Analog Circuit Design

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Powering complex FPGA-based systems using highly integrated DC/DC μModule regulator systemsPart 1 of 2 Circuit and electrical performance

Alan Chern and Afshin Odabaee

In a recent discussion with a system designer, the requirement for his power supply was to regulate 1.5V and deliver up to 40A of current to a load that consisted of four FPGAs. This is up to 60W of power that must be delivered in a small area with the lowest profile (height) possible to allow a steady flow of air for cooling. The power supply had to be surface mountable and operate at high enough efficiency to minimize heat dissipation. He also demanded the simplest possible solution so his time could be dedicated to the more complex tasks. Aside from precise electrical performance, ...