This thread has been locked.

If you have a related question, please click the "Ask a related question" button in the top right corner. The newly created question will be automatically linked to this question.

LM5118 Power Dissipation

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: LM5118

Hi

In my LM5118 configuration, VCC is driven externally, so the internal regulator is not sourcing any current.  While I'm guessing the internal LDO regulator would've been the largest source of power dissipation, it still appears that the LM5118 is dissipating power in other ways, especially while in buck-boost mode.  What are some other sources of power dissipation in the IC (especially ones that can be estimated/analyzed)?

Thanks

  • John,

    The major source of power dissipation will be in the gate drivers. When you're in buck-boost mode there are two gate drivers in operation which is why there is higher power dissipation in that mode. Also if operating at higher switching frequencies the gate driver losses will be high.

    This can be estimated by:

    Pdriver = Qg*Vgs*Fsw*Rg

    Qg = Total Gate Charge of the FET

    Vgs = Gate Drive Voltage (In this case VCC)

    Fsw = Switching frequency

    Rg = Gate driver resistance (approx 1 Ohm)

    This will give you a good estimate of the power dissipation. 

    The below link has much more detail on calculating Gate driver and MOSFET losses.

     

    -Garrett

  • Garrett,

    Thanks for the info. Quick follow up. Is this just power for one driver? In other worlds, do I multiply the formula you provided by 2 to get estimated power in buck-boost mode?

    Thanks,
    John
  • John,

    That is correct. When in buck-boost mode both drivers are switching so you would multiple the provided equation by 2.

    -Garrett