December 26, 2024 
Professional magazine and portal dedicated to electronics 
Allegro MicroSystems announced the launch of the ARG81800 - a robust, ultra-low Iq, low EMI DC/DC regulator ideal for keep-alive supply applications.
As electrical content in cars continues to increase, so does the continuous draw of keep-alive systems on the battery. Components must be able to pass the “airport test” - drawing as little current as possible so that the battery can still start the car after an extended period (such as a vacation). Similarly, battery operated industrial systems must limit battery drain to extend service period.
The ARG81800 DC/DC regulator draws just 8 μA, from VIN while regulating 3.3V or 5.0Vout at no load. In comparison to the typical ~100uA budgeted for automotive battery-powered subsystems, this low Iq solution frees up significant overhead to be allocated to other current draws that may occur in the system, allowing more design margin (more info).
