Diodes' self-excited piezo sounder driver can extend run time

Self-excited Piezo Sounder driver from Diodes Corporation extends run time and maintains high SPL output throughout battery life

[Plano, Texas, USA, March 21, 2023] Diodes Corporation (Diodes) will launch a new driver IC to meet the increased demand for piezo sounder output . DIODES PAM8906 has an integrated synchronous boost converter to provide higher sound pressure level (SPL), allowing sound to travel farther. The drive also incorporates features that extend battery-powered operation. Primary applications for this device include smoke/gas/liquid alarms, air humidifiers, handheld GPS units, industrial security alarms, medical equipment and home appliances.

The PAM8906 operates in external pulse width modulation (PWM) input or free-running mode, while other solutions typically only support one of these modes. This provides greater application flexibility and can support a wider variety of chirpers.

Its boost converter uses a small 0.47µH inductor and switches at a fixed 1.8MHz frequency. This provides engineers with a solution that significantly reduces board space and reduces the bill of materials (BOM). It features low quiescent current (<1µA) and auto-shutdown/wake-up features to help extend operating time in battery-powered applications.

PAM8906 has three output voltages: 20VPP, 24VPP and 36VPP . This can create different output versions for the same system. This device, unlike charge-pump-based alternatives, maintains output even if the battery voltage drops over time.

The PAM8906 sounder driver from Diodes is available in a 10-pin MSOP package.