EPC, Analog Devices partner on 2-MHz buck converter reference design

EPC and Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI) have collaborated on a dual-output synchronous buck converter reference design board that enables up to 2-MHz switching frequency for high-power-density DC/DC conversion. The EPC9160 development board leverages EPC’s EPC2055 enhancement-mode GaN (eGaN) FET, which delivers fast switching and high efficiency, and ADI’s LTC7890 two-phase analog buck controller with integrated GaN drivers.

The EPC9160 converts an input voltage of 9 V to 24 V to a 3.3 V or 5 V output voltage and delivers up to 15 A continuous current for both outputs. Thanks to the high switching frequency, the converter size is small, measuring 23 mm × 22 mm for both outputs, and the inductor height is 3 mm, noted EPC.

Click for a larger image. (Source: EPC)

The high density and thickness of the design, together with the-2 MHz switching frequency make this solution suited for automotive console applications, where 2-MHz switching frequency is preferred, said EPC. It also is suited for computing, industrial, consumer, and telecom power systems that require a small size and a very thin profile.

The efficiency of the EPC9160 is greater than 93% for a 5-V output and 24-V input. The board offers UVLO, over-current protection, and power good output. Other features include light load operating mode and adjustable dead time.

Key features of the EPC2055 40-V eGaN FETs include a 3 mOhm max R_DS(on), 6.6 nC Q_G, 0.7 nC Q_GD, 1.3 nC Q_OSS, and zero Q_RR in a small 2.5 × 1.5 mm footprint. It can deliver up to 29 A continuous current and 161 A peak current and exhibits very small switching losses at 2 MHz switching frequency, according to EPC.

The LTC7890 100-V low Iq, dual, 2-phase synchronous step-down controller is optimized to drive EPC eGaN FETs, said EPC, and integrates a half-bridge driver and smart bootstrap diode. It offers optimized near-zero deadtime or programmable deadtime and programmable switching frequency up to 3 MHz. In addition, the quiescent current of 5 µA (V_IN = 48 V, V_OUT = 5 V, CH1 only) is said to enable very low standby power consumption and excellent light load efficiency.

The EPC9160 demonstration board from EPC is priced at $300.00 each. It is available for immediate delivery from Digi-Key.