LTC News

40V, 2A Synchronous Buck-Boost DC/DC Converter Offered in High Temperature H Grade & High Reliability MP Grade

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 10:54:20 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – June 17, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the high temperature H-grade (-40°C to 150°C junction temperature) and high reliability MP-grade (-55°C to 150°C) version of the LTC3115-1 in a 20-lead thermally enhanced TSSOP package. The LTC3115-1 is a synchronous buck-boost converter that delivers up to 2A of continuous output current from a wide range of power sources from single-cell Li-Ion to 24V/28V industrial rails to 40V automotive inputs.

Ideal Diode Bridge Controller Minimizes Rectifier Heat & Voltage Loss

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 10:11:45 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – June 10, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LT4320, an ideal diode bridge controller for 9V to 72V systems that replaces each of the four diodes in a full-wave bridge rectifier with a low loss N-channel MOSFET to significantly reduce the power dissipation and increase available voltage. Power supply size is reduced as the enhanced power efficiency eliminates bulky heat sinks. Low voltage applications benefit from the extra margin afforded by saving the two diode drops inherent in diode bridges. Compared to the traditional alternative, the MOSFET bridge enables a rectifier design that is highly space- and power-efficient. The controller operates from DC to 600Hz.

45V 500mA LDO Offers 25µVRMS Noise, Programmable Current Limit & Diagnostic Information

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 10:17:17 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – June 3, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3055, a high voltage, low noise, low dropout voltage linear regulator offering precision, programmable current limit and diagnostic capability. The device delivers up to 500mA output current with a 350mV dropout voltage at full load. The LT3055 features a wide 2V to 45V input voltage range, delivering adjustable output voltages from 0.6V to 40V. A single capacitor at the REF/BYP pin provides programmable low noise operation--only 25µVRMS across a wide bandwidth of 10Hz to 100kHz, and also reference soft start functionality, preventing output voltage overshoot at turn-on. Output voltage tolerance is highly accurate at ±2% over line, load and temperature.

Breakthrough 0.5ppm INL, 1Msps, No Latency SAR ADC Achieves True 20-Bit Precision

Tue, 28 May 2013 14:35:30 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 28, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2378-20 , a 20-bit 1Msps no latency successive approximation register (SAR) analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with exceptionally low 0.5ppm (typ) and 2ppm (max) Integral Non-Linearity (INL) error. INL is a key specification in precision applications, such as seismic monitoring and semiconductor fabrication, indicating how much the ADC transfer function deviates from its ideal. Since linearity effectively cannot be calibrated at the system level, the ADC’s INL specification often sets the overall system accuracy. The best-in-class 0.5ppm INL of the LTC2378-20 enables a new generation of precision systems with true 20-bit accuracy. Proprietary architecture leads to an extremely stable 2ppm (max) INL and -114dB THD (max) over the device’s entire operating range of -40°C to 85°C.

100mA Synchronous Buck Converter Features 150V Input Capability & Just 12µA Quiescent Current

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:39:38 -0500

MILPITAS, CA –May 13, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC3639, a 150V input-capable synchronous buck converter that delivers up to 100mA of continuous output current. It operates from an input voltage range of 4.5V to 150V, eliminating the need for an external transient suspension device. The LTC3639 utilizes internal synchronous rectification and a programmable peak current-mode design to optimize efficiency over a broad range of output currents. It delivers efficiencies as high as 92% and requires only 12µA of quiescent current, maximizing battery run time and eliminating thermal issues. A user-programmable output current limit can set output current from 10mA to 100mA thereby minimizing the need to oversize external components and protecting high impedance sources. The LTC3639 can be programmed with fixed output voltages of 1.8V, 3.3V or 5V or a resistor divider can be used to program outputs from 0.8V to VIN. The LTC3639’s thermally enhanced MSOP package offers the additional pin spacing required for high voltage inputs. The combination of its MSOP package with only three tiny externals provides a highly compact solution footprint for a broad range of applications.

20A µModule Regulator with Guaranteed 1.5% Total VOUT Accuracy from -40°C to 125°C Is Housed in Low Profile LGA Package

Tue, 07 May 2013 11:07:31 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 7, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM4637, a 20A DC/DC step-down µModule® (micromodule) regulator with onboard precision differential remote sense amplifier. This enables automatic correction of voltage errors caused by droop across PCB traces, which is valuable for powering loads such as FPGAs requiring high currents at low voltages. Total output DC voltage accuracy is guaranteed at +/-1.5% from -40°C to 125°C. The LTM4637 includes the inductor, MOSFETs, DC/DC controller and compensation circuitry. It is housed in a low height (profile) 4.32mm LGA package with a 15mm x 15mm footprint. With a VIN range of 4.5V to 20V, the device’s operating efficiency is optimized for 5V and 12V input systems (88%, 12VIN, 1.8VOUT @ 20A). The output voltage can be set with one resistor from 0.6V to 5.5V. Four devices in parallel can deliver 80A of load current. Applications include industrial and medical equipment, and networking and telecom systems.

Low Noise, 1mV Output Ripple, 5A Step-Down µModule Regulator for Data Converters & High Speed Transceivers

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:38:15 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 30, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM8028, a 1mV output ripple µModule® (micromodule) regulator designed to power data converters and high speed transceivers. The low output ripple minimizes random jitter in high speed data transceivers for superior bit error rate (BER) performance. When powering an analog-to-digital converter (ADC), tests showed a 13dB improvement in spurious free dynamic range (SFDR) with the LTM8028 compared to a typical step-down regulator. The µModule regulator combines a 36V synchronous step-down switcher, powering a 5A linear post-regulator in a compact 15mm x 15mm x 4.92mm BGA package. To minimize power dissipation and voltage drop across the linear regulator, the linear regulator automatically adjusts the output voltage of the internal synchronous regulator.

Isolated 8-Port PoE PSE Controllers Eliminate Optos for Lowest Solution Cost

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:08:18 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 29, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4290/LTC4271 isolated 8-port power source equipment (PSE) controller chipset designed for use in IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) Type 1- and Type 2-compliant Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) systems. The LTC4290/4271 provides 8 independent PSE channels for simpler lower component count designs, reduced board space and ultimately reduced total solution costs. The LTC4271 provides a digital interface to the PSE host, whereas the LTC4290 provides the high voltage Ethernet interface; the two ICs are then bridged by an inexpensive Ethernet transformer. The transformer-isolated communication protocol replaces up to six expensive opto-couplers and a complex isolated 3.3V supply used in traditional designs, resulting in significant cost savings and a more robust and easy to manufacture design.

40VIN /60VOUT 5A Constant-Current, Constant-Voltage Converter with Internal PWM Generator

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 14:29:32 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 18, 2013 – The LT3954, a DC/DC converter designed to operate as a constant-current source and constant-voltage regulator with an internal 5A switch, is now available from Linear Technology. The device’s internal PWM dimming generator makes it ideal for driving high current LEDs, and it also has features suitable for charging batteries and supercapacitors. The LT3954’s 4.5V to 40V input voltage range suits a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting.

Cable Drop Compensator Corrects Remote Load Regulation Errors without Sense Wires

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:34:51 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 17, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT6110 cable drop compensator, a new device that improves voltage regulation at remote loads without the need for Kelvin sense wires. The LT6110, a new component for the designer, has been architected for use with most types of voltage regulators and can provide several volts of load regulation compensation.

I/Q Sampling Digital Predistortion Receiver Enables Acquisition of 300MHz Bandwidth in Base Station Applications

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:23:19 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 15, 2013 – Linear Technology introduces the LTM9013, a wideband RF-to-digital µModule® (micromodule) receiver that includes a high performance dual 14-bit, 310Msps analog-to-digital converter (ADC), a high IIP3 I/Q demodulator, two variable gain amplifiers, and 300MHz lowpass filters. The LTM9013’s quadrature sampling architecture enables acquisition of up to 300MHz of signal bandwidth with IMD3 performance of 66dB across the entire band. The receiver is targeted for wideband, low IF receivers and wireless base stations implementing power amplifier (PA) linearization with digital predistortion (DPD). The LTM9013 leverages years of applications design expertise to offer high integration, ease of use, with repeatable and guaranteed system performance to increase production yields and time to market.

17V, 2.25MHz, Synchronous Step-Down Regulator Delivers 1A & Requires Only 3.5µA of Quiescent Current

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 10:34:13 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 9, 2013 – The LTC3621 is a high efficiency, 17V input capable synchronous buck regulator from Linear Technology that delivers up to 1A of continuous output current to outputs as low as 0.6V. Synchronous rectification delivers efficiencies as high as 95% while Burst Mode® operation requires only 3.5µA of no load quiescent current. The LTC3621 switches at a fixed 1MHz frequency whereas the LTC3621-2 switches at 2.25MHz. Their constant frequency, current-mode architecture minimizes switching noise while offering very fast line and load transient response. The LTC3621/-2 operates from an input voltage range of 2.7V to 17V, making it ideal for single or dual cell Li-Ion applications as well as 12V intermediate bus and automotive systems. The combination of its 2mm x 3mm DFN or MSOP-8 package high switching frequency and tiny, low cost capacitors and inductors ensures a highly compact solution footprint.

Dual Output Sine Wave to Logic Converter Utilizes Selectable Input Filtering for Lowest Additive Jitter

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 10:12:01 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 8, 2013 – MILPITAS, CA – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC6957, a DC to 300MHz dual output buffer/driver/logic translator, ideal for converting sine waves into low phase noise logic level signals. Prior solutions were unable to perform this conversion without introducing a significant amount of jitter. The LTC6957 converts any DC to 300MHz reference frequency into dual LVPECL, LVDS or CMOS outputs with exceptionally low additive jitter of 45fsRMS (LVPECL) over the 12kHz to 20MHz integration bandwidth and less than 200fsRMS total jitter. The device also features a proprietary, selectable, input stage bandwidth-limiting feature, which substantially improves the additive phase noise for slow slewing signals by 4-7dB.

Phase Modulated Full-Bridge Controller Features -40°C to 150°C Operating Junction Temperature Range

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:40:18 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 3, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the H-grade version of the LTC3722-1, a phase-modulated full bridge DC/DC controller with adaptive or manual zero voltage switching (ZVS). The device’s ZVS delay control and adjustable synchronous rectification timing optimize efficiency while reducing transformer size and electromagnetic interference, making it well suited for isolated high power applications of up to several kilowatts.

FMEA Compliant, 45V LDO Features 3µA IQ

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:23:05 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 2, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3007, the latest member in a family of high voltage, micropower, robust PNP-based LDOs, featuring an ultralow 3µA quiescent current. The LT3007’s high input voltage capability, spanning 2.0V to 45V with an adjustable output voltage ranging from 0.6V to 44.5V, enables operation in a wide variety of application spaces. The LT3007’s pinout is FMEA (Failure Mode Effects Analysis) compliant - the output stays at or below the regulation voltage during an adjacent pin short event, or if a pin is left floating. The device’s 3µA quiescent and shutdown (<1µA) currents enable ultralow standby power consumption, making the IC an excellent choice for applications not needing shutdown, or those requiring moderate output drive capability and high input voltage, such as remote monitoring and low-current battery-powered memory for “keep alive” systems that require extended run times.

60V Input, Low IQ Inverting DC/DC Controller Simplifies Design by Using Only a Single Inductor

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 13:59:59 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 1, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3863, a high voltage inverting DC/DC controller that uses just a single inductor to produce a negative voltage from a positive input voltage. Most low to medium power inverters utilize a coupled inductor topology, or transformer which increases the circuit size and complexity. The LTC3863 simplifies the design further with all of its interface signals being positive ground referenced. None of the LTC3863 pins are connected to a negative voltage allowing the output voltage to be limited only by the selection of external components.

Tiny Low Frequency Clock Supports Long Duration Power-On Reset & Watchdog Timer Applications

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 10:17:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 26, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6995, a simple, accurate low frequency clock uniquely configurable for long duration power-on reset and watchdog timer applications. The LTC6995 is the latest part in the TimerBlox® family of versatile silicon timing devices, which combines an accurate programmable oscillator with precision circuitry and logic. An extremely wide resistor-settable frequency range provides a clock period from 1ms to 9.5 hours. Upon power-on or a reset signal, the LTC6995 will initiate a full output clock cycle. The reset capability and programmable period are specifically intended for long duration timing events.

250mA Wide VIN Range Buck-Boost Charge Pump Offers Low Conducted and Radiated Noise

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 11:17:07 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 19, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3245, a versatile 250mA high voltage buck-boost charge pump. The LTC3245 uses switched capacitor fractional conversion to maintain regulation over a wide range of input voltage from 2.7V to 38V and produces a regulated output of 3.3V, 5V or adjustable (2.5V to 5V). Internal circuitry automatically selects the conversion ratio (2:1, 1:1 or 1:2) to optimize efficiency as input voltage and load conditions vary. Low operating current (18μA with no load, 4μA in shutdown) and low external device count (three small ceramic capacitors and no inductors) make the LTC3245 ideally suited for low power, space constrained automotive/industrial applications such as automotive ECU/CAN transceiver supplies, industrial housekeeping supplies and efficient low power 12V to 5V conversion.

15V, 200mA Synchronous Buck-Boost DC/DC Converter with Only 1.3µA of Quiescent Current

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:57:18 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 18, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC3129, a synchronous buck-boost converter that delivers up to 200mA of continuous output current from a wide variety of input sources including single or multiple-cell batteries as well as solar panels and supercaps. Its 2.42V to 15V input range and 1.4V to 15.75V output range provide a regulated output with inputs above, below or equal to the output. The low noise buck-boost topology incorporated in the LTC3129 provides a continuous transition through all of the operating modes, making it ideal for applications that must maintain a constant output voltage, even as the input source voltage transitions through the output voltage. It also includes programmable maximum power point control (MPPC) capability, ensuring maximum power extraction from nonideal power sources such as photovoltaic cells.

Dual 750mA/250mA Linear LDO Regulator with Independent Inputs Offers Ultralow Noise

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:07:22 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 13, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3030, a dual low noise, low dropout regulator with independent inputs and independent shutdown control for each channel. The device delivers continuous output current up to 750mA on one channel and 250mA on the other channel, with a low dropout voltage of only 300mV at full load. The LT3030 features a wide 1.8V to 20V input voltage range, delivering output voltages as low as 1.215V and up to 19.5V. The device features ultralow 20µVRMS noise across a wide 10Hz to 100kHz bandwidth, a precision shutdown/UVLO threshold for each channel, tracking/sequencing capability and dual PWRGD flags to indicate output regulation per channel. The LT3030’s full feature set and low quiescent current of 115µA/70µA per regulator (operating) and <1µA each (in shutdown) make it ideal for battery-powered “keep alive” systems that require optimum run time, as well as microprocessor core logic supplies, tracking/sequencing supplies and general-purpose voltage conversion.

36VIN µModule Regulator with Configurable Array of Five Low Noise 1A Linear Regulators for Multirail Logic Devices

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:33:27 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 12, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM8001, a step-down µModule® (micromodule) regulator consisting of an array of five low noise 1A linear regulators. The linear regulators are also configurable to deliver 2A, 3A, 4A or 5A, depending on the number and combination of current shared outputs. Housed in a 15mm x 15mm x 3.42mm ball grid array (BGA) package, the LTM8001 provides high efficiency conversion from an input source, ranging from 6V to 36V, by powering the five low noise linear regulators from an onboard synchronous step-down converter. Each output voltage is adjustable from 0V to 24V. The LTM8001 is designed to supply multirail systems based on FPGAs, DSPs, ASICs and microprocessors.

Smallest 14-Bit, 4.5Msps SAR ADC Integrates Precision Reference in 8mm² TSOT-23 Package

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 10:34:57 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 11, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2314-14, a 14-bit 4.5Msps successive approximation register (SAR) ADC in a tiny 8-lead TSOT-23 package, offering up to 90% reduction in size over competing solutions for space-conscious applications. This small SAR ADC integrates a precision 2.048V/4.096V reference with 7ppm/°C typical and guaranteed 20ppm/°C maximum temperature coefficient into an 8mm² footprint. The LTC2314-14 operates from a 3V or 5V supply and features the lowest power dissipation (18mW at 3V or 31mW at 5V) compared to other competitive parts on the market. With its serial SPI interface, tiny footprint and very low power dissipation, the LTC2314-14 is ideal for a wide range of portable and space-constrained applications, including medical devices, communications systems and battery-operated systems.

High Efficiency Bidirectional Multicell Active Balancer Maximizes Capacity Recovery in Series-Connected Battery Stacks

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 10:21:05 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – March 5, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3300-1, a high efficiency bidirectional multicell battery balancer for equalizing cell state of charge (SoC) in a series-connected battery stack. With the LTC3300-1, applications such as electric vehicles (EVs), plug-in hybrid EVs and large energy storage systems using cells with mismatched capacities are no longer limited by the lowest capacity cell in the stack. The LTC3300-1 goes beyond purely dissipative passive balancing solutions, enhancing battery performance by efficiently transferring charge to or from adjacent cells in order to bring mismatched cells into SoC balance within the stack. By redistributing charge throughout the stack, the LTC3300-1 compensates for lost capacity due to the weakest cells, enabling faster charging and extending the run time and usable lifetime of the battery stack.

Precision 50µV Offset Op Amp Operates with 76V Input Range

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 10:15:09 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 14, 2013 – Linear Technology introduces the LT6016 and LT6017, dual and quad wide input range operational amplifiers. These amplifiers combine high precision with the ruggedness and versatility of LTC’s unique Over-the-Top® architecture. Input offset voltage is 50µV max, input bias current is 5nA, and low frequency noise is 0.5µVP-P making these devices suitable for a wide range of precision industrial, automotive, and instrumentation applications.

Tiny, Surface Mount, Hermetic Voltage References Offer Outstanding Stability

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:26:10 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 12, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LS8 reference family, a series of hermetic precision voltage references packaged in a 5mm x 5mm surface mount, low stress ceramic package. These precision voltage references offer outstanding long term stability and consistent predictable behavior, over time and operating conditions. For instrumentation that demands the best possible performance over years or decades of operation, the LS8 package offers an alternative to large metal can or ceramic DIP packages.

Convert Any Input Voltage from 2.8V to 80V into a Fixed Output Voltage or Output Current with Up to 98% Efficiency at 250W

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:11:12 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 11, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT8705, a very high efficiency (up to 98%) synchronous buck-boost DC/DC controller that operates from input voltages above, below or equal to the regulated output voltage. This device has four feedback loops to regulate the input current/voltage, along with the output current/voltage. The input current and voltage feedback loops can prevent overloading of solar cells. The output current loop provides a regulated output current for a battery charger or current source. The LT8705 can be used in a wide range of applications such as a voltage stabilizer in telecom and automotive requirements, as well as in solar or high impedance sources and battery systems.

28µA IQ Triple Output, Buck/Buck/Boost Synchronous DC/DC Controller Maintains Regulation in Automotive Start/Stop Systems

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 10:33:49 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 7, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3859AL, a triple output (buck, buck, boost), low quiescent current synchronous DC/DC controller that maintains all output voltages in regulation during automotive cold crank conditions. A 12V automotive battery can droop to less than 4 volts during engine restart or cold crank, causing reset of infotainment systems and other electronics that operate from 5 volts and higher. The high efficiency synchronous boost converter feeds the two step-down converters, avoiding output voltage dropout when the car battery droops, a useful feature in automotive start/stop systems that shut off the engine at idle to save fuel. Alternatively, the buck controllers can be powered from the input for a general purpose triple output controller.

Inverting, Boost or Buck-Boost µModule Converter Delivers up to 700mA with Only Four Small Passive Components

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 10:18:29 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 5, 2013 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM8045, a 2.8V-18V input, multi-topology DC/DC µModule® (micromodule) converter, with onboard inductor, power switch and DC/DC controller delivering up to 700mA output current. With the addition of only two resistors and two capacitors, the LTM8045 can be configured to regulate either a positive output voltage (SEPIC topology) between 2.5V and 15V or a negative output voltage (inverting topology) between -2.5V and -15V. The LTM8045 is designed for point-of-load regulation in communications, imaging and handheld test equipment.

140V Precision Op Amp Features 3pA Bias Current, 3.5µVP-P Noise for High Gain Applications

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 10:22:17 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 30, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6090, a precision operational amplifier that operates on a supply voltage up to 140V (or ±70V). Its combination of rail-to-rail output, 3pA (typical) input bias current, 1.6mV maximum input offset voltage and 3.5µVP-P low frequency noise delivers the precision required for high performance ATE, piezo driver, and DAC buffer applications. An enhanced slew rate of 19V/µs allows the output to swing 140V in less than 8µs. Gain bandwidth product is 10MHz.

Fully Differential IF 15dB RF/IF Amplifier Achieves 50dBm OIP3

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 10:17:40 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 28, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6430-15, a 15dB amplifier, which achieves high dynamic range in a 100Ohm differential environment from 20MHz to 1GHz and beyond. Two performance grades are available: at 240MHz, the A-grade OIP3 is typically 50dBm and is fully tested and guaranteed to be a minimum of 47dBm. Noise Figure is 3dB, which corresponds to an input-referred amplifier noise of 1nV/√Hz. DC power consumption is 800mW. This combination of low noise and low distortion provides wide dynamic range needed for high performance intermediate frequency communications and CATV applications.

40V, 1A Synchronous Buck Converter Can Step 36VIN Down to 3.3VOUT with a 2MHz Switching Frequency

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 10:39:49 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 7, 2013 – Linear Technology announces the LTC3646, a 40V input capable synchronous buck converter than can deliver up to 1A of continuous output current from a 3mm x 4mm DFN-14 (or thermally enhanced MSOP16) package. It operates from an input voltage range of 4V to 40V, making it ideal for automotive and industrial applications that require high voltage input capability, high efficiency and fast switching frequencies for small solution footprints. The LTC3646 utilizes a unique controlled on-time architecture that can step inputs as high as 36V down to 3.3V with switching frequencies in excess of 2MHz, keeping switching noise out of critical frequency bands, such as AM radio. Furthermore, it can deliver very fast transient response even with duty cycles less than 10%. Its internal synchronous rectification delivers efficiencies as high as 95% and requires only 140µA of quiescent current, maximizing battery run time. The combination of its 3mm x 4mm DFN package (or MSOP-16E) and tiny externals, offers a very compact solution footprint for a wide array of high voltage applications.

New Book Demystifies Black Art of Analog Design

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 10:38:36 -0600

WALTHAM, MA – December 18, 2012 – Newnes Press, an imprint of Elsevier, today announced the release of Analog Circuit Design, Volume 2, Immersion in the Black Art of Analog Design by Bob Dobkin and Jim Williams. A companion volume to Analog Circuit Design: A Tutorial Guide to Applications and Solutions, this edition includes new application notes on power management, data conversion and signal conditioning circuit solutions, and an extensive circuit collection of reference designs. The content is based on the research and writing of analog design experts Bob Dobkin and the late Jim Williams, as well as industry experts Carl Nelson and Bob Widlar.

PowerPath Prioritizer Eases Power System Design with Multiple, Disparate Input Sources & Protects Against Reversed Inputs

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:20:28 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – December 10, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4417, a triple-supply prioritized PowerPath™ controller for 2.5V to 36V systems. The controller selects the highest priority valid supply among three inputs to power the load. Priority is defined by pin assignment, while a supply is considered valid after it has been inside a voltage window set by 1.5% accurate undervoltage and overvoltage thresholds for 256ms. The LTC4417 greatly simplifies designs, deriving power from multiple, disparate voltage sources common in handheld and high availability electronics. In such systems, a prioritizer is a better solution than a simple diode-OR, especially when the preferred power source is not the highest voltage. The LTC4417 controller also protects the load from reversed inputs to −42V.

60V, LED Controller with Internal PWM Generator for Boost, Buck or Buck-Boost High Current LED Applications

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 10:22:43 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – December 3, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LT3761, a 60V DC/DC controller designed to operate as a constant-current source and constant-voltage regulator. Its internal PWM dimming generator makes it ideal for driving high current LEDs, but it also has features making it suitable for charging batteries and supercapacitors. The LT3761’s 4.5V to 60V input voltage range makes it ideal for a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting. The LT3761 uses an external N-channel MOSFET and can drive up to fifteen 1A white LEDs from a nominal 12V input, delivering in excess of 50 watts. It incorporates a high-side current sense, enabling its use in boost mode, buck mode, buck-boost mode or SEPIC topologies. The LT3761 can deliver efficiencies of over 94% in the boost topology, eliminating the need for external heat sinking. A frequency adjust pin permits the user to program the frequency between 100kHz and 1MHz, optimizing efficiency while minimizing external component size and cost. Combined with a thermally enhanced MSOP-16 package, the LT3761 offers a very compact high power LED driver solution.

Eight-Channel Configurable 1A Buck DC/DCs for Multi-Rail Systems

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 11:38:55 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – November 19, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3375, a highly-integrated general-purpose power management solution for systems requiring multiple low voltage power supplies. The device features eight independent 1A channels with I²C control, flexible sequencing and fault monitoring in a compact QFN package. Each channel is a high efficiency synchronous step-down regulator with its own independent 2.25V to 5.5V input supply and an output voltage range of 0.425V to VIN. In addition, the LTC3375’s buck DC/DCs may be connected in parallel to achieve higher output currents up to 4A per output with a single shared inductor. Up to four adjacent regulators can be combined, resulting in 15 different possible output configurations. All of the switching regulators are internally compensated and need only external feedback resistors to set the default output voltage.

60V Input Step-Down DC/DC Controller Draws Only 40µA in Battery-Powered Systems

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 10:29:12 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – November 8, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3864, a high voltage
step-down DC/DC controller that draws only 40µA quiescent current in standby mode with the output enabled in Burst Mode® operation. The 3.5V to 60V input supply range is designed to protect against high voltage transients, to operate continuously during automotive cold crank and covers a broad range of input sources and battery chemistries. The output voltage can be set from 0.8V to VIN due to its 100% duty cycle capability, making it well suited for 12V or 24V automotive, heavy equipment, industrial control, robotics and telecom applications.

Rail-to-Rail 80V Power Monitor Measures Current & Voltage with +/-0.75% Accuracy

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 10:12:35 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – November 7, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2945, a wide range I²C system monitor that monitors the current, voltage and power of any 0V to 80V rail. In many cases, prior power monitoring solutions are limited to 3V to 5V supplies and monitor voltages less than 36V, requiring additional circuitry to monitor higher voltages. The LTC2945 has flexible power supply options, deriving power from a 4V to 80V monitored supply, a 2.7V to 80V secondary supply, or from the onboard shunt regulator. These supply options eliminate the need for a separate buck regulator, shunt regulator or inefficient resistive divider while monitoring any 0V to 80V rail. The LTC2945 is a simple, single-IC solution that uses an internal Delta Sigma ADC and multiplier to provide 12-bit current and voltage measurements and 24-bit power readings.

Dual Hot Swap Controller with Flexible Current Limit Rides Through Load Surges without System Interruption

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 10:21:31 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – November 6, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4226, a dual Hot Swap™ controller, enabling safe board insertion into live 4.5V to 44V backplanes. The LTC4226 controls external N-channel MOSFETs to gently power up the board, avoiding sparks, connector damage and system glitches. Each supply is equipped with an electronic circuit breaker, and a higher current limit with three selectable levels. Picking the appropriate level allows the board to ride through noisy or brief load surges above the circuit breaker threshold without engaging the current limit and disturbing the output. A dual rate fault timer protects the MOSFET and system from long or damaging overcurrents. The LTC4226 offers a compact and rugged solution for hot plugging two supplies, either when they are well regulated (5V, 12V, 24V) or vary widely, as in battery-powered systems.

Guaranteed 0.04% Accurate Hybrid/Electric Battery Monitor Includes Isolated Interface

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:55:11 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 31, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC®6804 high voltage battery monitor for hybrid electric and electric vehicles, and other high voltage, stacked-battery systems. An LTC6804 can measure up to 12 series connected battery cells at voltages up to 4.2V with 16 bit resolution and better than 0.04% accuracy. This high precision is maintained over time, temperature and operating conditions by a sub-surface Zener voltage reference similar to references used in precision instrumentation. When stacked in series, the LTC6804 enables the measurement of every battery cell voltage in large high voltage systems. Six operating modes are available to optimize update rate, resolution and the low pass response of the built-in 3rd order noise filter. In the fastest mode, all cells can be measured within 290µsec.

60V, Synchronous Buck LED Driver Delivers Over 300W of LED Power

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:14:48 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 23, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LT3763, a synchronous buck LED driver controller that delivers over 300W of LED power. Its 6V to 60V input voltage range makes it ideal for a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting. Similarly, its output voltage can be set from 0V to 55V, enabling it to drive a wide range of LEDs in a single string. The LT3763 offers both input and output current monitors and limiting, which accurately control both input and output current. Similarly, the LT3763 also offers accurate output voltage regulation as well as input regulation, useful for high impedance sources such as solar panels. Its constant current and constant voltage regulation makes it ideal for applications ranging from driving high brightness LEDs to battery and supercap charging. Additionally, True Color PWM™ dimming capability offers dimming ranges as wide as 3,000:1 for LED applications. The LT3763 is unique design utilizes four control loops to monitor input current, LED /output current, output and input voltage to deliver optimum performance and reliability.

Lowest Noise, 16-Bit 20Msps ADCs Achieve 84dB SNR & 46 Microvolt (RMS) Input-Referred Noise

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:53:51 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 22 , 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces three low power 16-bit, 20Msps analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), the LTC2269, LTC2270 and LTC2271, offering the lowest input-referred noise and tight integral nonlinearity error (INL) for very high precision DC measurements. With only 46µVRMS input noise and maximum guaranteed INL error of ±2.3LSB, these ADCs are suitable for very low noise, high linearity sampling applications such as digital x-ray, infrared and medical imaging, pachymeters, spectrometry and cytometry. These devices achieve signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) performance of 84dB and SFDR of 99dB at baseband. High AC performance and low noise is achieved using a well designed 2.1Vp-p front end, which also significantly lowers the power required by the ADC driver circuitry. The ADCs themselves consume approximately 80mW/channel. Further power savings can be achieved by placing the devices in standby (12mW) or shutdown (0.5mW), making them ideal for handheld test and measurement applications.

2.5A, 15V Synchronous Boost Regulator Offers 95% Efficiency, 3MHz Switching & Output Disconnect in a 3mm x 4mm DFN

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 11:32:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 18, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3122, a 3MHz current-mode, synchronous boost DC/DC converter with integrated output disconnect. Its internal 2.5A switches deliver output voltages as high as 15V from an input voltage range of 1.8V at start-up (0.5V when running) to 5.5V, making it ideal for battery or standard 3.3V and 5V power sources. The LTC3122 can deliver up to 800mA of continuous output current at 12V from a 5V input. Pin-selected Burst Mode® operation lowers quiescent current to only 25µA, providing extended battery run time in handheld applications. The combination of its thermally enhanced 3mm x 4mm DFN-12 (or MSOP-12) package and a constant switching frequency of up to 3MHz enables the designer to balance PCB solution size with required efficiency.

38V, 10A Rugged Step-Down µModule Regulator with Fail Safe Load Protection

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 14:46:53 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 17, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM4641, a 4.5V to 38V input, 0.6V to 6V output, 10A step-down µModule® regulator with comprehensive electrical and thermal protection for loads such as processors, ASICs and high-end FPGAs. The LTM4641 µModule regulator monitors input voltage, output voltage and temperature conditions. If any user-adjustable trip thresholds are exceeded, the LTM4641 responds quickly within 500ns in the case of an output overvoltage fault, ceasing operation, and if necessary, activating external switches. One switch disconnects the input supply rail while the other discharges the output capacitors to protect the load. Additionally, when any trip threshold is exceeded, the LTM4641 will issue a logic level fault signal which may be used to initiate an orderly emergency shutdown sequence in the system. The adjustable trip thresholds are accurate to within ±2.7% over the full operating temperature range. As a µModule regulator, the LTM4641 includes power MOSFETs, DC/DC controller, inductor, compensation and the protection logic circuits in a compact surface mount BGA package. The LTM4641 is designed for point-of-load regulation in robotics and industrial instrumentation, as well as rugged environments such as defense and avionics systems.

WirelessHART & Internet Protocol Wireless Sensor Networks Achieve Industry’s Lowest Power Consumption at Less Than 50µA per Node

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 10:25:59 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – October 16, 2012 – Linear Technology’s Dust Networks® product group introduces the SmartMesh™ LTC5800 (system-on-chip) and LTP5900 (module) families, the industry’s lowest power IEEE 802.15.4E compliant wireless sensor networking products. SmartMesh ICs and modules enable tiny sensor “motes” to be designed with a battery life of over 10 years, while companion network manager components enable the development of highly robust and secure wireless sensor networks (WSN).

50Ohm IF Gain Block Provides 47dBm OIP3, 15.5dB Gain Consumes only 450mW

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 10:21:22 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – September 18, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6431-15, a 15.5dB gain block that achieves high dynamic range in a 50Ohm environment from 20MHz to 1GHz and beyond. It is manufactured on an advanced SiGe process and is available in two performance grades. At 240MHz, the A-grade OIP3 is typically 47dBm and is fully tested and guaranteed to be a minimum of 44dBm. Noise Figure is 3.33 dB, which corresponds to an input-referred amplifier noise of 1nV/√Hz. Power consumption is less than 450mW. This combination of low noise and low distortion provides the wide dynamic range needed for high performance intermediate frequency communications and CATV applications.

SPI/Digital or I²C µModule Isolator Provides Three Isolated Power Rails

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 10:10:05 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – September 17, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM2883, a 6-channel SPI/Digital or I²C digital µModule® isolator with triple rail regulated power for 3.3V and 5V systems. In industrial systems applications, ground potentials can vary widely, often exceeding the tolerable range, which can interrupt communications or even destroy components. The LTM2883 breaks ground loops by electrically separating communications signals, isolating the logic level interface on each side of an internal inductive isolation barrier that withstands a very large common-mode voltage range up to 2,500VRMS. The LTM2883’s low EMI isolated DC-DC converter powers the communications interface and provides adjustable 5V, +12.5V, and -12.5V supply outputs, ideal for powering data converters in data acquisition systems. With 2,500VRMS of galvanic isolation, onboard secondary power and a communications interface operating at up to 20Mbps, the LTM2883 requires no external components and provides a simple µModule solution for isolated data communications.

Dual 13A or Single 26A DC/DC µModule Step-Down Regulator with Integrated Heat Sink Delivers up to 100A

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 10:15:58 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – September 10, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM4620, a dual 13A per output or single 26A output DC/DC µModule® (pronounced micromodule) step-down regulator that delivers up to 100A when four devices are current shared. The LTM4620 is a complete DC/DC regulator system in a 15mm x 15mm x 4.41mm LGA package, including inductors, power stages and all control circuits. For optimum heat dissipation, a patented top side heat sink removes heat quickly and evenly. With 200LFM air flow, 12VIN to 1.0VOUT and at full load of 26A (or 13A per output), the LTM4620 internal temperature rises only 60°C above ambient. With the addition of an external heat sink to the top of the package and 200LFM air flow, the temperature rise is only 40°C. See our TechClip video at http://video.linear.com/p4634 for a performance demonstration.

High Voltage, Micropower Isolated Monolithic Flyback Regulator in ThinSOT Simplifies Design

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 10:38:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 28, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT8300, a low quiescent current monolithic flyback regulator that significantly simplifies the design of an isolated DC/DC converter. No optocoupler, third winding or signal transformer are required for feedback since the output voltage is sensed from the primary-side flyback signal. The LT8300 operates over a 6V to 100V input voltage range, has a 260mA, 150V power switch and delivers up to 2 watts of output power, ideal for a wide variety of telecom, datacom, automotive, industrial and medical applications.

High Efficiency PoE++ PD Controllers Provide up to 90W Delivered Power

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 13:26:59 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 27, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LT4275, LTPoE++™, PoE+ and PoE-compliant powered device (PD) interface controllers for applications requiring up to 90W of delivered power. PoE+ limits the maximum PD power delivery to 25.5W, which is insufficient to power today’s new class of power-hungry applications, such as picocells, base stations, signage and heated outdoor cameras. Linear Technology’s LTPoE++ standard addresses this market by expanding the power budget to four different power levels (38.7W, 52.7W, 70W and 90W), enabling complete high power LTPoE++ systems. The LTPoE++ standard employs a classification scheme that simply enables LTPoE++ power sourcing equipment (PSE) controllers and LTPoE++ PD controllers to reliably communicate with one another while maintaining interoperability with IEEE standard equipment. The LT4275A (LTPoE++), LT4275B (PoE+) and LT4275C (PoE) efficiently deliver power to PD loads using just one IC.

Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Controller with I²C/PMBus Digital Power System Management & Onboard EEPROM

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 10:17:36 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 23, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3883/-1, a synchronous step-down DC/DC controller with an I²C-based PMBus interface for digital power system management. This device combines best-in-class current-mode switching regulator performance with precision mixed signal data acquisition for unsurpassed ease of power system design and management. It is supported by the LTpowerPlay™ software development system via an easy-to-use graphical user interface (GUI).

45V, 2.3A LED Driver for Boost, Buck or Buck-Boost High Current LED Applications Offers Maximum Junction Temperature of 150°C & QFN Package

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 10:30:45 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 22, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the H-grade version of the LT3518. The LT3518 is a 45V, high-side current sense DC/DC converter designed to drive high current LEDs at constant current. Its 3V to 30V input voltage range with transient protection to 40V makes the LT3518 ideal for a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting.

Linear Technology Devices Power Mars Curiosity Rover

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 11:17:41 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 15, 2012 - Linear Technology Corporation (Nasdaq: LLTC), a leading supplier of high performance analog integrated circuits, announced today that its products are playing a key role in the Mars rover launched by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Linear Technology’s high performance analog semiconductors are used in the Mars Science Laboratory (Curiosity) rover to enable collection of vast amounts of data, including detailed visual images of the Martian landscape and precise readings to assist scientists in assessing the geology and history of Mars. NASA stated that the goal of the mission is to help determine whether Mars ever had conditions favorable for supporting life and whether life could have existed on the red planet.

Low Noise (1.5nV/√Hz) Fully Differential 1.6GHz Buffer Drives 50Ohm Load

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 10:07:27 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 15, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6417, a fully differential buffer amplifier with only 1.5nV/√Hz output-referred noise. The LTC6417 is capable of driving a differential 50Ohm load and is optimized for driving 14- and 16-bit pipeline ADCs. It can be DC- or AC-coupled at its inputs, and achieves excellent distortion performance for signals up to and beyond 600MHz. At 140MHz, OIP3 is 46dBm, and HD3 is -69dBc with 2.4 VP-P output swing into a 50Ohm load.

High Accuracy Temperature Monitor Provides Adjustable Alerts

Mon, 06 Aug 2012 10:13:46 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 6, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2996 high accuracy temperature sensor for 2.25V to 5.5V systems. The LTC2996 measures a remote diode’s temperature with ±1°C accuracy and its own die temperature with ±2°C accuracy while rejecting errors due to noise and series resistance. The device provides a voltage-proportional-to-absolute-temperature (VPTAT) output, as well as individual undertemperature and overtemperature alert outputs, defined by user-adjustable thresholds. No code is required to configure the device. With a 200µA quiescent current, the LTC2996 simply provides a precise, space-saving, micropower temperature monitoring solution.

60V Battery Charging Controller & Power Manager Features Input Maximum Power Point Control

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 10:32:10 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – August 2, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4000-1, a high voltage controller and power manager with input maximum power point control (MPPC) that converts virtually any externally compensated DC/DC power supply into a full-featured battery charger. The LTC4000-1 is capable of driving typical DC/DC converter topologies, including buck, boost, buck-boost, SEPIC, flyback and forward. The device offers precision input current monitoring and charge current monitoring and regulation. It operates across a wide 3V to 60V input and output voltage range, compatible with a variety of different input voltage sources, battery stacks and chemistries. The LTC4000-1’s MPPC circuit features an input voltage regulation loop that controls charge current to maintain the input voltage at a programmed level, ideal for solar panels or other high impedance sources. Applications include: high power battery charger systems, high performance portable instruments, battery backup systems, and industrial or military battery-equipped devices.

Low VIN Capable 5A DC/DC Converter Generates Positive or Negative Regulated Voltage

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 10:39:04 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – July 31, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3959, a highly versatile DC/DC converter for boost, SEPIC and inverting power supply applications. This device operates over an input voltage range of 2.5V to 40V, has an onboard 6A/40V power switch and achieves efficiencies up to 96%, making it well suited for industrial, automotive, medical and telecom applications.

Surge Stopper Integrates Ideal Diode for Comprehensive Protection Against Transient Voltages, Currents & Reverse Inputs & Outputs

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 10:06:59 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – July 23, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4364, a surge stopper with ideal diode, providing compact and low-loss protection for 4V to 80V electronics in automotive, avionics and industrial systems. The surge stopper shields downstream electronics from input overvoltages and overcurrent, enabling continuous operation through transient surges. Overcurrent limiting protects the system and supply from short-circuits at the load. Unique to the LTC4364 is ideal diode control, which replaces a Schottky diode in the power path with a low loss N-channel MOSFET. The ideal diode, along with a robust front-end, protects the load from a reversed input down to -40V and maintains the output voltage during an input brownout.

20V, 2.5A (IOUT) Synchronous Step-Down Regulator Features Input & Output Current Limiting & Current Monitoring

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 10:06:49 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – July 19, 2012 – The LTC3626 is a high efficiency, 3MHz synchronous buck regulator that offers both input and output current limiting and monitoring. It incorporates a unique constant frequency/controlled on-time, current-mode architecture that delivers up to 2.5A of continuous output current at output voltages as low as 0.6V from a 3mm x 4mm QFN package. Its current-mode operation offers excellent line and load transient response even with high step-down ratios. The LTC3626 operates from an input voltage range of 3.6V to 20V, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including dual/multiple-cell Li-Ion battery stacks and 5V to 18V intermediate bus systems. Its average input current and output current limiting are pin-programmable, making it well suited for applications such as USB power. The LTC3626’s switching frequency is user programmable and synchronizable from 500kHz to 3MHz, enabling the use of tiny, low cost capacitors and inductors.

42V, 2.5A (IOUT) & 5A (IOUT), 2MHz Step-Down DC/DC Converters Need Only 2.7µA of Quiescent Current

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 10:51:18 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – July 18, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3975, a 42V step-down switching regulator that can deliver 2.5A of continuous output current and requires only 2.7µA of quiescent current. Similarly, the LT3976 can operate from a 40V input, delivers up to 5A of output current and requires only 3.3µA of quiescent current. Both devices offer a 4.2V to a nominal 40V input voltage range, making them ideal for automotive and industrial applications. Their internal high 75mOhm switches deliver efficiencies as high as 90%. The LT3975’s and LT3976’s Burst Mode® operation offers ultralow quiescent current, a feature that is also well suited for automotive and industrial systems applications that demand always-on operation and optimum battery life. The devices’ unique design maintains a minimum dropout voltage of only 500mV when the input voltage drops below the programmed output voltage, a functional necessity in applications subject to automotive cold-crank conditions. Switching frequency is user-programmable from 200kHz to 2MHz, and synchronizable from 250kHz to 2MHz, enabling the designer to optimize efficiency while avoiding critical noise-sensitive frequency bands. The combination of their 16-lead thermally enhanced MSOP package and high switching frequency keeps external inductors and capacitors small, providing a compact, thermally efficient footprint.

40VIN, Quad 1A (IOUT) Step-Down Switching Regulator with 100% Duty Cycle Operation

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 12:24:43 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – July 9, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3504, a quad 1A output, 40V
step-down switching regulator with 100% duty cycle operation. The LT3504’s 3.2V to 40V input voltage range makes it ideal for automotive and industrial applications that require multiple outputs. Its internal 1.5A switches can deliver up to 1A of continuous output current per channel to voltages as low as 0.8V. The LT3504’s unique design includes an onboard boost regulator, enabling each channel to operate at 100% duty cycle, even with input voltage as low as 3.2V. This architecture makes the LT3504 well suited for applications requiring continuous output regulation, such as automotive cold-crank and stop-start scenarios. Switching frequency is user-programmable from 250kHz to 2.2MHz and synchronizable throughout the range, enabling the designer to optimize efficiency while avoiding critical noise-sensitive frequency bands. The combination of its 28-lead 4mm x 5mm QFN and high switching frequency keeps external inductors and capacitors small, providing a compact, thermally efficient footprint for multiple output applications.

Dual Ideal Diode Controller Replaces Two Schottky Diodes to Provide Efficient Power Supply ORing & Supply Holdup in High Power Applications

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 10:10:20 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – June 14, 2012 – Linear Technology introduces the LTC4353, a 0V to 18V dual ideal diode controller that replaces two high power Schottky diodes, enabling low loss ORing of multiple power sources with minimal disturbance to supply voltages. The LTC4353 regulates the forward voltage drop across external N-channel MOSFETs to ensure smooth current transfer between supplies in diode-OR applications. In low voltage systems, a slow handoff between controllers results in a voltage droop during supply switchover. The fast <1µs turn-on time of the LTC4353 ensures smooth switchover from one path to the other without oscillation. In the event the input supply fails or is shorted, a fast turn-off minimizes reverse current. In addition to redundant power supply ORing, the LTC4353 makes an excellent diode replacement in supply holdup applications where momentary collapse of supply voltage is isolated from the load.

Novel Current-Sharing, Diode-OR Controller Eases Design of Reliable Power Systems

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 17:03:43 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – June 4, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4370, a first-of-its-kind current-sharing controller with reverse current blocking. The LTC4370 frees the designer from the limitations and complications of existing current-sharing methods to obtain a simpler, quicker, and space-saving solution for sharing between two supplies. Its supply-agnostic feature lends the design more flexibility and a longer lifetime. By incorporating diode behavior, the controller prevents one supply failure from bringing down the entire system.

Wide Operating Range Ideal Diode Controller Provides Negative Input Protection & Low Current Operation

Thu, 31 May 2012 10:11:08 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 31, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4359 high voltage ideal diode controller that offers a simple low loss replacement to Schottky diodes, along with key features targeted for automotive, avionics as well as solar applications. The LTC4359 operates over a wide 4V to 80V supply range and withstands input voltages between -40V to 100V without damage. Operating current is a low 150µA, and a shutdown control input enables the LTC4359 to be in a low current shutdown mode, drawing just 13µA. In addition, the LTC4359 is guaranteed for operation across the -40°C to 125°C ambient temperature range. These features enable the LTC4359 to protect loads in harsh automotive environments such as during load dump, cold crank, two-battery jumps, and reverse battery connections. When combined with the LT4363 high voltage Surge Stopper, the LTC4359 provides solid front-end protection from overvoltage, overcurrent and reverse battery. Solar systems also benefit from the low operating current of this device, where the LTC4359 can be used to provide a low loss path that isolates the solar panel from the load.

65V, 500mA Synchronous Buck Converter Delivers 90% Efficiency & Requires Only 12µA Quiescent Current

Wed, 30 May 2012 11:34:23 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 30, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC3630, a 65V input-capable synchronous buck converter, which delivers up to 500mA of continuous output current from a 16-lead thermally enhanced 3mm x 5mm DFN or MSOP package. Its internal synchronous rectification topology delivers efficiencies as high as 90% and its Burst Mode® operation requires only 12µA of quiescent current (at no load), maximizing battery run time. The LTC3630 operates from an input voltage range of 4V to 65V, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including automotive, industrial, medical and avionics.

42V, 2.5A(IOUT), 2.2MHz Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Converter Delivers 96% Efficiency, Consumes Only 2.5µA of Quiescent Current

Mon, 21 May 2012 11:10:19 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 21, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT8610, a 2.5A, 42V input capable synchronous step-down switching regulator. Synchronous rectification delivers efficiency as high as 96% while Burst Mode® operation keeps quiescent current under 2.5µA in no-load standby conditions. The LT8610’s 3.4V to 42V input voltage range makes it ideal for automotive and industrial applications. Its internal 3.5A switches can deliver up to 2.5A of continuous output current to voltages as low as 0.97V. The LT8610’s Burst Mode operation offers ultralow quiescent current, making it well suited for applications such as automotive “always-on” systems, which need to extend operating battery life.

30MHz to 1.4GHz Wideband I/Q Demodulator with IIP2 Optimization & DC Offset Cancellation Improves Zero-IF Receiver Performance

Mon, 14 May 2012 11:32:18 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 14, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC5584, an ultrawide bandwidth direct conversion I/Q demodulator with outstanding linearity of 31dBm IIP3 and 70dBm IIP2. The device offers best-in-class demodulation bandwidth of over 530MHz, supporting the latest generation of LTE multimode, LTE Advanced receivers, as well as digital predistortion (DPD) receivers. The I/Q demodulator operates over a wide frequency range from 30MHz to 1.4GHz, covering a broad range of VHF and UHF radios and the 450MHz/700MHz LTE frequency bands. Unique to the LTC5584 are two built-in calibration features. One is advanced circuitry that enables the system designer to optimize the receiver’s IIP2 performance, increasing from a nominal 70dBm to an unprecedented 80dBm or higher. The other is on-chip circuitry to null out the DC offset voltages at the I and Q outputs. Combined with a 9.9dB noise figure, these features enhance the dynamic range performance in receivers. Moreover, the device exacts P1dB of 12.6dBm, along with its 13.6dB noise figure under a 0dBm in-band blocker, ensuring robust receiver performance in the presence of interference.

Broadband RF Mixer Achieves 26.9dBm IIP3 With Just 294mW Power Consumption

Thu, 10 May 2012 10:36:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 10, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC5567, a 300MHz to 4GHz downconverting mixer with outstanding IIP3 (Input Third Order Intercept) of 26.9dBm, low power consumption of 294mW, and wide IF bandwidth of 2.5GHz to support 4G wireless base stations and a wide range of high dynamic range receiver applications. The LTC5567’s wide 300MHz to 4GHz operating frequency range provides versatility in a single device, enabling operation in any of the cellular bands from 700MHz to 2.7GHz. The mixer features a conversion gain of 1.9dB and a noise figure of 11.8dB, providing excellent dynamic range for a wide variety of receiver applications. Additionally, the LTC5567’s IF output has a wide frequency range of 5MHz to 2500MHz, supporting wideband applications such as cable TV downlink transmitters and digital predistortion (DPD) receivers. Moreover, the LTC5567’s RF input is designed to withstand strong in-band blocking signals, while delivering a best-in-class noise figure of 16.5dB with a +5dBm blocker, ensuring enhanced receiver sensitivity in the presence of interference.

High Voltage Inverting Charge Pumps Offer Low Input & Output Ripple

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:22:16 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 9, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3260 and LTC3261 versatile high voltage charge pumps. The LTC3261 is a high voltage inverting charge pump that can deliver up to 100mA of output current. The LTC3260 has the same charge pump as the LTC3261, but also includes both positive and negative LDO regulators that can source up to 50mA output current each. The negative LDO post regulator is powered from the inverting charge pump output. The positive and negative LDO output voltages can be adjusted down to 1.2V and -1.2V, respectively using external resistor dividers. Both devices operate over a wide 4.5V to 32V input voltage range.

36VIN, 600mA µModule Step-Down Regulator in 6.25mm x 11.25mm BGA Consumes only 5µA Quiescent Current

Tue, 08 May 2012 13:11:34 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 8, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTM8029, a 5µA quiescent current DC/DC step-down µModule® regulator with very low dropout voltage and a wide input and output voltage range of operation. Capable of delivering up to 600mA, the LTM8029 prolongs battery run time one to two key features: (1) 5µA quiescent current consumption during standby mode and only 0.9µA in shutdown discharges very little current from the battery, (2) very low 0.6V dropout (at 600mA) conversion permits longer operating time as the battery’s operating voltage drops to a value close to the output voltage. Moreover, wide range of operating voltage of 4.5V to 36V (40Vmax) input and 1.2V to 18V output, enable the LTM8029’s use in such applications as avionics, heavy industrial equipment, battery stack energy storage and factory automation and robotics.

High Accuracy Temperature & Dual Voltage Monitor Provides Flexible Alert Outputs

Mon, 07 May 2012 14:55:58 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 7, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2995 high accuracy temperature sensor and dual supply monitor for low voltage systems. The LTC2995 measures a remote diode’s temperature with ±1°C accuracy and its own die temperature with ±2°C accuracy, while rejecting errors due to noise and series resistance. Two voltage rails, one of which is required to be between 2.25V and 5.5V to power the device, are monitored with ±1.5% accuracy, minimizing the required system supply margins. The LTC2995 provides a voltage-proportional-to-absolute-temperature (VPTAT) output, as well as individual undertemperature, overtemperature, undervoltage and overvoltage alert outputs defined by user-adjustable thresholds. No code is required to configure the device. The LTC2995 combines the functionality of a temperature monitor and dual voltage monitor in a space-saving, micropower solution.

Fully Differential Amplifier Drives 18-bit ADCs & Consumes only 5mW

Wed, 02 May 2012 10:27:13 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – May 2, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC6362, a low power fully differential amplifier that can drive high precision 16- and 18-bit SAR ADCs at only 1mA supply current. With 200µV max input offset voltage and 3.9nV/√Hz input-referred noise, it is well suited for precision industrial and data acquisition applications.

Quad µModule Analog-to-Digital Converters with Integrated Signal Conditioning Reduce Size, Power & Time-to-Market for Imaging & Base Station Designs

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:50:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 24, 2012 – Linear Technology introduces the LTM9012, a quad 14-bit, 125Msps µModule® analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated fixed gain drivers, passive filtering and bypass capacitance. The integrated µModule converters offer dramatic reduction in board space for high channel-count applications as diverse as medical imaging systems and MIMO (multiple input multiple output) 4G base stations. This high level of integration enables smaller boards with greater density, while eliminating costly layout iterations often required to optimize the driver-to-ADC interface. This results in a significant reduction in design and debug time and faster time to market. Equivalent implementations require five devices and dozens of passive components compared to the LTM9012 in an easy-to-use 15mm x 11.25mm BGA µModule package.

Dual 60VIN, 1A(IOUT) Monolithic 2.5MHz Step-Down DC/DC Converter Withstands 80V Transients

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:27:43 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 19, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3988, a 60VIN step-down switching regulator that can deliver dual 1A outputs. The LT3988 operates within a VIN range of 4V to 60V, with overvoltage lockout protection against transients as high as 80V, making it ideal for load dump and cold-crank conditions commonly found in automotive applications. The LT3988 can be driven by two separate input rails or by a single input, maximizing design flexibility. Its internal 1.3A switches deliver up to 1A of continuous output current. Switching frequency is user-programmable from 250kHz to 2.5MHz, enabling the designer to maximize efficiency, while avoiding critical noise-sensitive frequency bands. The combination of its thermally enhanced MSOP-16E package and high switching frequency, which keeps the external inductor and capacitors small, provides a compact, thermally efficient footprint.

Dual Positive/Negative ±20VIN ±150mA LDO with 20uVRMS Noise Now Offered in High Reliability, MP-Grade Temperature Range

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 10:58:22 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 18, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces a new high reliability MP grade, wider temperature range version of the LT3032, a dual, low noise, positive/negative low dropout voltage linear regulator. The device delivers up to ±150mA continuous output current on each channel with a 300mV dropout voltage at full load. The LT3032 features a wide input voltage range of ±2.3V to ±20V, delivering adjustable output voltages from ±1.22V to ±20V. A single capacitor provides ultralow noise operation of only 20uVRMS across a wide bandwidth of 10Hz to 100kHz for the positive output rail, and only 30uVRMS for the negative rail. The LT3032’s output voltage tolerance is highly accurate at ±3% over line, load and temperature. The device’s wide input and output voltage ranges, fast transient response and low quiescent current of 30uA per channel (operating) and <3uA in shutdown (total) make it an excellent choice for portable battery-powered systems that require optimum run time, and for use in bipolar op amp/instrumentation power supply and low noise supply applications.

100V, Constant-Current & Constant-Voltage Controller with Input & Output Current Sense

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:07:39 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 17, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LT3796, a 100V, high-side current sense DC/DC controller designed to regulate a constant-current or constant-voltage that is ideal for driving high brightness (HB) LEDs. Its 6V to 100V input voltage range supports a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting. The LT3796 uses an external N-channel MOSFET and can drive up to 85V of white LEDs from a nominal 12V input, delivering in excess of 50 Watts. The LT3796 is ideal for charging batteries or supercaps at constant current and voltage. The LT3796 incorporates a high-side current sense, enabling its use in boost, buck, buck-boost or SEPIC and flyback topologies. Additionally, it offers both input and output current limiting and monitoring for added reliability and design flexibility. The LT3796 can deliver efficiencies of over 94% in boost mode, minimizing the need for external heat sinking. A frequency adjust pin enables the user to program the frequency between 100kHz and 1MHz, optimizing efficiency while minimizing external component size and cost. Combined with a thermally enhanced TSSOP-28 package, the LT3796 offers a highly compact HB LED driver or charger solution.

18-Bit, 2.5Msps No Latency SAR ADC Achieves 99.8dB SNR with Flexible Analog Input Ranges

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 10:31:25 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 12, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2389-18, the industry’s fastest 18-bit no cycle latency SAR ADC (analog-to-digital converter). The LTC2389-18 achieves unrivaled 99.8dB SNR and -116dB THD at sample rates up to 2.5Msps. Operating from a single 5V supply, the LTC2389-18 supports three pin-configurable analog input ranges, easily interfacing to multiple signal chains with a single device. For the highest SNR performance, the LTC2389-18 can be configured for fully differential (±4.096V) inputs. The pseudo-differential unipolar (0V to 4.096V) and bipolar (±2.048V) analog input ranges enable lower power single-ended drive and benefit from the reduction of unwanted signals common to both inputs. The LTC2389-18 is well suited for demanding designs that require maximum signal swings at low power levels in noisy industrial environments.

36V Nano Current Voltage Monitor Targets Multicell Applications

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 11:11:11 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 9, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2960, a 2.5V to 36V, two input voltage monitor that draws only 850nA of quiescent current, offering extended battery life in battery-powered applications. The LTC2960 provides two adjustable monitoring inputs that can be configured to provide undervoltage (UV) or overvoltage (OV) monitoring, low battery indication, undervoltage lockout (UVLO), power supply sequencing signals or a high voltage window comparator for microprocessor, DC/DC switcher or LDO based systems. The LTC2960 fulfills a broad range of battery-powered, portable application requirements with its wide voltage operation and low current consumption in a tiny 2mm x 2mm DFN or ThinSOT™ package.

Robust Dual RS232/RS485 Multiprotocol Transceiver Provides Integrated Switchable Termination

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 16:06:01 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – April 2, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2872 multiprotocol transceiver with switchable integrated termination for 3.3V and 5V systems. RS485 systems require a termination resistor on the ends of the communication bus to minimize signal reflections. The LTC2872 integrates pin-controlled termination resistors for easy interface reconfiguration, eliminating external resistors and control relays. The termination resistors, when enabled, are automatically switched in or out to match the transceiver’s protocol selection of RS232 or RS485. The device also features high ESD protection: ±16kV HBM on the transceiver bus pins, when powered off or operating. The LTC2872 can be configured as four RS232 single-ended transceivers or two RS485 differential transceivers, or combinations of both, on shared I/O lines, reducing component count for multiprotocol networks, offering on-the-fly configurability.

60V Input, Dual 3A(IOUT), 2.25MHz Step-Down DC/DC Converter

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 10:36:27 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 29, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT3992, a monolithic, dual output step-down switching regulator that delivers up to 3A of continuous output current from each channel. It operates from an input voltage range of 3V to 60V, ideal for applications requiring continuous output voltage regulation through load dump and cold-crank conditions found in automotive applications. Independent input, shutdown, feedback, soft-start, current limit and comparator pins for each channel simplify complex power supply tracking/sequencing requirements. The LT3992’s switching frequency is user programmable from 250kHz to 2.25MHz, enabling the designer to optimize efficiency while avoiding critical noise-sensitive frequency bands.

High Linearity Downconverting Mixer Covers 4-6GHz RF Frequency Range

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 10:50:52 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 28, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC5544, a 4GHz to 6GHz high dynamic range downconverting mixer. The LTC5544 mixer offers high linearity with 25.9dBm IIP3 (Input Third-Order Intercept), high conversion gain of 7.4dB owing to its integrated IF amplifier, and a noise figure of 11.3dB. These performance characteristics enable excellent dynamic range performance for both main receivers and digital pre-distortion receivers. Moreover, the LTC5544’s RF input can withstand strong interference signals without significantly degrading its noise figure, thus preserving receiver sensitivity and enhancing robustness. The LTC5544 operates on a single 3.3V supply without compromising performance, while keeping power consumption to a minimum.

Isolated RS485 & RS232 µModule Transceivers Now Specified for -55°C to 105°C for Military & Automotive Applications

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:34:01 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 26, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces automotive (H-grade) and high reliability military (MP-grade) versions of the LTM2881 and LTM2882, isolated µModule® transceivers which guard against large ground-to-ground differentials and common-mode transients in RS485 and RS232 networks. The LTM2881 single RS485 and LTM2882 dual RS232 transceivers break ground loops by isolating the logic level interface and line transceiver using internal inductive signal isolation. This allows for a much larger common- mode voltage range plus superior common mode rejection >30kV/us. A low EMI, 1W DC/DC converter generates the power supplies for driving RS485 or RS232 levels and provides an additional isolated 5V supply output for powering any supporting external components. With 2,500VRMS of galvanic isolation, onboard secondary power, and fully compliant transmitters and receivers, the LTM2881 and LTM2882 require no external components, providing complete, compact µModule solutions for isolated serial data communications. The H- and MP-grade versions are guaranteed over operating ambient temperatures from -40°C to 105°C and -55°C to 105°C, respectively. More on Linear Technology’s military grade flow is available at www.linear.com/docs/Quality/mpgrade.pdf.

36V, 5A µModule Regulator Protects Input Supplies from Overcurrent Conditions & Supports Asymmetric Power Sharing

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 10:07:21 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 15, 2012 Linear Technology announces the LTM8026, a 36V input, 5A step-down µModule® regulator with an adjustable and precise (+/-10%) accurate current limit. The current limit enables designers to set the maximum amount of power drawn from the supply, preventing input voltage droop caused by overcurrent conditions. When multiple LTM8026 are configured with the outputs tied together, each converter can be programmed with a unique maximum current limit to meet its specific input supply limitations for greater output power, a technique known as asymmetric power sharing. In contrast, common regulators must current share, a feature where each input supply contributes equally to the load, which is restricted by the least powerful input rail. Applications for the LTM8026 include point of load regulation in systems with 24V and 12V supplies such as VXI bus, for automotive, medical and industrial end-markets.

15W I²C Power Manager Charges LiFePO4 Cells at 3.5A for High Power Density Portable & Battery Back-up Systems

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:22:04 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 14, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4156, a high power, I²C controlled, high efficiency PowerPath™ manager, ideal diode controller and Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery charger for single-cell devices such as portable medical and industrial devices, backup devices and other high power density battery-powered applications. The IC is designed to efficiently transfer up to 15W from a variety of sources while minimizing power dissipation and easing thermal constraints. The LTC4156’s switching PowerPath topology seamlessly manages power distribution from two input sources such as a wall adapter and USB port to the device’s rechargeable LiFePO4 battery while preferentially providing power to the system load when input power is limited.

60V Synchronous Buck-Boost LED Driver Delivers over 100W of LED Power

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 11:55:46 -0500

MILPITAS, CA – March 12, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LT3791, a synchronous buck-boost DC/DC LED driver and voltage controller, which can deliver over 100W of LED power. Its 4.7V to 60V input voltage range makes it ideal for a wide variety of applications, including automotive, industrial and architectural lighting. Similarly, its output voltage can be set from 0V to 60V, enabling the LT3791 to drive a wide range of LEDs in a single string. Its internal 4-switch buck-boost controller operates from input voltages above, below or equal to the output voltage, ideal for applications such as automotive, where the input voltage can vary dramatically during stop/start, cold crank and load dump scenarios. Transitions between buck, pass-through and boost operating modes are seamless, offering a well-regulated output even with wide variations of supply voltage. The LT3791’s unique design utilizes three control loops to monitor input current, LED current and output voltage to deliver optimal performance and reliability.

Micropower Pushbutton On/Off Controller Provides Automatic Turn-On/Off Capabilities

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:09:15 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – March 7, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2955 pushbutton on/off controller that manages 1.5V to 36V system power via a pushbutton interface or the presence of a supply. Unlike typical pushbutton controllers that initiate system power-ups only with the toggle of a pushbutton, the LTC2955 automatically turns on a system when power is applied from a primary or secondary supply, such as a wall adapter or car battery. When powered up, the LTC2955 can power down a system via pushbutton and optionally can use interrupt logic to request a system power-down in menu-driven applications (“soft” shutdown), or automatically power-down a system if the supply is removed. Absolutely no code is required to configure the device. The LTC2955 is a simple, yet configurable, high voltage pushbutton controller that provides a common set of on/off power options.

Quad Digital Power Supply Manager with Powerful GUI Speeds Development

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:43:26 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 21, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2974 power supply manager with EEPROM for complete digital management of power supply systems with four or more power rails. The LTC2974 utilizes an I²C interface and PMBus command set to monitor and control positive or negative supplies, providing rapid troubleshooting and debug capabilities during power system design, development, production and failure analysis. Any supply with a “run” pin can be sequenced and controlled using tracking or time-based events. The LTC2974’s four channels simultaneously monitor voltage and current, as well as external temperature so users can compensate for shifting MOSFET RDS(ON) or inductor DCR. Each supply can be margined and trimmed over temperature, using a digital servo loop that measures the rail voltage and continuously adjusts to maintain accuracy. All of the LTC2974’s supply functions perform with uncompromising accuracy, with better than ±0.25% total unadjusted error. Users can harness the powerful LTpowerPlay™ GUI to intuitively configure and interrogate the LTC2974’s registers, user settings, and fault log. For applications requiring more than four supplies, the LTC2974 can be cascaded using a 1-wire synchronization bus, allowing fault dependencies to be established across devices sharing the fault bus.

Synchronous Rail-to-Rail, Single Resistor Step-Down Regulator Delivers 1.5A at 0V to 15V

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 15:56:02 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 13, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3600, a 1.5A, high efficiency, synchronous buck regulator that can be easily paralleled for higher current applications and is adjustable down to 0V with a single resistor. This new switching regulator architecture uses a 50µA current reference, combined with a single resistor to set the output voltage. This unique design enables easy current sharing between multiple regulators, setting the output voltage for all of the regulators with a single external resistor.

Synchronous Step-Down Controller Provides True Current Mode Control with Sub Milliohm DCR Sensing

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:25:42 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 8, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3866, a current mode synchronous step-down DC/DC controller that allows the use of very low DC resistance power inductor using a novel DCR sensing architecture that enhances the signal-to-noise ratio of the current sense signal. A power inductor DC resistance of as low as 0.17 milliohms can be used to maximize converter efficiency and increase power density. This new DCR sensing technique dramatically reduces the switching jitter normally associated with low DCR resistance applications. DCR temperature compensation maintains a constant and accurate current limit threshold over a broad temperature range.

Dual Output, Multiphase Step-Down DC/DC Controller Operates with Power Blocks & DrMOS Devices

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:27:54 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – February 7, 2012 - Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3861, a dual output synchronous step-down DC/DC controller with multiphase operation, differential output voltage sensing and high frequency operation. This controller works in conjunction with external power train devices such as power blocks and DrMOS, as well as discrete N-channel MOSFETs and associated gate drivers, enabling flexible design configurations. Up to 12 phases can be paralleled and clocked out-of-phase to minimize input and output filtering for very high current requirements (up to 300A). Applications include high current power distribution and industrial systems, DSP and ASIC supplies.

Wideband I/Q Demodulator with IIP2 Optimization & DC Offset Cancellation Improves Receiver Performance

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:31:21 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 30, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the LTC5585, an ultrawide bandwidth direct conversion I/Q demodulator with outstanding linearity performance (IIP3 = 25.7dBm and IIP2 = 60dBm at 1.95GHz). The device is capable of baseband output demodulation bandwidth of over 530MHz, which can support new generation wideband LTE multimode receivers’ and digital pre-distortion (DPD) receivers’ bandwidth requirements. The I/Q demodulator operates over a wide frequency range from 700MHz to 3GHz, covering virtually all cellular base station frequency bands. Unique to this device are two built-in calibration features. One is advanced circuitry that enables the system designer to optimize the receiver’s IIP2 performance, increasing from a nominal 60dBm to an unprecedented 80dBm or higher. The other is on-chip circuitry to null out the DC offset voltages at the I and Q outputs. Both serve to enhance receiver performance. Moreover, the LTC5585 delivers excellent P1dB of 16dBm.

Dual 3A, 2.5MHz, 42V Boost/Inverting DC/DC Converter with Fault Protection

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 14:16:14 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 25, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation announces the LT8582, a dual independent channel, step-up DC/DC converter with integrated fault protection features for output shorts, input/output overvoltages, and overtemperature conditions. Each channel of the LT8582 uses two integrated 42V switches: a 1.7A master switch and a 1.3A slave switch that can be tied together for a total current limit of 3A. The LT8582 operates from an input voltage range of 2.5V to 22V with transient protection to 40V, making it suitable for applications with input sources ranging from a single-cell Li-Ion to automotive inputs. The LT8582 is ideal for many local power supply designs as each channel can be independently configured as either a boost, SEPIC, inverting or flyback converter. The combination of a 4mm x 7mm DFN package and tiny externals ensures a very compact footprint while minimizing solution cost.

Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Controller Delivers Up to 95% Efficiency with 2MHz Operating Frequency

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:10:32 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 17, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3839, a high frequency controlled on-time single output dual phase synchronous step-down DC/DC controller that can achieve up to 95% efficiency with a 25A output when operating at 2MHz. The operating frequency is selectable from 200kHz to 2MHz or can be synchronized to an external clock. A low 30ns minimum on-time allows for a high step-down ratio at very high operating frequencies. The controlled on-time, valley current-mode architecture and Detect Transient Release feature provide a very fast transient response by increasing operating frequency during a transient event, enabling the output voltage to recover in only a few clock cycles. Up to 12 phases can be paralleled and clocked out of phase for high current applications (up to 250A).

High Voltage Surge Stopper with Current Limit Shields Sensitive Electronics from Transients Beyond 100V

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:30:22 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 16, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LT4363, an overvoltage protection controller that provides overvoltage and overcurrent protection to high-availability electronic systems. Supply voltages surge whenever currents flowing through long inductive power buses change abruptly. Also, automotive batteries experience a condition known as load-dump, where the voltage can stay elevated for many milliseconds. Traditional protection circuitry relies on bulky inductors, capacitors, fuses, and transient voltage suppressors. Instead, the LT4363 creates a robust, adaptable, and space-efficient design with simple control of an N-channel MOSFET. Only the controller and the MOSFET suffer the high voltage surge; downstream components can afford lower voltage ratings, thereby saving costs.

42V Input with 55V Transient Protection, 2MHz Dual Step-Down Regulator with Power-On Reset & Watchdog Timer with 150°C Maximum Junction Temperature

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:37:20 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 12, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the H-grade version of the LT3641, a dual channel, current mode step-down switching regulator with power-on reset and a watchdog timer. Its 4V to 42V input voltage range, with 55V transient capability, makes it ideal for load dump and cold crank conditions commonly found in automotive applications, which require constant output regulation even with input transients as high as 55V. The LT3641 uses a unique dual channel design with a high input voltage (4VIN to 42VIN, 55VIN transient capability) nonsynchronous channel that delivers 1.3A of output current, combined with a lower input voltage (2.5VIN to 5.5VIN) synchronous channel that delivers up to 1.1A of continuous output current. While the device allows separate inputs for each channel, most applications will use the output of the high voltage channel to power the lower voltage channel, offering dual outputs while optimizing efficiency and switching frequency. For example, using a nominal 12V input and a 2MHz switching frequency, the LT3641 can deliver a 3.3V output at 600mA with 85% efficiency via its high voltage channel and a 1.8V output at 800mA with 90% secondary conversion efficiency via its lower voltage channel.

36VIN with 60V Transient Protection, Dual Tracking 3.5A(IOUT), 2.25MHz Step-Down DC/DC Converter with 150°C Maximum Junction Temperature

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:15:19 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 11, 2012 – Linear Technology announces the H-grade version of the LT3692A, a monolithic, dual output step-down switching regulator that delivers up to 3.5A of continuous output current from each channel. It operates from a VIN range of 3V to 36V with transient protection to 60V, making it ideal for load dump and cold-crank conditions found in automotive applications. Independent input, shutdown, feedback, soft-start, current limit and comparator pins for each channel simplify complex power supply tracking/sequencing requirements. The LT3692A’s switching frequency is user-programmable from 250kHz to 2.25MHz, enabling the designer to optimize efficiency while avoiding critical noise-sensitive frequency bands.

Dual 18-Bit Current Output SPI DAC Achieves ±1LSB INL & DNL

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:38:31 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 10, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2758, the industry's first high performance dual, 18-bit, current output digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The LTC2758 offers accurate 18-bit DC specifications, including ±1LSB (max) INL and DNL over temperature. In addition to excellent DC specifications, the LTC2758 offers fast settling of 2.1µs and low 0.4nV•s (3V), 2nV•s (5V) glitch impulse, making it possible to produce higher frequency, lower noise output waveforms. This unique combination of DC and AC accuracy in a dual DAC enables design of higher performance medical devices, instrumentation, automated test equipment, process control and industrial automation.

Floating Surge Stopper Provides Unlimited Overvoltage Protection

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 15:33:29 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – January 9, 2012 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4366, an overvoltage protection controller for electronic systems. Operating from 9V to greater than 500V, the LTC4366 floating surge stopper utilizes an adjustable floating topology to enable very high voltage operation independent of the voltage rating of the LTC4366’s internal circuitry. Two internal shunt regulators coupled with the external voltage-dropping resistors generate the LTC4366’s internal supply rails. The maximum operating voltage is set by the breakdown of the external resistors and MOSFETS. The LTC4366 is the first product of its kind to protect, for example, a 12V circuit from a 500V transient without the need for additional protection components.

Linear Technology Acquisition of Dust Networks Extends Wireless Sensor Networking Capabilities

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 10:04:56 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – December 20, 2011 – Linear Technology Corporation (NASDAQ: LLTC), a leader in high performance analog integrated circuits, today announced the acquisition of Dust Networks, Inc., a leading provider of low power wireless sensor network (WSN) technology. The acquisition of Dust Networks, based in Hayward, CA, will enable Linear to offer a complete high performance wireless sensor networking solution. Dust Networks’ low power radio and software technology complements Linear’s strengths in industrial instrumentation, power management and energy harvesting technology.

±60V Fault Protected Full-/Half-Duplex 3V to 5.5V RS485 Transceivers Achieve 20Mbps

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 10:41:47 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – December 21, 2011 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2862-2865, a family of exceptionally rugged, high voltage tolerant RS485/RS422 transceivers for elimination of field failures without the need of costly external protection devices. In practical RS485 systems, installation cross-wiring faults, ground voltage faults or lightning induced surge voltages can cause overvoltage conditions that exceed absolute maximum ratings of typical transceivers. The LTC2862-2865 feature ±60V overvoltage fault protection on the data transmission lines, protecting bus pins during operation and power shutdown. Whether a circuit is transmitting, receiving, in standby or powered off, the LTC2862-2865 tolerate any voltage within ±60V without damage, increasing the robustness of any typical RS485 network. The low power family supports fast 20Mbps and low-EMI slew-rate-limited 250kbps data rates, as well as half- and full-duplex versions.

24V, 15A Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with Differential Output Sensing & Clock Synchronization

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:42:12 -0600

MILPITAS, CA – December 20, 2011 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3613, a high frequency controlled on-time synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with differential output voltage sensing and clock synchronization. The controlled on-time, valley current mode architecture enables a very fast transient response by increasing its operating frequency during a transient event, allowing the LTC3613 to recover from a large load step in only a few clock cycles. Its 4.5V to 24V input range supports a wide variety of applications, including most intermediate bus voltages. Integrated N-channel MOSFETs can deliver continuous load currents as high as 15A at output voltages ranging from 0.6V to 5.5V, making it ideal for point-of-load applications.