Microchip Unveils MCP16701 PMIC to Address Growing Power Demands in AI-Driven Applications

As artificial intelligence continues its rapid integration into industrial systems, computing platforms, and data center environments, the demand for advanced, efficient power management solutions is intensifying. Responding to this trend, Microchip Technology has introduced the MCP16701, a highly integrated Power Management Integrated Circuit (PMIC) tailored for designers working with high-performance MPUs and FPGAs.

The MCP16701 incorporates eight 1.5A buck converters, which can be configured in parallel for higher current needs, along with four 300 mA internal Low Dropout Voltage Regulators (LDOs) and an onboard controller for driving external MOSFETs. This level of integration significantly simplifies design, delivering up to a 48% reduction in PCB area and cutting the component count by over 60% compared to traditional discrete solutions.

Packaged in a compact 8 mm × 8 mm VQFN, the MCP16701 offers a flexible, space-saving power management platform ideal for applications where board space is at a premium. Its feature set is designed to support a wide range of power requirements and aligns seamlessly with Microchip’s PIC64-GX MPUs and PolarFire® FPGAs.

An integrated I2C interface enhances communication between the PMIC and the broader system, making configuration and monitoring straightforward. The device operates reliably across a wide junction temperature range from −40°C to +105°C, ensuring performance under demanding environmental conditions.'

One of the MCP16701’s standout features is its ability to dynamically adjust output voltages in fine 12.5 mV or 25 mV steps. This provides maximum flexibility for designers to fine-tune power delivery based on specific application needs, optimizing overall system efficiency and performance.

The MCP16701 expands Microchip’s growing PMIC portfolio, joining established products such as the MCP16502 and MCP16501. These solutions are aimed at empowering high-performance MPU platforms across a broad spectrum of use cases, including industrial computing, data centers, IoT infrastructure, and edge AI applications.

To accelerate development and evaluation, the MCP16701 is supported by the EV23P28A Evaluation Board and an intuitive graphical user interface (GUI), enabling developers to quickly assess the PMIC’s performance in real-world conditions.