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Application Notes
Using the Power-Up Sequencing Feature of the
PT3400 Series of DC/DC Converters
Introduction
Power-up sequencing is a term used to describe the
order and timing that supply voltages power up in a
multi-voltage power supply system. Multi-voltage power
supply architectures are a common place requirement in
electronic circuits that employ high-performance mi-
croprocessors or digital signal processors (DSPs). These
circuits require a tightly regulated low-voltage supply
for the processor core, and a higher voltage to power
the processor’s system interface or I/O circuitry. Power-
up sequencing is often required between two such voltages
in order to manage the voltage differential during the brief
period of power-up. This reduces stress and improves the
long term reliability of the dual-voltage devices and their
associated circuitry. The most popular solution is termed
“Simultaneous Startup,” whereby the two affected voltages
both start at the same time and then rise at the same rate.
Configuration for Power-up Sequencing
The PT3400 series converters have a feature that allows
individual modules to be easily configured for simulta-
neous startup. Using the SEQ control (pin 5), two PT3400
modules are simply interconnected with just a few passive
components. This eliminates much of the application
circuitry that would otherwise be required for this type of
setup. The schematic is given in Figure 4-1. The setup is
relatively simple but varies slightly with the combination
of output voltages being sequenced. Capacitor C3 (5) is only
required when the modules selected are a mix between
a high-voltage module (3.3V through 1.8V), and a low-
voltage module (
≤1.5V). For all other configurations
C3 is replaced by a wire link. For clarification Table 4-1
indicates which modules are a high voltage type (Type A),
and which are a low voltage type (Type B). Table 4-2
provides guidance as to the one combination that requires
the capacitor C3. Examples of waveforms obtained from a
sequenced start-up between two PT3400 series modules
are provided in Figure 4-2, Figure 4-3, and Figure 4-4.
In each case the voltage difference during the synchronized
portion of the power up sequence is typically within 0.4V.
Both the timing and tracking of output voltages during
the power-up sequence will vary slightly with input voltage,
temperature, and with differences in the output capaci-
tance and load current between the two converter modules.
This power-up sequencing solution may not be suitable
for every application. To ensure compatibility the appli-
cation should be tested against all variances. For additional
support please contact a Plug-in Power applications
specialist.
PT3400 Series
Table 4-1; PT3400 Module Type Identification
PART No.
VOUT
TYPE A
TYPE B
PT3401
(3.3V)
×
PT3402
(2.5V)
×
PT3403
(1.8V)
×
PT3404
(1.5V)
×
PT3405
(1.4V)
×
PT3406
(1.2V)
×
PT3407
(1.0V)
×
Table 4-2; Value of C3 in Sequencing Setup
MODULE #1 MODULE #2
C3
COMMENTS
A
Wire link
Waveforms given in Figure 4-2
B
Wire link
Waveforms given in Figure 4-3
A
B
0.1F (5)
Waveforms given in Figure 4-4
Notes
1. The two converters configured for sequenced power up
must be located close together on the same printed circuit
board.
2. When configured for power-up sequencing, a minimum
of 1,000F output capacitance is recommended at the
output of each converter.
3. The best results are obtained if a load of 1A or greater is
present at both converter outputs.
4. The capacitors, C1 and C2, should each be placed close to
their associated converter, Module #1, and Module #2
respectively. Combining C1 and C2 to a single capacitor of
equivalent value is not recommended.
5. The capacitor C3 is only required whenever a Type A and
Type B converter are connected together for sequenced
power-up. In this event C3 should always be connected to
the SEQ control (pin 5) of the Type B module, or the
converter with the lowest output voltage. For all other
converter configurations C3 is not required, and is
replaced by a copper trace or wire link.
6. The capacitors selected for C1, C2, & C3 should be of
good quality and have stable characteristics. Capacitors
with an X7R dielectric, and 5% tolerance are
recommended.
7. The enable controls, EN1 & EN2, are optional for a
sequenced pair of converters. If an enable signal is desired,
EN1 or EN2 of both converters units must be controlled
from a single transistor.