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iP1203

Adjusting the Power Loss and SOA Curves for Different Operating Conditions

To make adjustments to the power loss curves in Fig. 2, multiply the normalized value obtained from the curves in Figs. 4,

5, 6 or 7 by the value indicated on the power loss curve in Fig. 2. Then if multiple adjustments are required, multiply all of the

normalized values together, then multiply that product by the value indicated on the power loss curve in Fig. 2. The resulting

product is the final power loss based on all factors. See example no. 1.

To make adjustments to the SOA curve in Fig. 3, determine your maximum PCB Temp & Case Temp at the maximum

operating current of each iP1203. Then, add the correction temperature from the normalized curves in Figs. 4, 5, 6 or 7 to

Operating Conditions for the following examples:

Output Current = 12A

Input Voltage = 13.2V

Inductor = 0.6µH

Output Voltage = 1.2V

Sw Freq= 400kHz

Example 1) Adjusting for Maximum Power Loss:

(Fig. 2)

Maximum power loss

(Fig. 4)

(Fig. 5)

(Fig. 6)

(Fig. 7)

Applying the Safe Operating Area (SOA) Curve

The SOA graph incorporates power loss and thermal resistance information in a way that allows one to solve for maximum

current capability in a simplified graphical manner. It incorporates the ability to solve thermal problems where heat is drawn

out through the printed circuit board and the top of the case.

Procedure

1) Draw a line from Case Temp axis at T

Temp axis at T

2) Draw a vertical line from the T

curve. (see AN-1047 for further explanation of T

3) Draw a horizontal line from the intersection of the vertical

line with the SOA curve to the Y axis. The point at which

the horizontal line meets the y-axis is the SOA current.

4) If no top sided heatsinking is available, assume T

CASE

120

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0

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0

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30405060708090

100

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PCB Temperature (ºC)

iP1203 SOA

L=1.0uH

Case Temperature (ºC)

TX

1

2

3