Diode ZLPM8000 series set-top box power management and control ICs

The ZLPM8000 series ICs from Diodes Incorporated were designed to increase efficiency and reliability of set-top boxes (STB), TVs with built-in satellite tuners and PC satellite tuner cards. The family of low power LNB (low noise block) power management and control ICs offers manufacturers the flexibility to address global satellite TV standards.

Three single-output devices are available. DiSEqC 1 is supported by the ZLPM8012 (450 mA), while both DiSEqC 1 and DiSEqC 2 are supported by the high-current ZLPM8010 (750 mA) and low-current ZLPM8011 (450 mA) fully featured models.

To increase overall STB system efficiency, the ICs’ low quiescent current boost converter operates from a standard 12 V power rail. In turn, the converter supplies a very low volt drop (500 mV) LDO regulator, providing control signals and low noise power output to the LNB. The device’s standby operating mode puts it into a deep sleep mode in which current consumption is only 600 µA.

The LNB supply generated by the ZLPM8000 series is highly programmable, being configurable in 0.25 V steps from 10.25 V through to 19.5 V, which enables designers to match with any system architecture and adjust for cable drops or poorly performing LNBs. The devices’ integral protection and diagnostic features include overcurrent limit, line short and open circuit, overtemperature shutdown and undervoltage alerts.

An integrated 22 kHz tone generator provides for DiSEqC and traditional band switching control that is said to be reliable even under no-load conditions. To enable two-way communication between LNB and STB, the ZLPM8010 and ZPLM8011 include the Zetex LNB DiSEqC receive technology, which allows high reliability detection of a wide range of signals while assuring good signal rejection.

Fully configurable via I²C interface or standard logic inputs, the ZLPM8000 series devices are easily tailored to handle regional variations in satellite TV standards. Using the I²C port, designers can access an array of device functionalities, including LNB control, output adjustment, a four-level current limit, low-current standby and various line check features.

The three devices in the ZLPM8000 product line are provided in the compact 20-lead, 4 x 4 mm QFN package and are pin-compatible, enabling product designers to change the IC to match local market requirements without having to modify PCBs.