Linear Adds Spread Spectrum Clock for Switching Regulators

Linear Technology Corp. has announced the LTC6908, a tiny spread spectrum silicon oscillator optimized for switching regulators. Using a single resistor, the LTC6908 is programmable to any frequency from 50kHz to 10MHz. The LTC6908 comes in two configurations, each with dual outputs. The LT6908-1's outputs are 180° out of phase (complementary outputs) and the LTC6908-2's outputs are 90° out of phase (quadrature outputs).

Enabling the pseudo-random spread-spectrum provides a simple, effective way to reduce electromagnetic interference in switching regulators. In the event that the switcher bandwidth is limited, the LTC6908 modulation rate can be adjusted to one of three settings.

"Implementing spread-spectrum for switchers is now trivial" says Doug LaPorte, design section lead for Linear Technology. "The user sets the frequency with one resistor and selects a modulation rate."

Fully specified over the temperature range of -40°C to 125°C, the LTC6908 offers the same features available with Linear's silicon oscillator family. These parts are available in a compact 6-lead ThinSOT™ package and a 2mm x 3mm DFN.

The LTC6908 is in full production with prices starting at $1.65 each in 1,000-piece quantities.