Dual Output Synchronous DC-DC Converter

Oct 26, 2009 11:53 AM

Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3868/-1, a low quiescent current, 2-phase dual output synchronous step-down DC-DC controller. The LTC3868/-1 draws only 170uA with one output active and only 300uA when both outputs are active, making it ideal for battery-powered applications. With both outputs shut down, the LTC3868/-1 draws only 8uA. The LTC3868/-1 has an input supply range of 4V to 24V and each output can be set from 0.8V to 14V at output currents up to 20 amps. With efficiency as high as 95%, a LTC3868/-1 based DC-DC converter is well suited for powering industrial and medical devices, along with portable instruments, notebook and netbook computers.

The LTC3868/-1 operates with a user-adjustable, fixed frequency between 50kHz and 900kHz, and can be synchronized to an external clock from 75kHz to 850kHz using its phase-locked-loop (PLL). The user can select from continuous operation, pulse skipping and low ripple Burst Mode® operation during light loads. These parts also safely start up with a prebiased load by powering up and down in pulse skip mode. The LTC3868/-1's 2-phase operation reduces input capacitance requirements and its current mode architecture provides easy loop compensation and fast transient response. Both outputs have adjustable soft-start to control the turn-on time, and the output overload protection feature latches off the converter until the input voltage is recycled. The LTC3868/-1 also features a tight ±1.5% reference voltage accuracy over a -40°C to 85°C operating temperature range. The LTC3868 is the fully featured part with additional functions beyond the LTC3868-1 including a clock out, phase modulation, two power good outputs and adjustable current limit.

The LTC3868 is offered in a 32-lead 5mm x 5mm QFN package and the LTC3868-1 in  28-pin SSOP or 4mm x 5mm QFN-28 packages. Pricing starts at $2.59 in 1,000-piece quantities.

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