How do you choose the right power management ICs for different applications and scenarios?

1 Power requirements

The first step is to identify the power requirements of your application, such as the input voltage range, the output voltage levels, the current consumption, the peak and average power, and the battery capacity. You also need to consider the dynamic changes in the power demand, such as the sleep and wake modes, the switching frequencies, and the transient responses. Based on these parameters, you can narrow down the PMICs that can meet your power specifications and budget.

2 Integration and scalability

The next factor is the level of integration and scalability of the PMICs. Some PMICs are highly integrated, meaning they have multiple functions and features in one chip, such as buck and boost converters, linear regulators, battery chargers, LED drivers, and protection circuits. These PMICs can simplify the design, reduce the board space, and lower the cost. However, they may also have some drawbacks, such as limited flexibility, higher heat dissipation, and compatibility issues. Other PMICs are more modular, meaning they have fewer functions and features in one chip, but they can be combined with other PMICs or discrete components to achieve the desired functionality. These PMICs can offer more flexibility, customization, and scalability, but they may also increase the complexity, size, and cost of the design.

3 Efficiency and performance

The third factor is the efficiency and performance of the PMICs. Efficiency refers to how well the PMICs can convert and deliver the power to the load with minimal losses. Performance refers to how well the PMICs can handle the variations in the input and output voltages, currents, and temperatures, as well as the noise and interference. You want to choose the PMICs that can provide high efficiency and performance for your application, while also minimizing the trade-offs between them. For example, some PMICs may have higher efficiency at low loads, but lower efficiency at high loads, or vice versa. Some PMICs may have better performance at high frequencies, but higher noise and ripple, or vice versa.

4 Features and functions

The fourth factor is the features and functions of the PMICs. Depending on your application, you may need some additional features and functions from your PMICs, such as voltage monitoring, sequencing, soft start, power-on reset, fault detection, overcurrent protection, thermal shutdown, and so on. These features and functions can enhance the reliability, safety, and functionality of your system, but they may also consume more power, increase the size, and add to the cost of the PMICs. Therefore, you need to weigh the benefits and costs of these features and functions for your application.

5 Compatibility and availability

The fifth factor is the compatibility and availability of the PMICs. You need to make sure that the PMICs you choose are compatible with your system architecture, your microcontroller or processor, your communication interface, your sensors and actuators, and your software and firmware. You also need to check the availability of the PMICs in the market, their lead times, their prices, their quality, and their support. You want to choose the PMICs that are easy to source, integrate, program, and debug, while also meeting your performance and budget expectations.

6 Case studies and examples

The final factor is the case studies and examples of the PMICs. One of the best ways to learn how to choose the right PMICs for different applications and scenarios is to look at how other designers and engineers have done it. You can find many case studies and examples of power management hardware solutions online, in journals, in books, or in forums. You can also consult with experts, peers, or vendors for advice and feedback. By studying the case studies and examples of the PMICs, you can gain insights, tips, best practices, and lessons learned from real-world applications and scenarios.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?