October 19, 2012 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-gwak) announced the launch of the LTC3122, a 3MHz current-mode, synchronous boost DC/DC converter with integrated output disconnect functionality. The internal 2.5A switch provides high output voltage up to 15V across an input voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V at startup (0.5V during operation), making it ideal for battery-powered applications or standard 3.3V and 5V power sources. The LTC3122 can deliver a maximum continuous output current of 800mA at 12V from a 5V input. Pin-selectable Burst Mode® operation reduces quiescent current to just 25µA, extending battery runtime in handheld applications. The combination of enhanced thermal performance in a 3mm × 4mm DFN-12 (or MSOP-12) package and a maximum switching frequency of 3MHz enables designers to balance PCB solution size and efficiency.

The LTC3122 features internal synchronous switches with RDS(ON) of only 121mOhm (N-channel) and 188mOhm (P-channel), achieving maximum efficiency of 95%. The output disconnect function allows the output voltage to completely discharge during shutdown and eliminates large inrush currents during startup, minimizing stress on the input power supply. The LTC3122 also regulates the output voltage when the input voltage exceeds the output voltage, enabling the creation of a device compatible with all battery types. For applications requiring the lowest possible noise operation, the LTC3122 can be configured through an external pin to operate in fixed PWM mode. Additional features include external synchronization, output overvoltage protection, and robust short-circuit protection. The LTC3122 is an ideal solution for boost applications requiring outputs up to 15V, where high efficiency, compact solution size, and high reliability are critical factors.

Both LTC3122EDE and LTC3122EMSE are supplied in 12-pin 3mm × 4mm DFN or thermally enhanced MSOP packages. Pricing is set at $2.33 per unit in quantities of 1,000. Industrial grade versions LTC3122IDE and LTC3122IMSE are guaranteed to operate over a junction temperature range of -40°C to 125°C and are priced at $2.73 per unit in quantities of 1,000. All versions are available immediately. For more information, visit www.linear.com/product/LTC3122.

Photo caption: Compact, efficient 2.5A synchronous booster delivering output up to 15V

Product Features: LTC3122

• VIN range: 1.8V ~ 5.5V, 500mV after startup
• Output voltage range: 2.2V ~ 15V
• 800mA output current delivery, VIN = 5V & VOUT = 12V
• Input-output disconnect during shutdown
• Synchronous rectification: up to 95% efficiency
• Inrush current limiting
• Adjustable switching frequency up to 3MHz, synchronizable with external clock
• Selectable Burst Mode® operation: 25µA IQ
• Output overvoltage protection
• Soft start
• Less than 1µA supply current during shutdown
• 12-pin, 3mm × 4mm × 0.75mm thermally enhanced DFN & MSOP package