Distributed inductor design for VRM applications

The design of planar magnetic components for application in voltage regulator modules is investigated. In particular, the application of distributed magnetic structures that facilitate locating the VRM closer to the processor load is proposed, so that interconnect impedance and its effects are reduced. It is shown that in addition to facilitating VRM packaging, the utilisation of winding and core regions is improved by replacing a single lumped component with parallel and coupled inductor designs. All designs are based on standard planar cores so that the limits of current technologies are identified and the need for developments in material and winding structures are identified.