Power Supply Controller Pin Programming With One Resistor
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional power supply controllers require multiple configuration inputs and external components for setting operating parameters, increasing the cost and complexity of power converters while reducing system reliability due to the need for numerous programming resistors and increased silicon area.
Innovation Solution
A method and controller configuration that uses a single programming pin and resistor to set multiple operating parameters through a reference table and configuration tables, reducing the number of I/O pads and external components required, allowing for more comprehensive Point of Load (POL) controller configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration inputs and external components are used to set operating parameters, then the controller can be configured for different applications, but the cost and complexity increase and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple configuration inputs into a single configuration input by combining multiple operating parameter settings into one composite setting. This allows the controller to be configured for different applications through a single input rather than requiring multiple separate configuration inputs and external components.
Solution Approach 2:
The single configuration input serves multiple functions by encoding different operating parameters (such as switching frequency, duty cycle, voltage thresholds) within a single setting. This universal approach allows one input to replace what would traditionally require multiple dedicated configuration inputs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple programming resistors are used to set parameters, then different operating conditions can be achieved, but the bill of materials cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the function of multiple programming resistors into a single programming resistor. By encoding multiple operating parameters within a single resistance value (or a small range of resistance values), the system eliminates the need for multiple separate resistors, thereby reducing the bill of materials while maintaining the ability to achieve different operating conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple configuration inputs are provided, then comprehensive parameter setting is possible, but silicon area increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple configuration inputs into a single configuration input on the silicon chip. By consolidating what would traditionally require multiple separate input pins and associated circuitry into one input, the design significantly reduces the silicon area required while preserving the capability to configure multiple operating parameters through that single input.
4Manufacturing precision
If numerous configuration components are required, then precise parameter control is achieved, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple configuration components into a single component, thereby reducing the number of potential failure points in the system. By encoding precise parameter control within a single resistor and single input rather than requiring multiple resistors and inputs, the system maintains manufacturing precision while improving reliability through component reduction.
Data Source
AI summary
The present application is directed at pin programming of controllers for power converters and provides for the programming of a plurality of different controller parameters using a single programming resistor. The value of the programming resistor is used as a pointer to select a table storing a plurality of different settings for the controller.