Torex Introduces Automotive-Grade XD9704/XD9705 DC/DC Converter Series for High-Efficiency Power Applications
Torex Semiconductor Ltd. has expanded its automotive power management portfolio with the introduction of the XD9704 and XD9705 series, two compact step-down DC/DC converters engineered for modern vehicle electronics and industrial systems. The newly launched devices comply with the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 automotive reliability standard, making them suitable for demanding applications that require dependable performance across a wide operating temperature range.
Designed for systems powered directly from automotive battery lines, the converters support input voltages up to 36 volts and can tolerate brief voltage peaks of up to 46 volts. This capability allows them to operate reliably in harsh electrical environments commonly found in vehicles, where transient voltage spikes and fluctuating power conditions are routine.
The new converter family delivers output currents of up to 600 mA, enabling designers to power communication modules, electronic control units, sensors, telematics equipment, infotainment systems, and other low-power automotive electronics. Beyond automotive use, the devices are also positioned for industrial applications that require efficient and compact voltage regulation.
One of the Torex key design priorities behind the XD9704 and XD9705 series is reducing overall system size. Operating at a high switching frequency allows engineers to use smaller inductors and capacitors, helping minimize printed circuit board space. This compact approach is especially valuable in today’s automotive electronics, where manufacturers continue to integrate more functionality into increasingly smaller modules.
Energy efficiency is another major advantage of the new converters. Their low quiescent current helps reduce power consumption during standby and light-load operation, contributing to improved overall energy efficiency. By maintaining strong efficiency across varying load conditions, the converters can reduce heat generation compared with traditional linear voltage regulators, simplifying thermal management and potentially improving long-term system reliability.
Torex has also adopted a different power-stage architecture than many conventional buck converters. Instead of relying solely on a standard N-channel driver configuration, the company has integrated a P-channel driver transistor that enables 100% duty-cycle operation. This feature becomes particularly valuable during automotive engine cranking, when battery voltage can temporarily drop below normal operating levels. Under these conditions, the converter can pass the available input voltage directly to the output, helping maintain operation of connected electronic systems.
Reliable startup behavior is supported through built-in power management features such as soft-start functionality and a Power Good output. These functions help designers implement controlled power sequencing, reduce inrush current during startup, and improve coordination between multiple power rails within complex electronic systems.
Although the two product families share the same basic hardware platform, they are optimized for different operating priorities. The XD9704 series uses a fixed PWM control method intended to deliver stable switching performance with low output ripple, making it suitable for applications that require clean and predictable power delivery.
The Torex XD9705 series, meanwhile, automatically switches between PWM and PFM operating modes depending on system load. This adaptive control strategy improves efficiency during light-load conditions while still delivering strong performance under heavier loads, making it well suited for battery-powered systems and applications with varying power demands.
Initially, the new converters are available in a compact SOT-89-5 package that balances thermal performance with board-space efficiency. Torex has also announced plans to expand the family with an even smaller DFN1820-6J package currently under development, providing additional flexibility for designers working on space-constrained automotive and industrial products.
The Torex launch reflects the growing demand for advanced power management solutions as vehicles become increasingly dependent on electronics, connectivity, advanced driver assistance systems, and intelligent sensing technologies. Efficient voltage regulation has become a critical component of these systems, helping manufacturers improve performance while managing heat, power consumption, and available installation space.
Industrial equipment manufacturers are also expected to benefit from the Torex new product family. Factory automation, embedded control systems, portable instruments, and communication infrastructure all require compact, high-efficiency power converters capable of operating reliably across wide temperature ranges and under challenging electrical conditions.
Torex Semiconductor has built its reputation around CMOS-based analog power management technologies. Its portfolio includes low-dropout regulators, voltage detectors, load switches, and DC/DC converters that serve customers in consumer electronics, industrial automation, healthcare, communications, and automotive markets. The addition of the XD9704 and XD9705 series further strengthens the company’s offering for engineers developing next-generation electronic systems that demand compact size, high efficiency, and automotive-grade reliability.
With support for high input voltages, efficient operation across diverse load conditions, robust transient tolerance, and compliance with the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification standard, the XD9704 and XD9705 series are designed to address the evolving power requirements of modern automotive and industrial electronics.
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