Analog ICs for Low Voltage Sys

Analog ICs for Low Voltage Systems

Abstract: This article about low-voltage ICs discusses many types of low-voltage ICs, including voltage regulators, data converters, op amps and current monitors, comparators, microprocessor supervisors, voltage references, analog switches, and interface transceivers. It also present information on power savings and how to manage issues related to low-voltage operation. Introduction Low voltages are most appropriate for use in systems where size, weight, and power consumption are especially critical such as PDAs, cell phones, and other battery-operated portable equipment. Low voltages also benefit line-powered systems because the lower power dissipation associated with lower voltage operation allows the use of smaller power supplies, heat-sinks, and fans.Low-voltage ICs are available in many of Maxim's product families including op amps, comparators, microprocessor supervisors, interface, data converters, analog switches and multiplexers, voltage references, DC-DC converters, digital potentiometers, and timing components such as real-time clocks.This discussion covers many of the analog IC families mentioned above, the power savings inherent in their operation, and how to handle some of the issues associated with low-voltage operation. It also presents methods for generating the lower voltages from a 5V supply. Table 1 presents a selection of Maxim's 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.0V, and 3.3V integrated circuits.Table 1. A Selection of Maxim's Low-Voltage Parts Category 1.8V 2.5V 3V 3.3V µP Supervisors MAX6326 MAX6742 MAX6745 MAX6745 A/D Converters MAX1122 MAX1462 MAX1115 MAX1144 Analog Switches MAX4695 MAX4644 MAX4653 MAX4592 Charge-Pump Voltage Converters — MAX619 MAX1673 MAX1730 Inductor-Based, Step-Up Regulators MAX1687 MAX1706 MAX1678 MAX1709 Inductor-Based, Step-Down Regulators MAX1928 MAX1928 MAX1921 MAX1921 Comparators, Fast LMX331 MAX997 MAX997 MAX997 Comparators, Low Current MAX9020 MAX9020 MAX9020 MAX9020 Comparators, Low Offset MAX966