Multiple output DC-to-DC converter having enhanced noise margin and related methods
US6058030A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 20, 1997 |
| Grant date | May 2, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH02J1/102
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A circuit includes a plurality of DC-to-DC converter circuits and separates in time switching of the respective power switches of the DC-to-DC converter circuits which would otherwise be switching at nearly a same time, such as based upon a same desired output level. The switching time may be separated by inverting a periodic control waveform of at least one of the DC-to-DC converter circuits. The multiple output DC-to-DC converter circuit thereby provides an increased noise margin and operates with greater accuracy and stability. The circuit may also determine when the DC-to-DC converter circuits would otherwise be switching at nearly the same time, and activate the switching time separation responsive thereto. For example, the determination may be made based upon a selectable output level being within a predetermined range of at least one other output level. The circuit in accordance with the invention is particularly advantageous for a single integrated circuit implementation, and may be used, for example, on a portable computer motherboard.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.