austriamicrosystems has unveiled the AS3603, an enhanced version of its outstanding AS3601 power management platform. Providing mobile device manufacturers with a truly versatile power management IC, this integrated real-time programmable power management IC significantly reduces the bill of materials for mobile devices and consumes 60% less PCB space.

"With the AS3603 power management IC, austriamicrosystems presents the industry benchmark in terms of functionality, flexibility and integration density for mobile devices," said Alexander Harrer, Senior Vice President of austriamicrosystems' communications business unit. "Since all of the parameters can be programmed via software, the AS3603 can be easily integrated within any kind of system architecture."

A highly efficient DC-DC down-converter and ultra-low power LDOs, all programmable in 0.05 V steps, ensure outstanding operating time.

The AS3603's unique feature set also includes a highly efficient driver for white LEDs and a programmable 1W audio amplifier, which is ideal for hands-free mobile phone applications - all on a single chip. Mono to differential conversion of the audio signal, which has been integrated into the AS3603, delivers high power output for the handsfree function while eliminating the need for costly, space-consuming external components.

The on-chip programmable battery charger, which supports all lithium-based and nickel-based batteries, provides a wide range of functions, including constant current, constant voltage and trickle charge. Further enhanced features include top-off charging, by either pulse charging or constant voltage charging, detection of battery presence and even bypassing the charge controller.

When used in cordless telephone designs, the AS3603 enables the handset to be operated from the AC adapter without a battery.

Real-time software control of all functions and regulators provides flexibility, enabling the IC to fully adapt to the system configuration and to manage the power supply optimally. Using a single external resistor, any one of eight factory-preset sequences can be selected to optimise the startup procedure. Custom startup sequences can be mask-programmed to meet the demands of a variety of product designs and end markets.

The AS3603 is available in a QFN48, 6x6mm, pitch 0.4mm packaging or QFN48, 7x7mm, pitch 0.5mm packaging.

About austriamicrosystems:
austriamicrosystems AG is one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of highly integrated mixed signal IC´s. austriamicrosystems combines more than 20 years of design capabilities, product and marketing know-how with a full service silicon foundry specialised in mixed signal, RF and HV technologies. Operating worldwide with more than 800 employees, austriamicrosystems is organised in four strategic business units: Communications, Automotive, Industrial and Medical and Full Service Foundry.