TI compiles all its notebook support ICs: One processor requires many, many power ICs

Texas Instruments created a PDF of all the support circuits that surround the [yawn] processor in a notebook PC. It's broken down into sections: Main power, I/O power, DDR (memory) power, graphics power, battery charger, power switches, gas gauges, display power, adapter power, system monitoring and power, audio power amps, and interface. (Check it for yourself here, Notebook Computer Guide.)

Notice the trend here? TI does so very well in the PC business because of its dominant position in power control circuitry. Compare this to its position in the 90's when it lost the general microprocessor business to the Intels and Motorolas, and seemed doomed to be an also-ran IC company. Now TI looks like a pretty smart player in the processing business.

Could it be a model for future electronic developments? Just as the catch-phrase for politics is "Follow the money," for electronics it's a safe bet to "Follow the power." As processors become pervasive, so must their power.