Tradeoffs In Digital, Analog, And Hybrid Power Supply Control
by Fionn Sheerin, Microchip Technology, Chandler, Ariz., How2Power Today, Oct 15 2016
Focus:
Most power conversions are implemented in dedicated hardware. However, as digital signal
processors (DSPs) and digitally configured controllers become more capable, this does expand
the options and power conversion capabilities available to a savvy power designer. Especially
if that designer is not scared to play around in a firmware compiler. The big question is when
is it worth it to add firmware to the design process, and when is it better to use traditional
analog power conversion? The answer depends on the application needs. There are currently four
primary reasons driving investment in digital power conversion: reporting, reliability, dynamic
load management, and total cost of ownership. This article discusses each of these reasons,
citing application examples (using Microchip controllers) that illustrate how digital control
is beneficial and in some cases mandatory. Also discussed are the specific functional blocks
that are required to implement data reporting or dynamic load management. The article then
explores how these features may be achieved using either a fully digital approach to power
supply control, or in some cases a “hybrid†approach with an analog power supply controller in
tandem with a supervisory microcontroller or specialized digital interface.
What you’ll learn:
- How to choose between analog, digital or hybrid power supply control
- How to determine when digital power control is needed and how much
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