[metafex]

I have the most experience with TI silicon, so that's where i can talk most about the datasheets.

Some are excellent, many are really good and except for the odd outlier, most are sufficient. Especially certain lines of the newer dc/dc's have really good datasheets where you can just take the reference circuit in the datasheet as is, plug in your values in the formulas to get your inductance, resistors and cap values. Oh, and webench power designer also does a good job if your application is not too complex.

And complexity is also why i mentioned the simpleswitcher series. Other vendors also have similar simple integrated and modern solutions. With good documentation.

And as for Linear, they have amazing chips and documentation with a price that brings tears to your eyes. I have a love/hate relationship with those.

As for calling up vendors, TI at least has their e2e forum where you usually can get an answer no matter how much you pay them, you just need to create an account.

[justinclift]

Webench Power Designer looks nifty, thanks for pointing it out. :)