Micrel Launches New Family of Miniature, Efficient, Low-Profile, DC-DC Power Modules for Space-Constrained Applications

SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 2, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Micrel, Inc. (Nasdaq:MCRL), an industry leader in high performance linear and power solutions, LAN and timing and communications solutions, today introduced the MIC33163/MIC33164 (1A) and MIC33263/MIC33264 (2A) a family of low-profile step down power modules capable of 100 percent duty cycle and operating with an input voltage range from 2.7V to 5.5V.  These compact modules integrate a synchronous buck converter with an inductor into a 2.5mm x 3mm x 1.1mm (MIC33163/4) and 2.5mm x 3mm x 1.9mm (MIC33263/4) QFN package. These complete power solutions are ideal for use in numerous applications including wireless modules, solid state drives, wearable devices, and camera modules.  Incorporating Micrel's proprietary FleaFET™ technology and the Company's HyperLight Load^® control architecture, these devices can operate up to 4MHz with excellent light and full load efficiency (up to 88 percent at 10mA and over 93 percent peak efficiency).  This architecture provides an ultra-fast load transient response that minimizes output capacitance thereby reducing total board space to just 4.6mm x 7mm.  With such a small footprint and 100 percent duty cycle capability, these power modules offer an efficient alternative to linear regulators.  The MIC33163/4  and MIC33263/4 are available in volume with 1,000 quantities pricing starting at $1.32 and $1.70, respectively.   Samples can be ordered on line at: http://www.samplecomponents.com/scripts/samplecenter.dll?micrel.

"The demand for higher performance continues to increase in many applications such as camera modules or solid state drives, while the form factors stay the same or continue to diminish.  This means that designers have less space to fit all the components in these products," noted Brian Hedayati, vice president of marketing for high performance linear and power solutions at Micrel. "Micrel's ultra-compact, low-profile power module solutions are ideal for these space-constrained applications and where busy designers need to complete multiple projects with short design cycle times while addressing EMI issues during the critical development phase.  Micrel's power modules meet the exacting EN55022 class B EMI standard which eliminates the EMI concerns while providing a fast turnkey solution that can be used in multiple designs."  

In addition to offering high efficiency and a small form factor, these modules are fully protected against overcurrent, overvoltage, and thermal faults.  Additional features include adjustable soft-start for controlling in-rush current, an automatic output discharge circuit (MIC33164 /MIC33264), and a power good output.  The MIC33163/MIC33164 are specified for a junction temperature from -40-degC to +125-degC while the MIC33263/MIC33264 are specified from -40-degC to +85-degC.

About Micrel, Inc.
Micrel, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of IC solutions for the worldwide analog, Ethernet and high bandwidth markets.  The Company's products include advanced mixed-signal, analog and power semiconductors; high performance communication, clock management, MEMS-based clock oscillators and crystal-less clock generators, Ethernet switch and physical layer transceiver ICs.  Company customers include leading manufacturers of enterprise, consumer, industrial, mobile, telecommunications, automotive, and computer products.  Corporation headquarters and state-of-the-art wafer fabrication facilities are located in San Jose, CA, with regional sales and support offices and advanced technology design centers situated throughout the Americas, Europe and Asia.  In addition, the Company maintains an extensive network of distributors and reps worldwide.  Web: http://www.micrel.com.

Note: FleaFET is a trademark of Micrel and HyperLight Load is a registered trademark of Micrel.

SOURCE Micrel, Inc.