Summary of DC/DC buck power modules fit tight spaces
Micrel introduces compact step-down power modules integrating synchronous buck regulators and inductors in QFN packages. The 1-A MIC33163/33164 and 2-A MIC33263/33264 support 2.7 V to 5.5 V input, offering up to 93% efficiency with FleaFET and HyperLight Load technologies. These modules enable fast transient response, reducing board space to 4.6×7 mm, and operate at frequencies up to 4 MHz.
Parts used in the Micrel Low-Profile Step-Down Power Modules:
- Synchronous buck regulator
- Inductor
- QFN package (2.5×3×1.1-mm)
- QFN package (2.5×3×1.9-mm)
- FleaFET technology
- HyperLight Load control architecture
Micrel’s family of low-profile step-down power modules integrates a synchronous buck regulator with an inductor into a 
2.5×3×1.1-mm QFN package for the 1-A MIC33163/33164 and a 2.5×3×1.9-mm QFN package for the 2-A MIC33263/33264. The modules offer 100% duty cycle operation and accommodate an input voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V.
Incorporating Micrel’s FleaFET technology and HyperLight Load control architecture, the devices can operate up to 4 MHz with up to 88% efficiency at 10 mA and up to 93% peak efficiency. This architecture also provides fast transient response that minimizes output capacitance, thereby reducing total board space to just 4.6×7 mm. With such a small footprint and 100% duty cycle capability, these power modules offer an efficient alternative to linear regulators.
The MIC33163/33164 is specified for a junction temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, while the MIC33263/33264 is specified from -40°C to +85°C. Starting prices for the MIC33163/33164 and the MIC33263/33264 are $1.32 and $1.70, respectively, in lots of 1000 units.
For more detail: DC/DC buck power modules fit tight spaces
- What voltage range do these modules support?
The devices accommodate an input voltage range of 2.7 V to 5.5 V. - How efficient are the MIC33163 and MIC33263 series?
They offer up to 88% efficiency at 10 mA and up to 93% peak efficiency. - Can these modules operate at high frequencies?
Yes, the devices can operate up to 4 MHz. - What is the total board space required for this design?
The architecture reduces total board space to just 4.6×7 mm. - Are these modules suitable for extreme temperatures?
The MIC33163/33164 operates from -40°C to +125°C, while the MIC33263/33264 operates from -40°C to +85°C. - What technology enables the fast transient response?
Incorporating FleaFET technology and HyperLight Load control architecture provides fast transient response. - How does this compare to linear regulators?
These power modules offer an efficient alternative to linear regulators due to their small footprint and 100% duty cycle capability. - What is the starting price for the 1-A modules?
The starting price for the MIC33163/33164 is $1.32 in lots of 1000 units. - Does the module integrate passive components?
Yes, the family integrates a synchronous buck regulator with an inductor into a single package.
