One IC Generates Three Sub-2V Power Rails from a Li-Ion Cell:Shrinking geometries in IC technology have pushed the
operating voltages of today’s electronics well below 2V,
presenting a number of design challenges. One common
problem is the need for multiple supply voltages: for
example, one voltage for a CPU core, another for I/O and
still others for peripherals. Sensitive RF, audio and analog
circuitry may require additional dedicated quiet supplies,
separate from less noise-sensitive digital circuits. As the
number of supplies increases, it becomes impractical
to use a separate power supply IC for each voltage and
special-requirements subsystem. Board area would be
quickly consumed by power supplies. One solution to
the space crunch is power supply integration, provided
by a triple regulator like the LTC?3446—three voltages from a single IC.