W83793AG

Overview

The W83793AG is a hardware monitor IC from Nuvoton Technology Corporation, packaged in a 56-pin SSOP. It operates on a 5V supply and monitors critical system parameters including 10 analog voltages (excluding VcoreB), 1 thermal diode input, 2 thermistor inputs, and up to 12 fan tachometer inputs. The device features 8 PWM/DC fan outputs, an SMBus 2.0 interface with ARP support, and compliance with ASF 2.0 specifications for remote management.

Feature Summary

• Supports SMBus 2.0 Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) for dynamic address assignment and conflict resolution in multi-device systems.
• Complies with ASF 2.0 sensor specifications to enable network management and OS-absent status monitoring via Platform Event Trap frames.
• Integrates SMART FAN II technology for automatic fan speed control based on temperature thresholds to minimize acoustic noise.
• Includes a Watch Dog Timer function capable of issuing system resets through the WDTRST# pin upon abnormal states.

Applications

• High-end computer systems such as servers and workstations requiring stable hardware monitoring.
• Network server environments utilizing ASF 2.0 for remote client status monitoring without operating system presence.
• Systems requiring multiple I2C devices where dynamic address resolution prevents address conflicts.

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity by checking the Vendor ID (A3HEX or 5CHEX) and Chip ID (7BHEX) registers against official documentation. Confirm package type is 56-pin SSOP. Ensure design accounts for the removal of VcoreB and VIDB functions compared to the W83793G variant. Check for end-of-life status as datasheet revision dates may indicate obsolescence.

Selection Notes

Select the W83793AG over the W83793G when dual CPU core voltage monitoring (VIDB/VcoreB) and additional thermal diode inputs are not required. This reduced-feature version maintains full SMBus, ASF, and fan control capabilities while simplifying the circuit design for single-core or non-VID-B dependent applications. Ensure compatibility with 5VSB power requirements.

Part Context

The W83793AG serves as a reduced-function variant of the W83793G within Nuvoton's hardware monitor lineup. While sharing the same 56-pin SSOP package and core monitoring architecture, it omits specific pins related to CPU B voltage regulation and extra thermal diodes. It retains essential features like PECI interface support, watchdog timer, and intelligent fan control algorithms suitable for standard server and workstation platforms.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers: None identified in source material.

FAQ

What is the primary difference between the W83793AG and W83793G?

The W83793AG removes three sets of thermal diode inputs (TD2-TD4), the VcoreB input, and the VIDB functionality found in the W83793G. All other major features, including the 56-pin SSOP package, remain identical.

How does the W83793AG handle address conflicts in I2C systems?

It supports the SMBus 2.0 Address Resolution Protocol (ARP). After sending its UDID, it dynamically assigns a new address to resolve conflicts, allowing up to four devices to be wired together on the same I2C bus.

Can the W83793AG monitor case open events?

Yes, it includes a CASEOPEN# detection input that latches the state even if the case is subsequently closed, providing protection against unauthorized access.