Single-Chip Synchronous Buck Controller with USB PD3.1 Source Controller from Diodes Incorporated Simplifies Automotive USB Type-C Charging Designs

Key Terms

synchronous buck controller technical

A synchronous buck controller is an electronic component that manages how a device steadily reduces higher input voltage to a lower one while minimizing wasted energy, similar to a traffic cop directing cars to the most efficient lanes. For investors, it matters because better controllers improve product battery life, heat generation and manufacturing cost, impacting product performance, customer satisfaction and profit margins across hardware portfolios.

usb type-c technical

A USB Type-C is a standardized, reversible connector and cable format used to transfer data, video and power between electronic devices. Think of it like a universal wall outlet for gadgets: when manufacturers adopt the same plug, products become easier to use and cheaper to make. For investors, Type-C adoption affects product compatibility, supply-chain costs, regulatory compliance and consumer demand, all of which can influence sales and margins.

mosfets technical

A MOSFET is a tiny electronic switch used inside chips and power circuits to control the flow of electricity, functioning much like a faucet that opens and closes to let current move when needed. Investors care because MOSFETs directly affect how fast, efficient and small electronic devices and power systems can be, so supply, performance improvements or cost changes in MOSFETs can impact manufacturers’ margins, product competitiveness and capital spending.

vin dc power pass-through technical

VIN DC power pass-through is a hardware feature that allows an incoming direct-current (DC) power feed (often labeled VIN for “voltage in”) to go through a device and either power it directly or continue on to another device without being converted or interrupted. Investors should care because it affects product convenience, compatibility and reliability—features that can reduce accessory costs, lower failure points and influence customer preference and warranty expenses, all of which can affect sales and margins.

i2c interface technical

An i2c interface is a simple electronic wiring method that lets tiny computer chips inside a device talk to each other over just two wires: one for timing and one for data. Think of it as a two-lane road where many components take turns sending short messages. Investors care because i2c affects how easily components are added, how much devices cost, and how quickly manufacturers can update or scale products.

PLANO, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Diodes Incorporated (Diodes) (Nasdaq: DIOD) announces the APK43070Q, a highly integrated, automotive-compliant* synchronous buck controller in combination with a USB Type-C^® PD3.1 source controller. This level of integration reduces the number of external components, lowers BOM cost, and simplifies the design of high-power USB Type-C charging ports. Typical applications include single-port and multi-port USB Type-C charging modules in vehicles.

Operating from a 4V to 36V input, the device supports USB PD3.1 extended power range (EPR) and adjustable voltage supply (AVS) up to 28V, and standard power range (SPR) and programmable power supply (PPS) up to 21V. These capabilities enable USB Type-C charging ports delivering up to 140W.

The constant-frequency synchronous step-down controller with high drive strength, optimized dead‑time, and an elevated gate‑drive voltage enables efficient mid‑ to high‑power charging using external N-channel MOSFETs. This allows designers to choose MOSFETs that optimize efficiency and thermal performance. To further enhance converter power efficiency, the V_IN DC power pass-through mode is supported. This architecture allows the high-side MOSFET to act as the V_BUS switch, eliminating the need for an additional output switch and further reducing system cost.

The APK43070Q integrates an I2C interface with a controller/target addressing scheme. This enables smart power sharing across up to eight USB Type-C ports through resistor selection without an external microcontroller (MCU). The result is a simpler system architecture for multi-port charging platforms.

The device includes several protection features to improve reliability. These include overvoltage, overcurrent, undervoltage, and overtemperature protection, plus connector moisture detection. The CC1/CC2 and DP/DN pins tolerate short-to-V_BUS events up to 30V, helping protect the system from accidental faults.

The APK43070Q is available in the 4mm x 4mm W-QFN4040-24/SWP (Type A1-B) package and priced at $0.80 in 1,000-piece quantities. A standard-compliance version, the APK43070, is also available and is suitable for industrial and commercial applications.

For more information about USB Type-C and USB Power Delivery products, please visit: https://www.diodes.com/products/power-management/usb-type-c-and-usb-power-delivery-ic.

About Diodes Incorporated
Diodes Incorporated (Nasdaq: DIOD), delivers high-quality semiconductor products to the world’s leading companies in the automotive, industrial, computing, consumer electronics, and communications markets. We leverage our expanded product portfolio of analog and power solutions combined with a flexible hybrid manufacturing model that meet customers’ needs. Our broad range of application-specific products, delivered through a total solutions sales approach and supported by global operations including engineering, testing, manufacturing, and customer service, enable us to be a premier provider for high-growth markets. For more information, visit www.diodes.com.

*Automotive-compliant - AEC qualified, manufactured in facilities certified to IATF 16949, supporting PPAP documents.

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