TOREX SEMICONDUCTOR (Tokyo, Japan) has introduced the XCL101 series of micro DC/DC converters.  The tiny CL-2025 package outline measures just 2.5 mm x 2.0 mm x1.0 mm and is the first step-up type converter in the XCL series of micro DC/DCs with integrated coil.

The only external components necessary for most applications are just two ceramic capacitors. Output voltage is predefined by an internal voltage divider network so 33 variants of the chip cover the complete output range from 1.8 V to 5.0 V in 0.1 V steps. The chip can supply a maximum output current of 100 mA and has a maximum power dissipation of 1 W. Its a no-load quiescent current is 6.3 μA

The input voltage range between 0.9 V and 5.5 V makes it suitable for operation from a single alkaline or nickel-metal hydride cell.  The integrated coil simplifies board layout, reduces its PCB footprint and the fewer PCB tracks result in reduced radiated noise. Two further variants of the chip give a load-disconnect function at shutdown or a bypass mode function to maintain continuity between input and output.