PWM controllers for automotive applications

The pulse width modulation (PWM) circuit approaches used in such applications as switching mode voltage regulators, positional motor control, fuel injector drivers, ignition drivers, and ABS control are discussed, as are the process-performance tradeoffs. The power efficiency improvements and switching considerations which lead to reduced-temperature IC operation when PWM is used are demonstrated. Its application to resistive and inductive load and also to regulators in automotive applications is shown. Future trends for the use of PWM output techniques in cars are discussed, and methods to further improve the cost effectiveness of PWM devices by transferring some of the features found in the intelligent switch to the outstation controller are examined