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I want to switch the supply power of a low current high frequency load between 3V and 1.8V using a microcontroller. They are powering a CPLD IO-bank that I use as a level translator. Current consumption will be 20mA peak.

I already have the two voltages from regulators to power other things, so I want I really want is to multiplex between the two supplies I guess.

Is there an easy way to switch between the two supplies using one or two GPIO-pins? I need fairly low impedance switching and I can't tolerate any voltage drop.

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  • \$\begingroup\$ I'm unclear to what you want - it's either switch the load between two voltage levels or switch the power supply that feeds the load between two power levels. \$\endgroup\$
    – Andy aka
    Oct 17, 2015 at 15:43

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You could put a pfet between the supply's and the Vio pin on the CPLD. Just make sure you only turn one on at a time. Does the CPLD not have multiple Vio banks? Because as soon as you flip the the higher voltage, everything will see it. Can all the translated devices stand that voltage?

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  • \$\begingroup\$ With 1.8 V on the source, you might have a hard time finding a discrete PMOS that can fully switch, especially since OP says "I can't tolerate any voltage drop". \$\endgroup\$
    – The Photon
    Oct 17, 2015 at 16:20
  • \$\begingroup\$ With a peak current of 20mA I assumed you could find something, or buffer the gate with the 3v and a BJT. I don't feel this is a good solution for high speed digital though... If that is really what he means by high speed. \$\endgroup\$
    – MadHatter
    Oct 17, 2015 at 18:20
  • \$\begingroup\$ Would something like a solid state relay possibly work or 2 bus switches for like hot swap bays and cards? \$\endgroup\$
    – MadHatter
    Oct 17, 2015 at 18:23

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