Freescale has developed DC/DC converter technology that enables solar cell startup and operating performance and efficiency at levels as low as 0.32 volts, as well as operation down to 0.25 V. Most ICs cannot start up at voltages less than the typical turn-on voltage of a transistor (approximately 0.7 V) without external assistance. This limitation reduces system design options and increases the complexity of power conversion and energy recovery applications involving ultra-low voltages.

Freescale’s power conversion technology enables IC startup thresholds to be reduced to 0.32 V and efficiencies of nearly 90 percent. Potential applications include solar-powered battery chargers, trickle chargers for automotive systems, chargers for cell phones and laptops, remote data acquisition and industrial HVAC systems, PV-based traffic signals, solar-powered home and commercial lighting products, and self-powered wireless transponders. Using a low-cost single solar cell, Freescale’s power conversion technology is engineered to charge a Li-Ion battery cell at 100mA.

The performance and efficiency is achieved through a combination of SMARTMOS 10 process technology, optimized flip-chip on leadframe (FCOL) packaging and innovative IC design.