Siliconix Inc has developed an analogue chip set designed for power management of portable computers, including the new Si9405DY logic-level load switch/a: the chip set provides power management and conversion for portable computers, and Siliconix is claiming that this makes it the first manufacturer to offer complete power offerings to the portable computer market; the Si9405DY plays a key part in the chip set as a load switch, while the other products in the set are responsible for converting the battery power into power for the computer; functions include an input switch, pulse-width modulator controller, and a device that replaces diodes and their associated losses; it offers an 0.12 Ohm on-resistance which translates into a negligible voltage drop across the switch, which means that less voltage is wasted in the switch; samples of the Si9405DY are available now and production quantities are available with a lead time of eight to 12 weeks; it costs 95 cents in 100,000-piece quantities, and the chip set will be out this month.
