ISL6420A

The ISL6420A simplifies the implementation of a complete control and protection scheme for a high-performance DC/DC buck converter. It is designed to drive N-channel MOSFETs in a synchronous rectified buck topology, the ISL6420A integrates control, output adjustment, monitoring and protection functions into a single package. Additionally, the IC features an external reference voltage tracking mode for externally referenced buck converter applications and DDR termination supplies, as well as a voltage margining mode for system testing in networking DC/DC converter applications.

The ISL6420A provides simple, single feedback loop, voltage mode control with fast transient response. The output voltage of the converter can be precisely regulated to as low as 0.6V, with a maximum tolerance of ±1.0% over temperature and line voltage variations.

The operating frequency is fully adjustable from 100kHz to 1.4MHz. High frequency operation offers cost and space savings.

The error amplifier features a 15MHz gain-bandwidth product and 6V/µs slew rate that enables high converter bandwidth for fast transient response. The PWM duty cycle ranges from 0% to 100% in transient conditions. Selecting the capacitor value from the ENSS pin to ground sets a fully adjustable PWM soft-start. Pulling the ENSS pin LOW disables the controller.

The ISL6420A monitors the output voltage and generates a PGOOD (power good) signal when soft-start sequence is complete and the output is within regulation. A built-in overvoltage protection circuit prevents the output voltage from going above typically 115% of the set point. Protection from overcurrent conditions is provided by monitoring the rDS(ON) of the upper MOSFET to inhibit the PWM operation appropriately. This approach simplifies the implementation and improves efficiency by eliminating the need for a currentsensing resistor.