Intelligent Power

Microcontrollers for Level 3 Integration - Topology Control

Topology Control incorporates the features of both Level 1 and Level 2, while enabling the standard analog loop design to be reconfigured. On-the-fly reconfiguration of the control lop allows users to transition between different operating modes, which can be used to increase system performance. For instance, when a load change is expected, the controller may be tuned for ‘high-performance’, which allows fast response to those load changes. Once complete, however, the system can then enter a ‘high-efficiency’ mode, reducing dynamic performance, but increasing the system efficiency.

Other loss minimization techniques, such as switching frequency adjustments and deadtime control can also be included.

Microchip's entire range of PIC^® MCUs and dsPIC^® DSCs can assist in Level 3 control applications. In particular, mixed-signal solutions such as the PIC16F785 integrate a PIC^® MCU with analog peripherals and are well-suited for topology control. In addition, the MCP1630 and MCP1631 PWM controllers are designed for PIC MCU power controller applications. The PIC16HV785 can be used in a Level 3 application due to the on-chip analog peripherals. The device has two analog PWM modules that can control power stages. Two error amplifiers and two high-speed comparators can be connected to the PWM modules in many ways through digital configuration.

Microchip’s broad line of microcontroller solutions combined with our analog controllers and external drivers offer an intelligent and powerful power supply solution.

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