Linear Releases Dual 3A, 4MHz, Synchronous Step-Down Regulator Supporting DDR Memory Power

December 20, 2013 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-kwak) announced the release of new high-reliability H-grade and military MP-grade versions (product names: LTC3615 and LTC3615-1). These products are high-efficiency 4 MHz synchronous buck regulators that incorporate a fixed-frequency, current-mode architecture. Through low-resistance internal switches, the LTC3615 can provide a continuous output current of up to 3 A from each channel, while low dropout operation provides output voltages in the VIN range of just under 0.6 V.
The LTC3615 operates at input voltages ranging from 2.25V to 5.5V and is ideal for single-cell lithium-ion applications as well as 3.3V and 5V intermediate bus systems. Switching frequencies are user-programmable within the 400kHz to 4MHz range, and small, low-cost capacitors and inductors can be used. The LTC3615 allows for selectable 0°/90°/180° phase shifts, while the LTC3615-1 allows for selectable 140°/180° inter-channel phase shifts. The high-speed switching performance combined with integration into a very small 4mm x 4mm QFN-24 package or a thermally enhanced TSSOP-24 package provides a highly integrated, compact solution footprint suitable for applications requiring dual outputs of up to 3A.
The LTC3615 achieves up to 94% efficiency using internal switches with wattages of only 55 mOhms and 75 mOhms. Burst mode operation reduces no-load standby current to just 130 µA, maximizing both light-load efficiency and operating time in battery-powered applications. Adjustable burst mode clamps allow designers to optimize light-load efficiency. For applications requiring the lowest possible noise, the LTC3615 can be configured to operate in pulse-skip or forced continuous mode, reducing noise and potential RF interference. A programmable switching slew rate further reduces potential noise issues. Selectable 0°, 90°, or 18° phase shifts between two channels minimize output voltage ripple as well as input current ripple. The LTC3615 provides a DDR memory mode as well as an input for tracking performance. In this mode, the device can source or sink ±1.5A. Additional features include selectable active voltage positioning (AVP), Power Good Monitor, external synchronization performance, and thermal protection.
Photo Caption: Dual 3A, 4MHz Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator















