Linear Tech Offers Complete 8A DC-DC Converter In 9mm x 15mm Surface Mount Package

New Products Oct 17, 2007 by Jeff Shepard

Linear Technology Corp. introduced the LTM4608, a complete 8A dc-dc uModule regulator system with on-board dc-dc controller, power switches, inductor compensation and input/output bypass capacitors. The LTM4608 operates from a supply range of 2.375 to 5.5V (6V max) and regulates an output voltage from 0.8 to 5V.

The complete circuit is housed in a light weight (1.0g) tiny 9mm x 15mm LGA package with 2.8mm profile (height). The compact size, low profile and light weight allow these devices to be mounted on the backside of a system printed circuit board, freeing room on the top side for FPGAs, ASICs, memory and other ICs. This family is used as a compact and high reliability dc-dc point-of-load solution for systems that need to convert low voltage input supplies such as 5V, 3.3V, 2.5V, or a Li-Ion battery to a lower output voltage without sacrificing space or performance.

With only 2.8mm height, LTM4608 is a suitable point-of-load dc-dc solution for systems that require low-profile packaging for more efficient air flow and easier heat removal from a circuit board. For higher power designs, multiple 8A LTM4608 uModule regulators can be easily paralleled to deliver up to 60W to a load while evenly sharing the load current. The LTM4608 features a current mode architecture for fast transient response, short-circuit protection and excellent line and load regulation. In addition, the device offers tracking for controlled ramp-up, ramp-down and sequencing of the output voltage as well as output voltage margining for system level testing. Also, a power good output signal indicates when the voltage is in regulation. Moreover, the LTM4608 offers a phase locked loop (PLL) for synchronization to an external clock to reduce undesirable frequency harmonics.

The LTM4608 is rated for operation from -40 to 85°C temperature range and is RoHS compliant; however, it can be used with Pb-based solder paste as well as Pb-free solder paste. 1,000-piece pricing starts at $11.30 each.