This application report describes an alternative use of the TLC555-Q1 device as a charge pump. The square-wave output switching between the supply voltage and GND with few additional capacitors and diodes makes the device suitable for generating a positive or negative voltage multiplier. Using the TLC555-Q1 device as a charge pump is a cheap and easy solution for doubling, tripling, or inverting the supply voltage.

A charge pump can be used in automotive applications requiring reverse battery protection. A diode can also be used for battery protection; however, it causes a voltage drop and lowers efficiency. The charge pump is also capable of driving a MOSFET transistor with low drain-to-source on resistance.

Charge pumps can be used in a nonsynchronous rectifier when in low dropout mode to cause a high output ripple with light load. The charge-pump output can be connected to the BOOT pin for providing the necessary voltage to drive the upper-pass transistor.

The semi-expert techniques for automating amplifier circuit designs calls for a combination of hard specification requirements and judgement margins. A design tool must support these techniques to zero in on the appropriate operational amplifier (op amp) and external components.

The difficulty is in the detail when selecting amplifiers and external components to meet the performance criteria for the application.

This application report provides a summary of the differences between AM572x Silicon Revision 1.1/2.0 and AM571x Silicon Revision 1.0 high-performance ARM® devices.