Reduce computational time through PMBus input energy elapsed time per line

Analog Devices announces the Power by Linear LTC2972, a new two-channel power system manager (PSM) capable of monitoring current, power, and energy from the intermediate bus input to the point-of-load converter.

To reduce cooling and utility costs in server racks and data centers, it is essential to reduce, manage, and optimize the power consumption of circuit boards. Monitoring the power and energy usage of circuit boards is a prerequisite for this.

The LTC2972 significantly reduces cumbersome polling and computation by conveniently providing input energy and elapsed time reported in joules via the PMBus interface. By digitally measuring point-of-load (POL) output voltage, current, and power, the LTC2972 enables long-term monitoring of power system conversion efficiency. The LTC2972 accelerates time to market, enhances system reliability, and optimizes board energy consumption by adding comprehensive software-based monitoring and control to the power systems of FPGA, ASIC, and DSP boards.

Power output voltage is set and monitored using an industry-leading 16-bit ADC with a total unadjusted error (TUE) of 0.25%, improving board yields and durability. Power output current is measured using a sense resistor, inductor DCR, or the power supply's IMON output. It also has built-in power sequencing, supervision, and EEPROM fault-logging capabilities.

When a fault occurs, it is logged to an EEPROM black box, simplifying failure analysis and facilitating future system improvements. Programmable power-good, GPIO, and pins are available for each channel. The LTC2972 can be connected to other PSM products to coordinate sequencing and fault management for two or more power rails. Programming and power system data readback are possible using PMBus-compatible commands. The LTpowerPlay development environment, which supports all Power by Linear power system management (PSM) devices, simplifies user configuration. Once programmed, the software operates autonomously without any further coding.