Renesas' portfolio of DC/DC converters includes linear regulators, switching regulators, controllers, PMICs, and power modules. These product families cover a wide range of topologies including buck, boost, and buck/boost.
For automotive products, please see Automotive Power Management.
Cost vs. Complexity Tradeoffs of Power Management Parts
| Cost | Complexity | Topology Legend | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| $ | Linear regulators (LDO) | Single and multi-output linear regulators/LDOs | |
| $$ | Buck Regulators (Integrated FETs) | Single and multi-output buck regulators with controller, driver and power FETs in one package | |
| $$ | Buck-boost Regulators (Integrated FETs) | Single and multi-output buck-boost regulators with controller, driver and power FETs in one package | |
| $$ | Boost Regulators (Integrated FETs) | Single and multi-output boost regulators with controller, driver and power FETs in one package | |
| $$$$$ | Power Modules (Integrated Inductor & FETs) | Fully integrated buck module with controller, driver, power FETs and inductor in one package | |
| $$ | Buck Controllers (External FETs) | Single and multiple-output buck controllers with and without drivers on board | |
| $$$ | Analog Multiphase DC/DC Switching Controllers | Multiple phase buck controllers with and without drivers on board | |
| $$$$ | Power Management ICs (PMIC) | Multi-output buck and boost controllers, regulators, LDOs and other features for specific power applications |
Get started with your power design using the PowerCompass Tool.
Buck, Boost and Buck-Boost Converters
Renesas has many options for DC/DC converters, controllers and regulators with buck, boost and buck-boost topologies.
Buck Converters
What is a Buck or Step-Down Converter?
A buck converter, also known as a step-down converter, is a DC/DC power converter that provides voltage step-down and current step-up. The converter reduces the voltage when the power source has a higher voltage than Vin. A buck converter generally provides the most efficient solution with the smallest external components.
Unsure if a low-powered linear regulator or highly efficient switching regulator is a better option for your design? Learn more about Linear vs. Switching Regulators.
Boost Converters
What is a Boost or Step-up Converter?
Boost converters, also known as step-up converters, are DC/DC power converters with an output voltage greater than its input voltage. The driver boosts the voltage of the power source that is less than the Vin.
Buck-Boost Converters
What is a Buck-Boost Converter?
A buck-boost converter generates an output voltage either greater or less than the input voltage. The advantage of using a buck-boost solution is regulating the output voltage over the full power source voltage range. Buck-boost converter solutions usually have lower efficiency and a larger footprint than buck converter solutions.
