STMicroelectronics announces polyphase digital controller

     STMicroelectronics' new step-down controllers, PM6773 and PM6776, address the need for more accurate and energy efficient power delivery in today's server and data center equipment, which uses the latest low-voltage, high-current microprocessors, as well as ASics and field programming devices. Designed specifically for Intel Intel Skylake cpus and DDR4 memory, the new ics are the latest additions to ST's Intel VR13 platform digital step-down controller product family.

     The two VR13 Serial Voltage Identification (SVID) protocol-compatible ics are 12V input voltage, dual-channel, multiphase 3+1 (PM6773) and 6+1 (PM6776) step-down controllers with configurable parameters via the PMBus™ protocol and built-in non-volatile memory (NVM) to store configuration data. The PMBus communication interface also supports the reporting of parameters such as voltage, current, power consumption, temperature, and error status. In addition, the two chips also integrate a practical black box recording function.

     The controllers use ST's high-performance Voltage Controlled On-Time Fixed (STVCOT) digital control loop technology for fast transient response and low output capacitance, as well as variable frequency diode simulation (VFDE) and dynamic Phase management (DPM) to ensure high energy efficiency in all load conditions. The new controller also integrates comprehensive protection features, including load overcurrent protection, undervoltage and overvoltage lock protection, and feedback break protection.

     Using the new step-down controller chip PM677x and advanced software tools available from ST to all selected customers, engineers can speed up Skylake Vr13 regulator design and set and monitor all key parameters, including control loop response, load lines and switching frequencies.