As mainstream demand for high-definition (HD) movies, games and other entertainment forces down prices of Blu-ray equipment, STMicroelectronics, a world-leading supplier of ICs for consumer products, is helping manufacturers respond to market pressures by introducing a new chip enabling smaller, lower-cost Blu-ray players and recorders.
The new STODD01 is a power-supply IC capable of generating all the voltages needed to operate the player’s circuitry, including the high-voltage driver for the blue laser supporting HD read/write capabilities. The device integrates three power supplies to drive low-voltage digital ICs, analog circuitry, and the laser driver. Using this chip, designers can eliminate multiple individual power supplies from the printed-circuit board, reducing component costs, design complexity, time to market, and assembly time. The size of the board can also be reduced, which will allow new generations of compact set-top products, game consoles, PC drives and portable HD devices.
Each of the STODD01′s power-supply channels benefits from highly efficient switched-mode conversion, which minimizes energy losses and heat generation. The device also provides a true shutdown mode, helping to minimize standby power consumption. This enables HD products to attract buyers by offering enhanced user experiences and low operating costs. A major manufacturer of DVD and Blu-ray equipment has already qualified the STODD01, recognizing the importance of superior power management as the markets for HD equipment evolve.
Major features of STODD01:
- Three power-supply channels for: HD digital ICs; DSPs and RF amplifier; and blue laser driver
- 0.8A buck converter for digital circuitry
- Programmable laser-driver output voltage allows use in battery-powered equipment
- Reset control
- QFN16L 4 x 4mm package
The STODD01 is now sampling to lead customers and is ready for mass production in the QFN16L 4 x 4mm package, priced at $0.80 in quantities of 1000. Alternative pricing options are available, depending on order quantity.
