New Industry Products

Linear Tech Dual Output Synchronous DC-DC Controller Draws Only 50uA In Battery-Powered Systems

August 13, 2009 by Jeff Shepard

Linear Technology Corp. introduced the LTC3857/-1, an ultralow quiescent current, 2-phase dual output synchronous step-down dc-dc controller that draws only 50µA when one output is active and only 80µA when both outputs are enabled. With both outputs shut down, the LTC3857/-1 draws a mere 8µA. This part is well suited for automotive applications where one or both supplies remain active in standby mode.

The LTC3857/-1’s input supply range of 4 to 38V is wide enough to protect against automotive high voltage transients, continue operation during cold crank and cover a broad range of battery chemistries. Each output can be set from 0.8V to 24V at output currents up to 20A, with efficiencies as high as 95%. The LTC3857/-1 is suitable for powering GPS systems, audio systems, CD/DVD players and disk drives.

The LTC3857/-1 has powerful 1.1Ω on-chip MOSFET gate drivers. It operates with a selectable fixed frequency between 50 and 900kHz, and can be synchronized to an external clock from 75 to 850kHz with its phased-locked loop (PLL). The user can select from continuous operation, pulse skipping and low ripple Burst Mode® operation during light loads, which safely powers pre-biased loads. The LTC3857/-1’s 2-phase operation reduces input capacitance requirements. Its current mode architecture is said to provide easy loop compensation, fast transient response and excellent line regulation.

Both outputs have adjustable soft-start to control the turn-on time and feature a tight ±1% reference voltage accuracy over the operating temperature range of -40 to 85°C. Output current sensing is accomplished by measuring the voltage drop across the output inductor (DCR) or by using an optional sense resistor. Current foldback limits MOSFET heat dissipation during overload conditions. There are two versions offered; the LTC3857 is the fully featured part with functions that include a clock out, phase modulation, two separate power good signals and adjustable current limit. The LTC3857-1 has one power good signal monitoring both outputs and a 50mV fixed current sense threshold voltage.

The LTC3857 is offered in a 32-lead 5mm x 5mm QFN package and the LTC3857-1 is housed in a 28-pin SSOP package. Pricing starts at $4.47 each in 1,000-piece quantities.