode of operation. This capability enables flexibility for low I_Q (20µA), high-load efficiency in fixed PFM mode or equal ripple across load conditions in PWM mode. Additional features include an accurate power good (PG) indicator with an internal 5MΩ pull-up resistor with a ±5% window comparator circuit, which reduces bill-of-materials (BOM) costs.

The AP61406Q has high-side and low-side current sense protection during output short circuits, increasing its reliability in automotive POL applications. Other protection features include undervoltage lockout (UVLO), V_IN overvoltage protection (OVP), peak and valley current limiting, and thermal shutdown.

The AP61406Q is available at $0.24 in 1,000-piece quantities. A standard compliance version, AP61406, is available and suitable for industrial and consumer applications.

For further information, please visit: https://www.diodes.com/products/power-management/dc-dc-converters/integrated-power-stage/buck-converter/

About Diodes Incorporated

Diodes Incorporated (Nasdaq: DIOD), a Standard and Poor’s SmallCap 600 and Russell 3000 Index company, delivers high-quality semiconductor products to the world’s leading companies in the automotive, industrial, computing, consumer electronics, and communications markets. We leverage our expanded product portfolio of analog and discrete power solutions combined with leading-edge packaging technology to meet customers’ needs. Our broad range of application-specific products and solutions-focused sales, coupled with global operations including engineering, testing, manufacturing, and customer service, enable us to be a premier provider for high-volume, high-growth markets. For more information, visit www.diodes.com.

*Automotive-compliant - AEC qualified, manufactured in facilities certified to IATF 16949, supporting PPAP documents.

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