Design of an efficiency improved dual-output DC-DC converter utilizing a supercapacitor circulation technique

Abstract

The Supercapacitor Assisted Low Dropout Regulator (SCALDO) is a novel approach of achieving high end-to-end efficiency (ETEE) in linear, step-down, DC-DC converters. This patented technique is well established and have come up with various proof-of-concept prototypes showing its efficiency advantage in the range of factor of 1.33 to 3 along with the other excellent linear characteristics such as low noise and high slew rate. As a better way of utilizing this approach to multiple voltage rail applications such as mobile battery operated products, processorbased systems, automotive systems, and data centers, a further extension to the technique called Dual-Output Supercapacitor Assisted Low Dropout Regulator (DO-SCALDO) has been suggested. The new approach has dual output levels within the same design which can be the same or different voltage levels. In this paper, the design approach and the practical implementation details of a prototype version of 6V-to-dual 1.8 V DO-SCALDO are discussed.