Renesas ISL6522IR
- Part No.:
- ISL6522IR
- Manufacturer:
- Renesas
- Category:
- DC DC Switching Controllers
- Package:
- 16-VQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
ISL6522IR.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CTRLR BUCK 16QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,560
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ISL6522IR from Intersil is a voltage-mode synchronous buck PWM controller designed to drive two N-channel MOSFETs in high-current, low-voltage DC-DC converters for microprocessor power delivery. It delivers 0.8V reference accuracy (±1% over line/temperature), supports 50kHz–1MHz programmable switching frequency, integrates rDS(ON)-based overcurrent protection, and operates across –40°C to +85°C in a 16-lead 5×5mm QFN package.
For engineers reviewing the ISL6522IR datasheet, ISL6522IR pinout, ISL6522IR application, or ISL6522IR equivalent, key selection considerations include its single-loop voltage-mode control architecture, 15MHz error amplifier GBW, 0–100% duty cycle capability, integrated soft-start with 10µA current source, and compatibility with high-slew-rate microprocessor load transients requiring fast regulation response.
Technical Context
The ISL6522IR implements a fixed-frequency, voltage-mode PWM control loop using an internal 200kHz free-running oscillator adjustable via external RT resistor. Its error amplifier provides 15MHz gain-bandwidth and 6V/µs slew rate to support high-loop bandwidth for sub-microsecond transient recovery in CPU core supplies.
Overcurrent protection uses an internal 200µA current source at OCSET to sense voltage drop across the upper MOSFET's rDS(ON), eliminating external sense resistors. Protection triggers hiccup-mode soft-start restart, while adaptive shoot-through logic monitors UGATE and LGATE transitions to prevent cross-conduction during sourcing and sinking operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Control Architecture | Voltage-mode PWM with single feedback loop - enables stable compensation using standard Type II/III networks and predictable loop response. |
| Reference Voltage | 0.800V ±1% (industrial temp) - ensures tight output regulation down to 0.8V for modern microprocessor VDD rails. |
| Switching Frequency | 50kHz to >1MHz (RT-programmable) - allows optimization of size vs. efficiency: higher frequencies reduce inductor/capacitor size; lower frequencies improve light-load efficiency. |
| Error Amplifier GBW | 15MHz - supports closed-loop bandwidth up to ~1MHz, enabling rapid correction of load transients typical in Pentium Pro/AlphaPC applications. |
| Gate Drive Capability | UGATE: 500mA source / 7.2Ω sink; LGATE: 450mA source / 4.5Ω sink - sufficient to drive large N-channel MOSFETs with <10nC gate charge at 1MHz without external buffers. |
| Operating Temp Range | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade embedded and server board power stages where ambient thermal margins are constrained. |
| Package | 16-lead 5×5mm QFN (JEDEC MO-220 compliant) - provides low thermal resistance (θJA = 36°C/W), near-chip-scale footprint, and improved PCB space efficiency vs. SOIC/TSSOP. |
Pinout & Package
ISL6522IR is housed in a 16-lead, 5×5mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad (JEDEC MO-220 QFN-Quad Flat No-Leads outline). The package supports reflow soldering per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020 and offers θJC = 5°C/W for efficient heat transfer to PCB ground plane.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| UGATE | Upper MOSFET gate driver output | Provides high-current source/sink to switch high-side N-MOSFET; monitored for adaptive shoot-through protection. |
| LGATE | Lower MOSFET gate driver output | Drives synchronous rectifier; actively monitored to coordinate dead-time and prevent shoot-through. |
| PHASE | High-side MOSFET source connection | Return path for UGATE drive and sensing node for rDS(ON)-based overcurrent detection. |
| BOOT | Bootstrap supply for high-side driver | Accepts external bootstrap capacitor to generate floating bias voltage ≥12V above PHASE for N-MOSFET gate turn-on. |
| OCSET | Overcurrent threshold programming input | Connects to upper MOSFET drain via ROCSET; internal 200µA current source sets IPEAK trip point via rDS(ON). |
| FB | Inverting input of error amplifier | Connects to resistor divider from output rail; sets regulated output voltage as VOUT = 0.8V × (1 + R1/R2). |
| COMP | Error amplifier output | External compensation node - connects to FB via RC network to stabilize voltage-mode control loop. |
| SS | Soft-start timing capacitor node | Internal 10µA current source charges external CSS to 4V, controlling ramp-up time of output voltage during startup. |
| EN | Enable/disable control (open-collector) | Pull below 1V to disable PWM; releases soft-start clamp and forces UGATE/LGATE low during shutdown. |
| VCC | Bias supply input (12V ±10%) | Primary IC power rail; powers internal logic, oscillators, and gate drivers - must be decoupled locally with ≥1µF ceramic. |
| PVCC | Lower gate driver bias supply | Dedicated 12V supply for LGATE driver - improves noise immunity and drive strength independent of main VCC. |
| GND | Signal ground reference | Analog and digital ground return - must be connected to PGND at single point near IC to minimize noise coupling. |
| PGND | Power ground return | Low-impedance return for lower MOSFET source and output inductor - requires solid copper pour under QFN thermal pad. |
| RT | Oscillator frequency programming | Resistor-to-GND or resistor-to-VCC sets switching frequency; supports wide range from 50kHz to >1MHz. |
| NC | No-connect | Two pins (Pin 5 and Pin 15) are internally unused - must remain unconnected per datasheet. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| rDS(ON)-based overcurrent protection | Eliminates external current-sense resistor, reducing BOM cost and PCB area while maintaining accurate peak-current limiting using MOSFET on-resistance. |
| 0–100% duty cycle operation | Enables full-range regulation from near-zero to maximum input-to-output conversion ratio - critical for low-VOUT/high-IOUT microprocessor rails. |
| 15MHz error amplifier GBW | Supports high-bandwidth control loops capable of correcting multi-amp load steps within 1–2 switching cycles - essential for Pentium Pro/AlphaPC dynamic voltage scaling. |
| Adaptive shoot-through protection | Monitors UGATE and LGATE transitions in real time to dynamically adjust dead-time, preventing cross-conduction without fixed delay penalties. |
| QFN thermal performance | θJA = 36°C/W and θJC = 5°C/W enable reliable operation at >15A output currents without heatsinks when mounted on 2oz copper with thermal vias. |
Applications
| Microprocessor Core Supply | Server VRM Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Delivering tightly regulated 0.8–1.5V at up to 30A to Intel Pentium Pro or AlphaPC microprocessors with rapid load transients (>1A/ns). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary PWM controller managing synchronous buck topology, providing voltage-mode feedback, overcurrent fault handling, and soft-start sequencing. Use Value: Achieves ±1% output regulation across line/temperature/load, enabling stable CPU operation at maximum clock speeds without brownout or overvoltage faults. | Use Scenario: Integrated into multi-phase VRM designs for enterprise servers requiring redundant, thermally robust 12V-to-1.2V conversion with hiccup-mode fault recovery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-phase controller in interleaved VRM stack; coordinates with other ISL6522IR units via shared RT/OCSET nodes for synchronized switching and current sharing. Use Value: QFN package enables dense layout with minimal thermal resistance, supporting continuous 20A+ per phase while maintaining junction temperature <125°C under full load. |
| Industrial Embedded Power | Low-Voltage Distributed Supply |
Use Scenario: Providing isolated 3.3V/5V rails in ruggedized industrial controllers operating from 12V or 24V inputs across –40°C to +85°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main DC-DC controller implementing constant-frequency buck conversion with programmable UVLO and thermal-safe shutdown. Use Value: Industrial temperature grade and Pb-free RoHS compliance ensure long-term reliability in harsh environments without derating or special handling. | Use Scenario: Generating local 1.8V or 2.5V supplies for FPGAs, ASICs, or memory subsystems in distributed power architectures with limited board space. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact, high-efficiency point-of-load regulator controller driving discrete MOSFETs with minimal external components. Use Value: 5×5mm QFN footprint and 0–100% duty cycle allow ultra-small converter designs (<1cm² active area) while maintaining fast transient response for burst-mode logic loads. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck PWM controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ISL6535 | Drop-in enhanced version with improved ESD rating, tighter reference tolerance (±0.5%), and extended frequency range (up to 1.5MHz); same pinout and QFN-16 footprint. | Preferred for new designs requiring higher precision or faster switching; retains full compatibility with ISL6522IR layouts and component values. | Select ISL6535 when designing new systems needing improved accuracy or future-proofing against obsolescence - no PCB changes required. |
| TPS54620 | TI part with integrated MOSFETs (40V, 6A), current-mode control, and PMBus interface; different topology (integrated vs. controller-only), non-pin-compatible, larger 20-pin WQFN package. | Suitable for lower-power, space-constrained applications where integration reduces component count but sacrifices flexibility in MOSFET selection and thermal management. | Choose TPS54620 only if system-level integration (MOSFET + controller) is prioritized over discrete power stage optimization and thermal design freedom. |
Compared with ISL6522IR, ISL6535 offers direct upgrade path with enhanced specs and identical mechanical fit, while TPS54620 trades controller flexibility for integration - making ISL6522IR optimal for high-current, thermally demanding, or cost-sensitive discrete power stages.
Availability
ISL6522IR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor core supplies, server VRM modules, and industrial embedded power systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for ISL6522IR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Intersil Corporation (now part of Renesas Electronics) is a U.S.-based analog and power management semiconductor company focused on high-performance power conversion, precision analog, and interface solutions.
The ISL6522IR belongs to Intersil's high-current synchronous buck controller product line, engineered specifically for demanding microprocessor and DSP core voltage regulation where precision, speed, and thermal efficiency are critical.
FAQ
What is the recommended input voltage range for ISL6522IR operation?
The ISL6522IR is specified to operate with a VCC supply of +12V ±10%, meaning 10.8V to 13.2V. This bias rail powers internal logic, oscillators, and gate drivers. PVCC also requires 12V for optimal lower gate drive strength. Input voltage to the power stage (VIN) is typically 5V or 12V, as noted in the datasheet's "Operates from +5V or +12V input" feature - the ISL6522IR itself does not regulate VIN but controls the buck converter fed by it. Always verify VCC stability under load using local 1µF ceramic decoupling.
Does ISL6522IR support both sourcing and sinking current in the output stage?
Yes, the ISL6522IR supports bidirectional current flow - it can both source and sink output current. This capability enables operation during negative load transients (e.g., sudden CPU core deactivation), where energy flows back from the output filter into the input rail. However, sinking current requires careful system-level design: the input rail must provide a current sink path (e.g., parallel loads or active clamping) to prevent VIN overvoltage that could damage MOSFETs or the ISL6522IR itself. The datasheet explicitly warns of catastrophic failure if this condition is unmanaged.
How is overcurrent protection implemented in ISL6522IR without a sense resistor?
The ISL6522IR implements overcurrent protection by monitoring the voltage drop across the upper MOSFET's rDS(ON). An internal 200µA current source at the OCSET pin develops a reference voltage across an external resistor (ROCSET); when the PHASE-to-drain voltage exceeds this reference, the controller initiates hiccup-mode soft-start restart. This method eliminates the need for a discrete current-sense resistor, reducing power loss, board area, and cost - but requires accurate knowledge of the MOSFET's rDS(ON) variation over temperature and manufacturing spread to set ROCSET correctly for the target IPEAK.
What is the function of the NC pins on the ISL6522IR QFN package?
The ISL6522IR QFN package has two NC (No Connect) pins: Pin 5 and Pin 15. These pins are not bonded internally and serve no electrical function. Per the official datasheet (FN9030 Rev 8.00, Page 2), they must remain unconnected in all designs - neither tied to GND, VCC, nor left floating with pull-ups/downs. Connecting them risks unintended behavior or latch-up. Their presence accommodates die variant routing or future enhancements but imposes no layout constraints beyond standard keep-out requirements.
Can ISL6522IR be used with ceramic output capacitors exclusively?
Yes, the ISL6522IR is fully compatible with ceramic-only output capacitor banks, especially for high-frequency, low-ESR applications like microprocessor core supplies. Its voltage-mode control loop and 15MHz error amplifier GBW stabilize well with ceramic-dominated output filters. However, designers must ensure total output capacitance meets transient current demands (e.g., >10,000µF effective for 30A CPU loads) and that ESR is sufficiently low to limit ripple voltage (ΔVOUT ≈ ΔI × ESR). Use multiple small-case ceramics (e.g., 1206/0805) placed close to the load to minimize ESL - avoid relying solely on one large capacitor due to parasitic inductance effects.
ISL6522IR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Renesas
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-VQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Type:
- Transistor Driver
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Output Phases:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 10.8V ~ 13.2V
- Frequency - Switching:
- 200kHz
- Duty Cycle (Max):
- 100%
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Clock Sync:
- No
- Serial Interfaces:
- -
- Control Features:
- Enable, Frequency Control, Phase Control, Soft Start
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-QFN (5x5)
ISL6522IR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ISL6522IR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ISL6522IR on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for ISL6522IR reliable?
The price and inventory of ISL6522IR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ISL6522IR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ISL6522IR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ISL6522IR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ISL6522IR?
ISL6522IR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ISL6522IR order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for ISL6522IR?
For technical support, including ISL6522IR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ISL6522IR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ISL6522IR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ISL6522IR products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that ISL6522IR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ISL6522IR?
All ISL6522IR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ISL6522IR, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The ISL6522IR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ISL6522IR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ISL6522IR Tags

-
UCC28C45DR
Texas Instruments

-
UCC28C40DR
Texas Instruments

-
UCC28C43DR
Texas Instruments

-
ZXSC410E6TA
Diodes Incorporated
-
LM3524DMX/NOPB
Texas Instruments
-
LM3489MMX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
MIC2102YML-TR
Microchip Technology

-
LM5148RGYR
Texas Instruments
-
TL598CDR
Texas Instruments

-
LM5155DSSR
Texas Instruments

-
LM25085MYX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
UCC2813DTR-0
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

