1 Introduction

As systems continue to shrink in both size and power usage, while growing in functionality, designers face the challenge of how to effectively power embedded processor systems. Embedded processor systems require a power design that can be implemented quickly and optimize board space. One option for creating the power tree is to use an individual power regulator integrated circuit (IC) for each rail of the processor, FPGA, or SoC. This is commonly referred to as a discrete design. The other option is to use a multichannel power management IC, or PMIC.

More advanced power designs such as in EV charging, HMI, and HVAC controllers require high-performance power designs with features such as power sequencing, low-power modes and monitoring elements. PMICs unify many common power-management functions into a single energy-efficient chip, which can simplify designs, shrink power design sizes, and optimize processor performance. This application report compares two Sitara AM62 Starter Kit EVM power designs and outlines the benefits of using a highly integrated TPS65219 PMIC versus a discrete regulator approach.