Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has launched a new ultra-low power consumption DC-DC boost converter that can boost low voltages, offering solutions for remote and battery-free operation as well as low-maintenance applications in the asset monitoring and IoT fields.
The use of smartwatches, health and fitness trackers, body sensors, other implants and small electronics, and wireless monitoring devices is increasing. However, the need for batteries and external power sources to power these devices is a severe constraint on overall product design, practical use, and maintenance, especially in remote areas. The use of actively available thermal energy can open up new fields of application and design options. However, a DC-DC converter is required to boost the collected voltage and effectively use the resulting output to power small electronics, omitting the need for primary batteries.
Single chip solution for efficient power harvesting
Asahi Kasei Microdevices has released the AP4473, a DC-DC boost converter that offers the ability to boost an input voltage as low as 15 millivolts (mV) while maintaining ultra-low power consumption of just 26 nanoamps (nA). This single-chip solution enables electricity generation from a minimal thermal energy source, such as body heat, while enabling overload prevention and power supply control with minimal power consumption.
In addition to the boost circuit, the device incorporates a PMOS switch and two hysteresis comparators. The switch disconnects energy storage devices, such as capacitors, from the system, while its comparators automatically start and stop power supply to the system. This makes it possible to configure a PSU in an energy harvesting system with a minimum number of passive elements, helping to reduce overall system size and cost.
The AP4473 is suitable for applications in beacons for asset tracking and monitoring, environmental monitoring, and IoT sensor notes, as well as smart cards or IoT devices.
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