STMicroelectronics Unveils High Efficiency Miniature Monolithic Buck Converter

STMicroelectronics‘ DCP3601 is a compact monolithic buck converter that integrates extensive features and offers exceptional flexibility, enabling streamlined, low-BOM designs with high conversion efficiency. By incorporating built-in power switches and compensation, it requires just six external components—an inductor, bootstrap, and filter capacitors, and feedback resistors to set the output voltage—simplifying circuit implementation.

With an input voltage range of 3.3V to 36V and a 1A output capability, the DCP3601 efficiently powers low-voltage loads in applications such as smart meters, home appliances, and industrial 24V conversion systems. Synchronous rectification and a fixed 1MHz switching frequency ensure consistently high efficiency across the load spectrum, achieving up to 91% at 600mA with a 12V input and 5V output.

Designed for versatility, the DCP3601 offers multiple variants, allowing designers to choose between forced-PWM operation for noise-sensitive applications or pulse-skipping at light loads for reduced power consumption. Both low-noise and low-power versions are available with frequency dithering, which minimizes noise power at the 1MHz switching frequency. Additionally, all variants feature an ultra-low quiescent current of just 110µA and an Enable pin, enabling power-down control via an external signal to maximize energy savings.

To accelerate development, ST provides the STEVAL-3601CV1 evaluation board, which features screw terminals and headers for immediate use, showcasing an efficient circuit design with a compact layout. As the first member of ST’s new buck-converter product family, which is set to expand throughout the year, the DCP3601 is backed by the company’s 10-year longevity program, ensuring long-term component availability and support. Housed in a space-saving 3mm x 1.6mm SOT23 6-lead package, this single-chip buck converter is available starting at $0.48 for 1000-piece orders.