Ultra low-power boost regulator converts DC power from PV cells or TEGs

An integrated boost regulator that converts DC power from photovoltaic (PV) cells or thermoelectric generators (TEGs), the Analog Devices ADP5090 ultra low-power boost regulator is now available from Mouser stock. The device is designed to charge storage elements such as rechargeable Li-Ion batteries, thin film batteries, super capacitors, and conventional capacitors, and powers up small electronic devices and battery-free systems. The ADP5090 provides efficient conversion of the harvested limited power from a 16µW to 200mW range with sub-µW operation losses. With the internal cold-start circuit, the regulator can start operating at an input voltage as low as 380mV. After cold start up, the regulator is functional at an input voltage range of 80mV to 3.3V. By sensing the input voltage at the VIN pin, the control loop keeps the input voltage ripple in a fixed range to maintain stable DC-to-DC boost conversion. The VIN OCV sensing and programmable regulation points of the input voltage allow extraction of the highest possible energy from the PV cell or TEG harvester. A programmable minimum operation threshold (MINOP) enables boost shutdown during a low light condition. In addition, the DIS_SW pin can temporarily shut down the boost regulator and is RF transmission friendly, says the company.