March 16, 2012 – Linear Technology Korea (CEO Hong Sa-kwak) announced the development of a 5A step-down µModule® regulator with a 36V input featuring adjustable and precise (+/-10%) current limiting capabilities. By utilizing the current limiting function, designers can set the maximum power consumed by the supply, thereby preventing input voltage drops caused by overcurrent conditions. When multiple LTM8026s are configured with their outputs coupled, each converter can be programmed with its own maximum current limiting function to meet specific input supply limiting conditions for higher output power. This is also well known as a technique called asymmetric power sharing. In contrast, conventional regulator products share current by allocating the load equally to each input supply, which is limited by the weakest input rail. Applications for the LTM8026 include PoL regulation in 24V and 12V supply systems, such as VXI buses, for automotive, medical, and industrial markets.
Like other Linear Technology µModule regulators, the LTM8026 incorporates a DC/DC controller, power switch, power inductor, compensation, and small amounts of input/output capacitance in a surface-mount package. The current limiting function can be controlled by applying a voltage or resistance divider, and can be automatically lowered with rising junction or ambient temperature by using a thermistor to protect the LTM8026 from overheating or to prevent overload.
The LTM8026 operates on input voltages ranging from 6V to 36V and regulates output voltages in the range of 1.2V to 24V set by resistors. In a 12V input 3.3V output application, the LTM8026 achieves an operating efficiency of 89% at 2A. For noise-sensitive applications, the µModule regulator can be synchronized with an external clock frequency in the range of 100 kHz to 1 MHz. Other features include an externally adjustable soft start, an adjustable switching frequency, and a thermal shutdown function.
The LTM8026 is available in a thermally efficient 11.25mm x 15mm x 2.82mm LGA package. Two temperature classes, E and I, covering a temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, are available immediately. Pricing starts at $12.58 per unit for 1,000 units. For more information, please visit www.linear.com/product/LTM8026 .

Photo caption: 36VIN 5A step-down µModule® regulator with adjustable current limiting supporting asymmetric power sharing

Product Features: LTM8026

• Adjustable output current limiting function with ±10% accuracy
• Asymmetric power sharing (customizing input power consumption in parallel output configurations)
• Input voltage range: 6V ~ 36V
• Output voltage range: 1.2V ~ 24V
• Maximum output current of 5A
• 89% efficiency (12VIN ~ 3.3VOUT)
• Synchronization with external clock possible (100kHz – 1MHz)
• Adjustable FSW (100kHz – 1MHz)
• Ultra-compact 11.25mm × 15mm × 2.82mm LGA package with enhanced heat dissipation performance