Optimizing Embedded Systems Power Requirements with Hybrid PMIC Design

White Paper Overview

Building blocks of modern embedded systems, including processors, SoCs, system DRAM, non-volatile memories, sensors, and connectivity modules, have varied power requirements. On one extreme, a system power management IC (PMIC) integrates all or almost all of the required power rails. On the other hand, individual power rails are implemented using discrete dc/dc and LDOs. Thus, the best approach will depend on particular use cases and users’ criteria. PMICs tend to offer better performance and controllability in a smaller footprint, while discrete solutions are more cost-effective. However, there is a “hybrid” approach to achieve the best of both worlds — using ‘small’ PMICs to implement power rails for performance and programmability, and discrete for everything else.

This whitepaper from ROHM Semiconductor explores the benefits of using the approach described above.