Texas Instruments has introduced three single-chip, PMICs (power management ICs) for powering the supply rails in SSDs, and hybrid drives. The PMICs integrate three programmable 2.25MHz DC/DC step-down converters that support core processor, memory and I/O voltages, along with a 3V, 250mA low-dropout regulator for host controller reference. Each PMIC functions cooperatively with a controller IC to optimise the supply voltage for low power conditions and features a deep sleep mode that reduces application specific IC voltage and turns off the flash and I/O rails, according to the company. The PMICs integrate three SPI- programmable buck regulators with internal FETs. They feature current limit, thermal and power data protection. The LM10504 and LM10506 PMICs are suitable for space-constrained SSDs including micro SATA, half-slim SATA, mini PCIe and integrated SSD. They are available in a 34pin micro surface mount device package measuring 2.8x2.8mm with 0.4mm pitch. The LM10504 PMIC is also suitable for 3.5, 2.5 and 1.8inch SSD form factors. The 2A LM10503 PMIC is suitable for power-hungry controllers used in enterprise SSDs. It features the company's National PowerWise adaptive voltage scaling technology for reducing the power consumption of SSD controllers. It is available in a 36pin leadless leadframe package, which measures 6x6mm.
