Common power converters typically use an analog controller, such as the TI UCCx products, since analog controllers are simple and low cost. In higher power and complex power converters, a more flexible product is needed. The typical option engineers look to are DSP-based microcontrollers, such as the TI C2x products. However, DSP-based microncontrollers have high firmware skill and component cost that deter engineers. DSP-based controllers also have slower response times and are limited by the MCU’s bandwidth. Thus, engineers possibly need a power controller that has more features than analog, but is not strictly driven by software.

The UCD3138x devices seek to bridge this gap by combining the benefits of both analog and DSP-based microcontrollers. The UCD3138x devices are fully programmable, giving flexibility in design. In addition, TI’s Fusion Digital Power Studio GUI Suite allows our customers to easily customize designs without intensive programming. The UCD3138x devices are also specifically designed for power converters. The dedicated power loops are not limited by the MCU bandwidth and the firmware is designed to be easily configured for power applications. Thus, power engineers can design fast yet flexible power converters.