Versatile capabilities of digitally controlled integrated dc-dc converters

The increasing need to incorporate complex control features in switched mode power supplies (SMPS) in a CMOS compatible environment has spurred the study of digitally controlled integrated dc-dc converters. Designers continuously examine various design considerations for the implementation of these power converters, including topology choices, digital vs. analog control scheme, power conversion efficiency optimization, advanced passive component technologies, and power transistors. This paper highlights some of our recent work on integrated dc-dc converters with a particular focus on outlining the novel features that are only possible with digital controllers. More specifically, recent advances such as segmented output stage, segmented gate driver, dead-time control, and transient suppression are reviewed.