Buck Converter Delivers 600 mA from Inputs as Low as 1.6 V

Mar 23, 2005 10:57 AM

From Linear Technology, the LTC3409 1.7-/2.6-MHz synchronous buck regulator up to 600 mA of continuous output current from input voltages as low as 1.6 V or as high as 5.5 V. That ranges makes the regulator suitable for single cell Li-ion, multi-cell alkaline or NiMH applications.

Using a constant frequency and current-mode architecture, the LTC3409 can generate output voltages as low as 0.61 V, enabling it to power the latest generation of low-voltage digital signal processors and microcontrollers. The user-selectable, 1.7-MHz or 2.6-MHz switching frequency allows the use of tiny, low-cost ceramic capacitors and inductors less than 1.2 mm in height. The LTC3409 uses internal switches with an R_DS(ON) of only 0.35 Ω to deliver efficiencies as high as 95%. It also uses low dropout 100% duty cycle operation to allow output voltages approaching V_IN, further extending battery run-time.

Automatic Burst Mode operation reduces gate charge losses when the load current drops below the level required for continuous operation, providing optimum efficiency at light loads. No load quiescent current is only 60 uA and ‹1 uA in shutdown, ensuring maximum battery life. If the application is noise sensitive, the user can inhibit Burst Mode, replacing it with a lower noise pulse-skipping mode.

The LTC3409EDD is available from stock in a 3-mm × 3-mm DFN-8 package. Pricing starts at $2.15 for the LTC3409 in 1000-piece quantities.

For more information, visit www.linear.com.

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