6/3/2003 PMU Integrates Major Functions for Handheld Devices The AS3601 from austriamicrosystems offers an effective price and performance solution by integrating all major functions for handheld devices: dc-dc step-up and step-down converters, LDOs, a battery charger/fuel gauge, general purpose I/Os (GPIOs), features such as white LED drivers, and an audio amplifier—all on a single chip. Due to the high integration level, it consumes 60% less PCB space and costs 50% less than comparable solutions.