Power Management IC Supervisors (PMIC-Supervisors) are semiconductor devices that monitor and control power systems in electronic equipment. They provide critical functions including voltage monitoring, current limiting, thermal protection, and system reset control. These ICs ensure reliable operation by preventing damage from power anomalies, making them essential in modern electronics such as smartphones, automotive systems, and industrial equipment.
| Type | Functional Features | Application Example |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Monitors | Track supply voltages and trigger resets during under/over-voltage conditions | Server power supplies |
| Reset Controllers | Generate system resets during power instability | Embedded systems |
| Sequencers | Manage power-up/down order for multiple rails | FPGA power management |
| Watchdog Timers | Monitor processor activity and trigger resets on software faults | Industrial controllers |
| Thermal Supervisors | Shutdown systems during overheating conditions | Power amplifiers |
PMIC-Supervisors typically feature: - Voltage reference circuits - Analog comparators - Digital control logic - Temperature sensing elements - Multiple input/output channels - Standard packages (SOT23, TSSOP, QFN) Advanced devices integrate EEPROM for customizable thresholds and response times.
| Parameter | Importance |
|---|---|
| Voltage Monitoring Range | Determines compatibility with different power rails |
| Threshold Accuracy | Affects system reliability (typical 1-5%) |
| Response Time | Speed of fault detection (10 s-10ms range) |
| Supply Current | Impacts power efficiency |
| Operating Temperature | Defines environmental suitability |
| Package Type | Enables application-specific integration |
| Manufacturer | Key Product | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Instruments | TPS3808 | Low-power voltage supervisor with adjustable delay |
| STMicroelectronics | STM6600 | High-accuracy multi-voltage monitor |
| Infineon | TLE4268 | Automotive power supervisor with watchdog |
| Analog Devices | ADM1186 | Dual-channel voltage sequencer |
| ON Semiconductor | MC34064 | 3V to 5V supply monitor with reset output |
Key considerations: - Required monitoring channels - Voltage threshold accuracy needs - Environmental operating conditions - Communication interface requirements - Package size constraints - Automotive/industrial certification needs - Integration level (standalone vs. system manager)
Current developments include: - Increased integration with PMICs - AI-powered predictive monitoring - Enhanced functional safety (ISO 26262 compliance) - Ultra-low power consumption (<1 A standby) - Advanced package technologies (WLCSP) - Digital configurability via I2C/SPI interfaces