February 22, 2012 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-kwak) announced the release of a 1.5A high-efficiency synchronous buck regulator (product name: LTC3600) that allows for easy parallel connection for high-current applications and can be controlled down to 0V with a single resistor. This new switching regulator architecture uses a 50µA current reference and is combined with a single resistor to set the output voltage. This unique design allows for easy current sharing among multiple regulators and enables setting the output voltage for all regulators with a single external resistor.
The LTC3600 delivers high performance without compromising any performance aspect. With a wide input voltage range of 4V to 15V, it is ideal for dual-cell lithium-ion applications and fixed 5V and 12V intermediate bus systems, while its synchronous rectification function provides a high efficiency of 96%. The LTC3600's new design allows for free adjustment of the output voltage from 0V to VIN-0.5V, providing virtually rail-to-rail performance. Additionally, a zero-output function allows the system to cut off power to individual rails when necessary. The accuracy of the on-chip trim reference is ±1%. Furthermore, output regulation and transient response are independent of the output voltage. Output voltage tracking or soft-start functions can be easily programmed via the ISET pin for applications requiring power sequencing. Based on its wide input and output voltage characteristics, tight line and load regulation, high efficiency, low external component count, and parallel capabilities, the LTC3600 is ideally suited for modern multi-rail systems.
The LTC3600 provides an ultra-small solution footprint for multi-rail applications by enabling the use of inexpensive ultra-small capacitors and inductors through features such as a 3mm x 3mm DFN or thermally enhanced MSOP-12 package and 200kHz to 4MHz switching capabilities. Additionally, it features a Power Good voltage monitor, external synchronization, and thermal protection.
The LTC3600EDD is available in a 3mm x 3mm DFN-12 package, while the LTC3600EMSE is available in a 12-pin thermally enhanced MSOP package. Both package options start at $2.80 per unit in 1,000-piece quantities. The industrial-grade versions, the LTC3600IDD and LTC3600IMSE, operate over a temperature range of 40°C to 125°C and are priced at $3.22 per unit in 1,000-piece quantities. All versions are available for immediate purchase. For more information, please visit www.linear.com/product/LTC3600 .

Photo caption: 16V, 1.5A monolithic synchronous step-down regulator providing output down to 0V

Product Features: LTC3600

• Single resistor programmable VOUT
• ISET accuracy of ± 1% within the specified temperature range
• Output regulation and transient response independent of output voltage
• Easily cascade multiple devices for high-current applications
• High efficiency: Up to 96%
• 1.5A output current
• Integrated power N-channel MOSFET (200mΩ upper and 100mΩ lower)
• Adjustable frequency: 200kHz ~ 4MHz
• Wide output voltage range: 0V ~ VIN – 0.5V
• Input voltage range: 4V ~ 16V VIN
• Current mode operation for excellent line and load transient response
• Supply current less than 1μA during shutdown
• Available in a thermally enhanced 12-pin 3mm x 3mm DFN/MSOP package