Roll out of new architecture will simplify development of multi-port chargers

Silanna Semiconductor will be making its AnyPort architecture for multiport chargers available for a broad range of silicon- and GaN-based designs supporting power levels above 100W.

AnyPort is an innovative new architecture that allows designers to create a charger design for a given power level before specifying and configuring the particular number and type of output ports. Allowing a single base charger design to be deployed over various end products with different output configurations can significantly speed the development and decrease the complexity of fast chargers and adapters with multiple Type-C and/or Type-A [four] output ports.

The architecture brings together the company's CO2 Smart Power families of advanced ACF controllers and high-frequency DC-DC converters to provide high-power-density, ultra-efficient, multiport charger solutions for USB-PD applications between 30W and 150W. The capability to specify port count and type at the end of the design process is made possible by combining a fixed-output front-end AC/DC stage powered by its ACF controller and multiple downstream DC-DC stages independently regulating any number of Type-C and Type-A ports.

"By allowing designers to start work on a charger design before deciding on the number and type of outputs, AnyPort represents a significant step forward in terms of the design flexibility it offers OEM and aftermarket charger and adapter manufacturers," says Hubie Noto, Silanna Semiconductor's director of product marketing. "Basing a design around AnyPort architecture speeds development, minimises the BoM required across multiple charger models and allows companies to launch and modify high-efficiency, high-power-density products in the shortest possible timescales."

Supplied in miniature QFN packages, its DC-DC portfolio comprises high-voltage, high-efficiency, wide-input integrated buck converters that provide selectable switching frequencies and offer unique features to optimise USB port power supply performance applications. Extremely low operating power dissipation allows very low no-load power – an important specification for regulatory certification – while a momentary internal feedback path provides for clean and well-controlled startup operation until external USB-PD controllers can bias themselves and take over control of the output voltage.