by Power management integrated circuits (PMICs) are semiconductors that help regulate voltage levels and optimize power usage in electronic devices and systems. They act as the interface between the power source, such as a battery, and the different loads that require power within a device. PMICs perform key functions related to power delivery and management through integrated voltage regulation, battery charging, power sequencing, and power monitoring capabilities.
Voltage Regulation Using PMICs
One of the primary functions of PMICs is to regulate voltage levels and provide stable power supplies to the various loads and components within electronic systems. Devices typically have multiple voltage rails catering to different components like processors, memory modules, display drivers, radios etc. Each of these loads may require different voltage levels for optimal operation. PMICs contain onboard low dropout (LDO) linear regulators and switching regulators that can dynamically step voltage levels up or down as needed. They are able to maintain tight voltage tolerances even with varying battery levels or current draws from loads. This ensures different subsystem components receive clean and consistent power.
Battery Charging and Fuel Gauge Functions
Many electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and power tools contain rechargeable Li-ion or Li-polymer batteries. Power Management ICs enable intelligent battery charging capabilities by implementing constant-current, constant-voltage (CC/CV) charging algorithms. They monitor charging voltage and current levels to charge the battery safely up to its maximum capacity without overcharging. In addition, PMICs also contain fuel gauge circuitry to accurately measure the remaining battery capacity. This provides the ability to show battery percentage levels and detect charging/discharging states.
Power Sequencing and Watchdog Timers
In complex systems with multiple processors, memory modules, and radios, proper power sequencing is important to avoid faults during power-up or power-down transitions. PMICs contain power sequencers that can turn on or off individual power rails or loads in a predefined order. They also incorporate watchdog timer functions to monitor system activity and reset components if any anomalies occur. This helps ensure smooth and reliable power management during operation and idling states.
Usage in Automotive and Consumer Electronics
PMICs find widespread adoption across various applications due to their ability to optimize power usage while fulfilling stringent requirements related to safety, reliability and efficiency.
Some key usage areas include:
Automotive Electronics – Cars contain many electronic control units (ECUs) that require precise power management and protection against voltage transients. PMICs enable reliable power distribution to safety-critical systems like engine control, braking, infotainment etc.
Smartphones – Mobile devices pack powerful processors, massive displays and multiple radio technologies into a compact form factor. PMICs play an instrumental role in maximizing battery life through efficient power delivery and fast charging capabilities.
Computing Devices – Notebooks, tablets, and various IoT edge nodes utilize PMICs to maintain performance while keeping fan noise and operating temperatures in check through adaptive voltage and thermal management.
Industrial Equipment – Factory automation systems, robotic process controllers, and medical diagnostic tools deploy Power Management ICs to satisfy their power integrity and safety isolation needs.
power management integrated circuits have become an essential building block across many different technology domains due to their capabilities for optimizing power usage, protecting systems from faults, extending battery life, and enabling fast charging and power monitoring functions. As electronics continue to shrink device sizes while introducing more advanced functionality, designing PMICs that can satisfy the stringent cost, power, area and reliability requirements will remain an important area of innovation.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya, a content writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemicals and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile
