Integrated input surge stopper and ideal diode controller

Linear Technology Corporation announces the introduction of a new multiphase synchronous boost DC/DC controller (product name: LTC3897) with integrated input surge stopper and ideal diode controller.

This boost controller drives two N-channel power MOSFETs 180 degrees out of phase with each channel, reducing input and output capacitor requirements and enabling the use of smaller inductors compared to comparable single-phase products.

▲ Multi-level Synchronous Boost Controller>

An input surge stopper with adjustable clamp voltage controls the gate of an N-channel MOSFET to protect against high input voltage transients greater than 100 V, and provides inrush current control, overcurrent protection, and output disconnect. An integrated ideal diode controller also drives another N-channel MOSFET for reverse input voltage protection, voltage holdup, or peak detection.

Low standby current minimizes power loss, current detection by monitoring inductor voltage drop

The LTC3897 is ideal for automotive, industrial and medical systems that require a step-up DC/DC converter to efficiently deliver high power in a small solution size. Its low quiescent current of 55µA in burst mode operation prolongs battery life and minimizes power loss at light loads.

The LTC3897 itself operates over an input range of 4.5V to 65V and a peak voltage of 75V. It can regulate output voltages as high as 60V, and the powerful onboard gate drivers, adjustable from 5V to 10V, can quickly drive large logic-level or standard threshold MOSFET gates.

This form factor has an adjustable cycle-by-cycle current limit protection feature, and the current can be sensed either by using a sense resistor or by monitoring the voltage drop across the inductor (DCR).

The LTC3897's boost controller, surge stopper, and ideal diode can each be shut down independently. Additionally, the LTC3897 features adjustable soft-start, a power good output, and maintains ±1% reference voltage accuracy over an operating junction temperature range of –40°C to 125°C.

The LTC3897 is available in TSSOP-38 and 5mm x 7mm QFN-38 packages. It is available in three temperature grades: –40°C to 125°C for the extended and industrial grades, and –40°C to 150°C for the high temperature automotive grade. Pricing starts at $5.50 each in 1,000-piece quantities.