Step-Down Regulator

24V Input Synchronous Step-Down Regulator Delivers 12A from a 9mm x 9mm QFN

News Release from: Linear Technology (UK) Limited
11 February 2008

Linear Technology has announced the LTC3610, a high efficiency, synchronous buck regulator which can deliver up to 12A of continuous output current at voltages as low as 0.6V. It operates from an input voltage of 4V to 24V (28V ABS Max), making it ideal for applications with multicell Li-Ion, lead acid batteries or fixed voltage rails up to 24V. Its valley current control architecture delivers very low duty cycle operation at high frequencies with excellent transient response. The operating frequency is set by an external resistor. Switching frequencies of up to 1 MHz allow the utilization of small, low cost ceramic capacitors and low profile inductors.

The LTC3610 uses internal switches with an RDS(ON) of only 12mOhm and 6.5mOhm to deliver efficiencies as high as 95%. The LTC3610 can be configured for discontinuous or forced continuous operation. Forced continuous operation reduces noise and RF interference while discontinuous mode provides high efficiency by reducing switching losses at light loads while requiring only 900uA of quiescent current. No load quiescent current is only 15uA. Additional features include a Power Good voltage monitor, adjustable current limit, output overvoltage protection and programmable soft-start.

The LTC3610 is available from stock in a 64-lead, 9mm x 9mm QFN package. Pricing starts at $8.50 in 1,000-piece quantities.

Summary of Features of the LTC3610:

12A Output Current
Wide VIN Range = 4V to 24V (28V ABS Max)
Internal N-Channel MOSFETs
High Efficiency: Up to 95%
True Current Mode Control
Optimized for High Step-Down Ratios: tON(MIN) ≤100ns
Extremely Fast Transient Response
Stable with Ceramic COUT
±1% 0.6V Voltage Reference
Power Good Output Voltage Monitor
Adjustable On-Time/Switching Frequency
Adjustable Current Limit
Programmable Soft-Start
Output Overvoltage Protection
Optional Short-Circuit Shutdown Timer
Low Shutdown IQ: 15uA
Available in a 9mm × 9mm 64-Pin QFN Package