Highly programmable super sequencer simplifies multi-rail power system management

Analog Devices has released the Power by Linear ADM1266 Super Sequencer, a highly programmable device for monitoring, sequencing, and margining up to 17 power supplies. For larger rail counts, a proprietary two-wire inter-device bus synchronises the operation of 16 ADM1266s. A built-in sequencing engine monitors each supply fault detector, general purpose inputs/outputs, and timers to turn the supplies on and off in a user-determined sequence. All configuration is performed through the intuitive ADI Power Studio GUI, reducing design time. The device offers a highly flexible yet simple solution to maintain complex power systems on FPGA, ASIC, and processor boards in network routers and switches, servers and data storage systems. The device integrates an ADC and nine voltage output DACs that adjust the feedback node or reference of a DC-to-DC converter to implement a closed-loop, autonomous margining system. A non-volatile EEPROM records voltage, time, and fault information when instructed by the sequencing engine configuration, speeding fault debug. The device, along with the ADI Power Studio software, provides a feature-rich configurable state machine to meet complex sequencing requirements. Built-in debugging features like breakpoints and black box, along with the software setup wizards, reduce development and debug time from days to a matter of hours. The inter-device bus between multiple devices ensures they perform like a single device, providing for an intuitive design process. By handling all complexity, the software fashions a seamless design experience from 17 rails to 257 rails. Specified over the -40C to 85C temperature range, the device is offered in a 64-pin 9mm x 9mm LFCSP package.