October 31, 2013 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-kwak) announced the release of the current-mode dual-output synchronous step-down DC/DC controller (Product Name: LTC3774). This product enables the use of very low DC resistance (DCR) power inductors by enhancing the current sense signal. Power inductor DCR, reduced to 0.2 milliamperes, can be used to maximize converter efficiency (up to 95%), increase power density, and reduce output ripple voltage in high-current applications. The new DCR sensing technique also reduces switching jitter associated with low DCR resistance applications. The DCR temperature compensation function maintains constant and precise current limit thresholds over a wide temperature range.

The LTC3774 operates with external power trains, such as Power Blocks and DrMOS, as well as discrete N-channel MOSFETs and associated gate drivers, enabling flexible circuit designs. The LTC3774 operates over an input voltage range of 4.5V to 38V and generates a fixed output voltage ranging from 0.6V to 3.5V. Up to 12 phases can be arranged in parallel and clocked differently, minimizing input and output filtering to suit very high current requirements up to 360A. Applications include high-current power distribution, redundant (n+1) power supplies, industrial systems, DSPs, and ASIC power.

The LTC3774 provides a fixed operating frequency selectable in the range of 200 kHz to 1.2 MHz or can be synchronized with an external clock. The dual differential amplifier provides remote output voltage sensing for both output voltages. The product's adjustable current limiting function can be configured to very low sensing voltages in the range of 10mV to 30mV to minimize power loss. Furthermore, the LTC3774 can control soft start or tracking and maintains ±0.75% output voltage accuracy over an operating temperature range of -40°C to 125°C.

The LTC3774 is mounted in a 36-pin 5mm x 6mm QFN package and is available immediately. Prices start at $2.95 per unit for orders of 1,000. Further details are available at www.linear.com/product/LTC3774 .