Multi-Output Regulator suits automotive applications.

Press Release Summary:




Targeted for use in under-hood environments in 14 or 24 V automotive systems, A8450 incorporates controlled power-up sequencing and power-on-reset functionality as well as fault detection and reporting. IC features 4 regulator outputs: 2 low-voltage outputs that provide DSP or microprocessor core and I/O voltages, and 2 linear 5 V tracking regulators. Both feature current foldback circuitry. Product has 6-45 V input voltage and 150°C operation ratings.



Original Press Release:



Allegro Microsystems, Inc. Announces Automotive Multi-Output Regulator Targeted at Emerging Applications



Worcester, MA - Jan. 20, 2005 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of a new automotive-grade multi-output regulator IC that features four regulator outputs. Two low-voltage outputs (using external pass transistors) provide DSP or microprocessor core and I/O voltages, while two linear 5 V tracking regulators, which track within 0.5% over temperature, can be used for driving sensors and other 5 V peripherals. Both 5V outputs feature current foldback circuitry to protect against any short-to-ground events. The A8450 incorporates controlled power-up sequencing and power-on-reset (POR) functionality, as well as extensive fault detection and reporting.

By combining multiple voltage regulators on a single IC, the A8450 saves board space and is more cost competitive when compared to multiple-IC solutions. The 6 V to 45 V input voltage (Vbat) and 150°C (Tj) operation allows the IC to be used in severe under-hood environments in either 14 V or 24 V automotive systems. The A8450 can be rated to these high temperatures and voltages by utilizing an integrated buck switching pre-regulator, which substantially increases the thermal efficiency of the IC over standard linear output regulators.

The A8450 can be enabled/disabled with one of two input pins. A high voltage (ENBAT) input allows enable/disable from a high-voltage ignition signal, or a logic input (ENB) allows enable/disable via a logic signal from the microcontroller or DSP. In the disabled mode, the A8450 draws less than 10 uA of quiescent current. A power-on-reset (FOR) block monitors the supply voltages and provides a signal that can be used to reset a DSP or microcontroller.

The A8450 is manufactured using Allegro's ABCD (Allegro Bipolar CMOS DMOS) process and is offered in an industry-standard 24-lead SOIC batwing package (suffix 'LB'). Pricing is $2.19 per part for quantities of 5,000.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a supplier of advanced mixed-signal power semiconductors and Hall-effect sensors targeted toward the automotive, communications, computer/office automation, consumer and industrial markets. It maintains a leadership position in the integrated magnetic sensor and integrated motor driver product segments. With over 2,000 employees, Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, MA. Further information about Allegro, as well as free samples on our products, can be found at www.allegromicro.com.

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