DC/DC Controller works with power blocks, DrMOS devices.

Press Release Summary:




Supplied in 5 x 5 mm QFN package, LTC3860 works with external power train devices, discrete N-channel MOSFETs, and associated gate drivers to promote design flexibility. Dual-output synchronous step-down DC/DC controller allows up to 12 phases to be paralleled and clocked out-of-phase, and differential amp provides true remote output voltage sensing of VOUT and ground terminals. Also, voltage mode control architecture allows for selectable or synchronized fixed operating frequency.



Original Press Release:



Dual Output, Multiphase Step-Down DC/DC Controller Operates with Power Blocks & DrMOS Devices



MILPITAS, CA - Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3860, a dual output synchronous step-down DC/DC controller with multiphase operation, differential output voltage sensing and high frequency operation. This controller works in conjunction with external power train devices such as Power Blocks and DrMOS, as well as discrete N-channel MOSFETs and associated gate drivers, enabling flexible design configurations. Up to 12 phases can be paralleled and clocked out-of-phase to minimize input and output filtering for very high current requirements (up to 300A). Applications include high current power distribution and industrial systems, DSP and ASIC supplies.

The differential amplifier provides true remote output voltage sensing of both VOUT and ground terminals, enabling high accuracy regulation where IR losses occur through vias, trace runs and interconnects. The LTC3860 operates with a VCC voltage ranging from 3V to 5.5V, a VIN voltage (drain voltage for the high-side MOSFET) from 3V to 24V and produces output voltages from 0.6V to 5V. The device's voltage mode control architecture allows for a selectable fixed operating frequency from 250kHz to 1.25MHz or it can be synchronized over the same range with its phased-lock loop (PLL). The output current is sensed by monitoring the voltage drop across the output inductor (DCR) for maximum efficiency or using a sense resistor. Its adjustable current limit can be configured for very low sense voltages (0mV to 50mV) to minimize power loss. The LTC3860's current sharing loop enables accurate current sharing between phases across multiple IC's both DC and during a load transient.

Additional features include adjustable soft start or tracking, output overvoltage protection and two power good output signals. Furthermore, it maintains ±1% reference voltage accuracy over an operating temperature range of -40°C to 125°C.

The LTC3860 is housed in a 32-lead 5mm x 5mm QFN package and is available from stock. The 1000-piece price starts at $2.59. For more information, visit www.linear.com.

Summary of Features: LTC3860

Can be used with Power Blocks & DrMOS Devices

Multiphase Operation (Up to 12-Phases) with Accurate Current Sharing

Differential Amplifier for Remote Voltage Sensing

VCC Ranging from 3V to 5.5V

VIN Ranging from 3V to 24V

Very Fast Transient Response

Phase Lockable Fixed Operating Frequency from 250kHz to 1.25MHz

DCR or RSENSE Output Current Sense

Adjustable Current Limit

Voltage Mode Control

Dynamic Current Sharing Between Phases

Adjustable Soft Start or Tracking

±1% Reference Voltage Accuracy over -40°C to +125°C

Power Good Outputs

Dual Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Controller

About Linear Technology
Linear Technology Corporation, a manufacturer of high performance linear integrated circuits, was founded in 1981, became a public company in 1986 and joined the S&P 500 index of major public companies in 2000. Linear Technology products include high performance amplifiers, comparators, voltage references, monolithic filters, linear regulators, DC-DC converters, battery chargers, data converters, communications interface circuits, RF signal conditioning circuits, µModule® products, and many other analog functions. Applications for Linear Technology's high performance circuits include telecommunications, cellular telephones, networking products such as optical switches, notebook and desktop computers, computer peripherals, video/multimedia, industrial instrumentation, security monitoring devices, high-end consumer products such as digital cameras and MP3 players, complex medical devices, automotive electronics, factory automation, process control, and military and space systems.
LT, LTC, LTM, µModule and are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corp. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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