LINER LTC3541

LTC3541
High Efficiency
Buck + VLDO Regulator
FEATURES
DESCRIPTIO
High Efficiency, 500mA Buck Plus 300mA VLDOTM
Regulator
Auto Start-Up Powers Buck Output Prior to
VLDO/Linear Regulator Output
■ Independent High Efficiency, 500mA Buck
(VIN: 2.7V to 5.5V)
■ 300mA VLDO Regulator with 30mA Standalone Mode
■ No External Schottky Diodes Required
■ Buck Output Voltage Range: 0.8V to 5V
■ VLDO Input Voltage Range (LV ): 0.9V to 5.5V
IN
■ VLDO Output Voltage Range VLDO: 0.4V to 4.1V
■ Selectable Fixed Frequency, Pulse-Skip Operation or
Burst Mode® Operation
■ Short-Circuit Protected
■ Current Mode Operation for Excellent Line and Load
Transient Response
■ Constant Frequency Operation: 2.25MHz
■ Low Dropout Buck Operation: 100% Duty Cycle
■ Small, Thermally Enhanced, 10-Lead (3mm × 3mm)
DFN Package
The LTC ®3541 combines a synchronous buck DC/DC
converter with a very low dropout linear regulator
(VLDO) to provide up to two output voltages from a single
input voltage with minimal external components. When
configured for dual output operation, the LTC3541’s auto
start-up feature will bring the Buck output into regulation
in a controlled manner prior to enabling the VLDO regulator
output without the need for external pin control. VLDO/
linear regulator output prior to Buck output sequencing
may also be obtained via external pin control. The input
voltage range is ideally suited for Li-Ion battery-powered
applications, as well as powering sub-3.3V logic from 5V
or 3.3V rails.
U
■
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APPLICATIO S
■
■
■
■
■
■
The synchronous buck converter provides a high efficiency
output, typically 90%, capable of providing up to 500mA
of continuous output current while switching at 2.25MHz,
allowing the use of small surface mount inductors and capacitors. A mode-select pin allows Burst Mode operation
to be enabled for higher efficiency at light load currents, or
disabled for lower noise, constant frequency operation.
The VLDO regulator provides a low noise, low voltage
output capable of providing up to 300mA of continuous
output current using only a 2.2µF ceramic capacitor. The
input supply voltage of the VLDO regulator (LVIN) may
come from the buck regulator or a separate supply.
PDAs/Palmtop PCs
Digital Cameras
Cellular Phones
PC Cards
Wireless and DSL Modems
Other Portable Power Systems
, LT, LTc and LTM are registered trademarks of Linear Technology corporation.
VLDO is a trademark of Linear Technology corporation.
All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Protected by U.S. Patents, including 5481178, 6611131, 6304066, 6498466, 6580258
TYPICAL APPLICATIO
Buck (Burst) Efficiency and Power Loss vs Load Current
U
100
LTC3541 Typical Application
VIN
243k
MODE
LTC3541
ENBUCK
GND
22pF
BUCKFB
2.2µH
LVIN
115k
LFB
LVOUT
PGND
EFFICIENCY (%)
ENVLDO
150k
412k
2.2µF
3541 TA01a
0.1
70
60
POWER LOSS
50
0.01
40
30
0.001
20
VOUT2
1.5V
300mA
VIN = 3.3V
VOUT = 2.5V
10
0
POWER LOSS (W)
SW
10µF
EFFICIENCY
80
VIN
2.9V TO 5.5V
VOUT1
2.5V
200mA
1
90
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
0.0001
1000
3541 TA01b
3541fa
LTC3541
W W
W
(Note 1)
AXI U RATI GS
U
ABSOLUTE
Supply Voltages:
VIN, LVIN................................................... –0.3V to 6V
LVIN – VIN...........................................................<0.3V
Pin Voltages:
ENVLDO, ENBUCK, MODE, SW,
LFB, BUCKFB..............................–0.3V to (VIN + 0.3V)
Linear Regulator IOUT(MAX) (100ms) (Note 9).......100mA
Operating Ambient Temperature Range
(Note 2)..................................................... –40°C to 85°C
Junction Temperature (Note 5).............................. 125°C
Storage Temperature Range.................... –65°C to 125°C
U
W
U
PACKAGE/ORDER I FOR ATIO
TOP VIEW
10 SW
VIN
1
ENBUcK
2
BUcKFB
3
LFB
4
7 GND
LVOUT
5
6 LVIN
9 ENVLDO
11
8 MODE
DD PAcKAGE
10-LEAD (3mm × 3mm) PLASTIc DFN TJMAX = 125°C, θJA = 43°C/W
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 11) IS GND, MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB
Order part number
DD part marking
LTC3541EDD
lcbs
Order Options Tape and Reel: Add #TR
Lead Free: Add #PBF Lead Free Tape and Reel: Add #TRPBF
Lead Free Part Marking: http://www.linear.com/leadfree/
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges.
ELECTRICAL
CHARACTERISTICS
The ● denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN = 3.6V unless otherwise specified (Note 2)
SYMBOL
IPK
PARAMETER
Peak Inductor Current
CONDITIONS
VIN = 4.2V (Note 8)
IBUCKFB
BUCKFB Pin Input Current
VBUCKFB = 0.9V
l
ILFB
LFB Pin Input Current
VLFB = 0.45V
l
–200
VIN
Input Voltage Range
(Note 4)
l
2.7
VIN(LINEREG)
Buck VIN Line Regulation VIN = 2.7V to 5.5V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = 0V, MODE = VIN (Note 6)
VIN = 2.7V to 5.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = VIN,
ENVLDO = VIN, IOUT(VLDO) = 100mA, LVIN = 1.5V
VIN = 2.7V to 5.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = 0V,
ENVLDO = VIN, IOUT(LREG) = 10mA
LVIN = 0.9V to 5.5V, VIN = 5.5V, LVOUT = 0.4V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = VIN,
IOUT(VLDO) = 100mA
LVIN = 1.5V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = VIN, IOUT(VLDO) = 50mA, VLFB = 0.3V
ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = 0V, MODE = VIN (Note 6)
l
IOUT(VLDO) = 1mA – 300mA, LVIN = 1.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V,
ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = VIN
IOUT(LREG) = 1mA – 30mA, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = VIN
ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = 0V, TA = 25°C
l
0.25
0.5
%
l
0.25
0.5
%
0.784
0.8
0.816
V
0.782
0.8
0.818
V
VLDO VIN Line Regulation (Referred to LFB)
Linear Regulator VIN Line
Regulation (Referred to LFB)
LVIN(LINEREG) LVIN Line Regulation (Referred to LFB)
VLDODO
VLOADREG
LVIN – LVOUT Dropout Voltage
(Note 9)
Buck Output Load Regulation
VLDO Output Load Regulation
Linear Regulator Output Load
VBUCKFB
Reference Regulation Voltage
(Note 6)
Reference Regulation Voltage
(Note 7)
MAX
1.25
UNITS
A
±50
nA
–40
0.04
nA
5.5
V
0.4
%/V
0.6
mV/V
0.6
mV/V
0.3
mV/V
60
0.5
l
ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = VIN, TA = 25°C
ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = VIN, 0°C ≤ TA ≤ 85°C
ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = VIN, –40°C ≤ TA ≤ 85°C
TYP
0.95
28
ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = 0V, 0°C ≤ TA ≤ 85°C
ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = 0V, –40°C ≤ TA ≤ 85°C
VLFB
MIN
0.8
l
mV
%
0.78
0.8
0.82
V
0.392
0.4
0.408
V
0.391
0.4
0.409
V
0.390
0.4
0.410
V
3541fa
LTC3541
ELECTRICAL
CHARACTERISTICS
The ● denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN = 3.6V unless otherwise specified (Note 2)
SYMBOL
IS
PARAMETER
Buck + VLDO Burst Mode Sleep VIN Quiescent Current
Buck + VLDO Burst Mode Active
VIN Quiescent Current
Buck + VLDO
Pulse-Skip Mode Active
VIN Quiescent Current
Buck
Burst Mode Sleep
VIN Quiescent Current
Buck
Burst Mode Active
VIN Quiscent Current
Buck
Pulse-Skip Mode Active
VIN Quiescent Current
Linear Regulator VIN Quiescent
Current
VIN Shutdown Quiescent Current
CONDITIONS
LVIN = 1.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = 0V, IOUT(VLDO) = 10µA,
VBUCKFB = 0.9V
LVIN = 1.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = 0V, IOUT(VLDO) = 10µA,
VBUCKFB = 0.7V
LVIN = 1.5V, LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = VIN, ENVLDO = VIN, MODE = VIN, IOUT(VLDO) = 10µA,
VBUCKFB = 0.7V
VBUCKFB = 0.9V, IOUT(BUCK) = 0A, ENBUCK = VIN,
ENVLDO = 0V, MODE = 0V
MIN
TYP
85
MAX
UNITS
µA
315
µA
300
µA
55
µA
VBUCKFB = 0.7V, IOUT(BUCK) = 0A, ENBUCK = VIN,
ENVLDO = 0V, MODE = 0V
300
µA
VBUCKFB = 0.7V, IOUT(BUCK) = 0A, ENBUCK = VIN,
ENVLDO = 0V, MODE = VIN
285
µA
LVOUT = 1.2V, ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = VIN,
IOUT(LREG) = 10µA
ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = 0V
50
µA
2.5
µA
0.1
µA
LVIN Shutdown Quiescent Current LVIN = 3.6V, ENBUCK = 0V, ENVLDO = 0V
fOSC
Oscillator Frequency
RPFET
RDS(ON) of P-Channel MOSFET
ISW = 100mA
0.25
Ω
RNFET
RDS(ON) of N-Channel MOSFET
ISW = 100mA
0.35
Ω
ILSW
SW Leakage
Enable = 0V, VSW = 0V or 6V, VIN = 6V
VIH
Input Pin High Threshold
MODE, ENBUCK, ENVLDO
l
VIL
Input Pin Low Threshold
MODE, ENBUCK, ENVLDO
l
IMODE,
IENBUCK,
IENVLDO
Input Pin Current
l
Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device
reliability and lifetime.
Note 2: The LTC3541 is guaranteed to meet performance specifications
from 0°C to 85°C. VLDO/linear regulator output is tested and specified
under pulse load conditions such that TJ ≈ TA, and are 100% production
tested at 25°C. Specifications over the –40°C to 85°C operating
temperature range are assured by design, characterization and correlation
with statistical process controls.
Note 3: Minimum operating LVIN voltage required for VLDO regulator
regulation is:
LVIN ≥ LVOUT + VDROPOUT and LVIN ≥ 0.9V
Note 4: Minimum operating VIN voltage required for VLDO regulator and
linear regulator regulation is: VIN ≥ LVOUT + 1.4V and VIN ≥ 2.7V
Note 5: TJ is calculated from the ambient temperature, TA, and power
dissipation, PD, according to the following formula:
TJ = TA + (PD • 43°C/W)
1.8
2.25
±0.01
l
2.7
±1
0.9
MHz
µA
V
±0.01
0.3
V
±1
µA
Note 6: The LTC3541 is tested in a proprietary test mode that connects
VBUCKFB to the output of the error amplifier. For the reference regulation
and line regulation tests, the output of the error amplifier is set to the
midpoint. For the load regulation test, the output of the error amplifier is
driven to minimum and maximum of the signal range.
Note 7: Measurement made in closed loop linear regulator configuration
with LVOUT = 1.2V, ILOAD = 10µA.
Note 8: Measurement made in a proprietary test mode with slope
compensation disabled.
Note 9: Measurement is assured by design, characterization and statistical
process control.
Note 10: This IC includes overtemperature protection that is intended
to protect the device during momentary overload conditions. Junction
temperature will exceed 125°C when overtemperature protection is active.
Continuous operation above the specified maximum operating junction
temperature may impair device reliability.
3541fa
LTC3541
TYPICAL PERFOR A CE CHARACTERISTICS
U W
Efficiency vs Input Voltage for
Buck (Burst)
100
VOUT = 1.8V
95
EFFICIENCY (%)
EFFICIENCY (%)
IOUT = 100mA
80
90
IOUT = 500mA
90
IOUT = 500mA
85
100
VOUT = 1.8V
95
90
IOUT = 30mA
75
70
65
85
80
75
IOUT = 100mA
70
IOUT = 30mA
65
50
40
30
20
55
10
50
6
4
5
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2
Efficiency vs Load Current for
Buck (Burst)
100
VIN = 2.7V
VIN = 3.6V
80
80
EFFIcIENcY (%)
70
60
50
40
60
50
40
30
20
20
10
10
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
VIN = 3.6V
250
VOUT = 1.5V
VIN = 3V
200
BIAS CURRENT (µA)
60
VIN = 4.2V
40
1
10
100
LOAD cURRENT (mA)
1000
0
50
100
150
200
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
250
300
3541 G07
VIN = 4.2V
60
50
40
30
0
0.1
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
VIN = 3.6V
ILOAD(BUCK) = 0
IBIAS = IVIN + ILVIN – ILOAD
3541 G06
VOUT
2V/DIV
150
LVOUT
2V/DIV
100
VIN
2V/DIV
0
0.1
IVOUT = 300mA
ILVOUT = 200mA
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
1000
Output (Auto Start-Up Sequence,
Buck in Pulse Skip) vs Time
50
20
0
70
Buck (Burst) Plus VLDO Bias
Current vs VLDO Load Current
VIN = 3.6V
VIN = 3.6V
3541 G05
VLDO Dropout Voltage vs
Load Current
80
VIN = 2.7V
80
10
VOUT = 2.5V
3541 G04
100
VOUT = 2.5V
20
0
0.1
1000
90
VIN = 4.2V
70
30
0
0.1
100
VIN = 2.7V
90
VIN = 4.2V
Efficiency vs Load Current for
Buck (Pulse Skip)
EFFICIENCY (%)
VOUT = 1.8V
90
1000
3541 G03
3541 G02
Efficiency vs Load Current for
Buck (Pulse Skip)
100
VOUT = 1.8V
0
0.1
1
10
100
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
6
4
5
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
3
3541 G01
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
60
55
3
VIN = 4.2V
VIN = 3.6V
70
60
2
VIN = 2.7V
80
60
50
EFFICIENCY (%)
Efficiency vs Load Current for
Buck (Burst)
EFFICIENCY (%)
100
Efficiency vs Input Voltage for
Buck (Pulse Skip)
2ms/DIV
3541 G09
1000
3541 G08
3541fa
LTC3541
TYPICAL PERFOR A CE CHARACTERISTICS
U W
Oscillator Frequency
vs Temperature
2.45
2.5
VIN = 3.6V
0.410
VIN = 3.6V
0.408
2.30
2.25
2.20
2.15
2.10
2.3
2.2
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
2.0
125
100
5
4
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (V)
3
3541 G10
0.400
0.398
0.396
6
0.390
–50 –25
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
125
100
5341 G12
3541 G11
Buck Reference vs Temperature
Buck (Burst) and VLDO Output
RDS(ON) vs Temperature
0.700
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
0.600
0.812
0.500
0.808
0.804
RDS(ON) (Ω)
REFERENCE (V)
0.402
0.392
2.00
–50 –25
0.816
0.404
0.394
2.1
2.05
0.820
VIN = 3.6V
0.406
2.4
2.35
FREQUENCY (MHz)
FREQUENCY (MHz)
2.40
VLDO/Linear Regulator Reference
vs Temperature
REFERENCE (V)
2.50
Oscillator Frequency
vs Supply Voltage
0.400
0.800
VOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
SYNCH SWITCH
0.300
0.796
0.792
0.200
0.788
0.100
0.784
0.780
–50 –25
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
MAIN SWITCH
0
–50 –25
50
25
75
0
TEMPERATURE (°C)
5341 G13
125
Buck (Burst) Load Step from
1mA to 500mA
VOUT
100mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
VOUT
100mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
IL
500mA/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
ILOAD
500mA/DIV
ILOAD
500mA/DIV
3541 G16
100
2µs/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
VOUT = 1.8V
ILOAD = 50mA
Burst Mode OPERATION
3541 G15
3541 G14
Buck (Pulse Skip) Load Step from
1mA to 500mA
40µs/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
VOUT = 1.8V
ILOAD = 1mA TO 500mA
VIN = 2.5V
VIN = 3.6V
VIN = 5.5V
VLDO Load Step from
1mA to 500mA
LVOUT
20mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
ILOAD
250mA/DIV
40µs/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
VOUT = 1.8V
ILOAD = 1mA TO 500mA
3541 G17
400µs/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 1mA TO 300mA
3541 G18
3541fa
LTC3541
TYPICAL PERFOR A CE CHARACTERISTICS
U W
VLDO Load Step from
100mA to 300mA
Linear Regulator to VLDO
Transient Step, Load = 1mA
LVOUT
20mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
LVOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
ILOAD
250mA/DIV
ILOAD
50mA/DIV
400µs/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 100mA TO 300mA
3541 G19
Linear Regulator to VLDO
Transient Step, Load = 30mA
LVOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
ILOAD
50mA/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 1mA
40µs/DIV
VLDO to Linear Regulator
Transient Step, Load = 1mA
3541 G20
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 30mA
40µs/DIV
3541 G21
VLDO to Linear Regulator
Transient Step, Load = 30mA
LVOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
LVOUT
10mV/DIV
AC COUPLED
ILOAD
50mA/DIV
ILOAD
50mA/DIV
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 1mA
40µs/DIV
3541 G22
VIN = 3.6V
LVOUT = 1.5V
ILOAD = 30mA
40µs/DIV
3541 G23
3541fa
LTC3541
PI FU CTIO S
U
U
U
VIN (Pin 1): Main Supply Pin. This pin must be closely
decoupled to GND with a 10µF or greater capacitor.
ENBUCK (Pin 2): Buck Enable Pin. This pin enables the
buck regulator when driven to a logic high.
BUCKFB (Pin 3): Buck Regulator Feedback Pin. This pin
receives the buck regulator’s feedback voltage from an
external resistive divider.
LFB (Pin 4): VLDO/Linear Regulator Feedback Pin. This
pin receives either the VLDO or linear regulator’s feedback
voltage from an external resistive divider.
LVOUT (Pin 5): VLDO/Linear Regulator Output Pin. This
pin provides the regulated output voltage from the VLDO
or linear regulator.
LVIN (Pin 6): VLDO/Linear Regulator Input Supply Pin.
This pin provides the input supply voltage for the VLDO
power FET.
GND (Pin 7): Analog Ground Pin.
MODE (Pin 8): Buck Mode Selection Pin. This pin enables
buck Pulse-Skip operation when driven to a logic high
and enables buck Burst Mode operation when driven to
a logic low.
ENVLDO (Pin 9): VLDO/Linear Regulator Enable Pin.
When driven to a logic high, this pin enables the linear
regulator when the ENBUCK pin is driven to a logic low,
and enables the VLDO when the ENBUCK pin is driven to
a logic high.
SW (Pin 10): Switch Node Pin. This pin connects the
internal main and synchronous power MOSFET switches
to the external inductor for the buck regulator.
Exposed Pad (Pin 11): Ground Pin. This pin must be
soldered to the PCB to provide both electrical contact to
ground and good thermal contact to the PCB.
Note: Table 1 details the truth table for the control pins
of the LTC3541.
Table 1. LTC3541 Control Pin Truth Table
PIN NAME
OPERATIONAL DESCRIPTION
ENBUCK
ENVLDO
MODE
0
0
X
LTC3541 Powered Down
0
1
X
Buck Powered Down, VLDO Regulator
Powered Down, Linear Regulator
Enabled
1
0
0
Buck Enabled, VLDO Regulator Powered
Down, Linear Regulator Powered Down, Burst Mode Operation
1
0
1
Buck Enabled, VLDO Regulator Powered
Down, Linear Regulator Powered Down, Pulse-Skip Mode Operation
1
1
0
Buck Enabled, VLDO Regulator Enabled,
Linear Regulator Powered Down, Burst
Mode Operation
1
1
1
Buck Enabled, VLDO Regulator Enabled,
Linear Regulator Powered Down, PulseSkip Mode Operation
3541fa
LTC3541
FU CTIO AL BLOCK DIAGRA
W
U
U
2.2µH
IOUT(BUCK) = 500mA
VIN(MIN) ≥ LVOUT + 1.4V
10µF
10
1
SW
VIN
500mA BUCK
VIN
SW
22pF
REF
FB
GND
BUCKFB
LVIN
VLDO/LINEAR REG
2
9
8
REF
ENBUCK
ENVLDO
MODE
3
PGND
REF
CONTROL
LOGIC
LFB
CNTRL
VIN
6
LVIN
LVOUT(MAX) < VIN – 1.4V
IOUT = 300mA (VLDO REG)
IOUT = 30mA (LINEAR REG)
+
–
LVOUT
5
GND
2.2µF
LFB
GND
PGND
7
11
4
3541 F01
Figure 1. LTC3541 Functional Block Diagram
U
OPERATIO
The LTC3541 contains a high efficiency synchronous
buck converter, a very low dropout regulator (VLDO) and
a linear regulator. It can be used to provide up to two
output voltages from a single input voltage making the
LTC3541 ideal for applications with limited board space.
The combination and configuration of these major blocks
within the LTC3541 is determined by way of the control
pins ENBUCK and ENVLDO as defined in Table 1.
With the ENBUCK pin driven to a logic high and ENVLDO
driven to a logic low, the LTC3541 enables the buck converter to efficiently reduce the voltage provided at the VIN
input pin to an output voltage which is set by an external
feedback resistor network. The buck regulator can be configured for Pulse-Skip or Burst Mode operation by driving
the MODE pin to a logic high or logic low respectively. The
buck regulator is capable of providing a maximum output
current of 500mA, which must be taken into consideration
when using the buck regulator to provide the power for
both the VLDO and for external loads.
With the ENBUCK pin driven to a logic low and ENVLDO
driven to a logic high, the LTC3541 enables the linear
regulator, providing a low noise regulated output voltage
at the LVOUT pin while drawing minimal quiescent current
from the VIN input pin. This feature allows output voltage
LVOUT to be brought into regulation without the presence
of the LVIN voltage.
With the ENBUCK and ENVLDO pins both driven to a
logic high, the LTC3541 enables the high efficiency buck
converter and VLDO regulator, providing dual output operation from a single input voltage. When configured in this
manner, the LTC3541’s auto start-up sequencing feature
will bring the buck output into regulation in a controlled
manner prior to enabling the VLDO regulator without the
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need for external pin control. A detailed discussion of the
transitions between the VLDO and linear regulator can be
found in the VLDO/Linear Regulator Loop section.
Buck Regulator Control Loop
The LTC3541 internal buck regulator uses a constant frequency, current mode, step-down architecture. Both the
main (top, P-channel MOSFET) and synchronous (bottom,
N-channel MOSFET) switches are internal. During normal
operation, the internal main switch is turned on at the beginning of each clock cycle provided the internal feedback
voltage to the buck is less than the reference voltage. The
current into the inductor provided to the load increases
until the current limit is reached. Once the current limit is
reached the main switch turns off and the energy stored
in the inductor flows through the bottom synchronous
switch into the load until the next clock cycle.
When the MODE pin is driven to a logic high the LTC3541
operates in Pulse-Skip mode for low output voltage ripple.
In this mode, the LTC3541 continues to switch at a constant
frequency down to very low currents, where it will begin
skipping pulses used to control the main (top) switch to
maintain the proper average inductor current.
If the input supply voltage is decreased to a value approaching the output voltage, the duty cycle of the buck
is increased toward maximum on-time and 100% duty
cycle. The output voltage will then be determined by the
input voltage minus the voltage drop across the main
switch and the inductor.
VLDO/Linear Regulator Loop
The peak inductor current is determined by comparing the
buck feedback signal to an internal 0.8V reference. When
the load current increases, the output of the buck and
hence the buck feedback signal decrease. This decrease
causes the peak inductor current to increase until the average inductor current matches the load current. While the
main switch is off, the synchronous switch is turned on
until either the inductor current starts to reverse direction
or the beginning of a new clock cycle.
In the LTC3541, the VLDO and linear regulator loops consist
of an amplifier and N-channel MOSFET output stages that,
when connected with the proper external components,
will servo the output to maintain a regulator output voltage, LVOUT. The internal reference voltage provided to the
amplifier is 0.4V allowing for a wide range of output voltages. Loop configurations enabling the VLDO or the linear
regulator are stable with an output capacitance as low as
2.2µF and as high as 100µF. Both the VLDO and the linear
regulators are capable of operating with an input voltage,
VIN, as low as 2.7V, but are subject to the constraint that
VIN must be greater than LVOUT + 1.4V.
When the MODE pin is driven to a logic low, the LTC3541
buck regulator operates in Burst Mode operation for high
efficiency. In this mode, the main switch operates based
upon load demand. In Burst Mode operation the peak
inductor current is set to a fixed value, where each burst
event can last from a few clock cycles at light loads to
nearly continuous cycling at moderate loads. Between
burst events the main switch and any unneeded circuitry
are turned off, reducing the quiescent current. In this sleep
state, the load is being supplied solely from the output
capacitor. As the output voltage droops, an internal error
amplifier’s output rises until a wake threshold is reached
causing the main switch to again turn on. This process
repeats at a rate that is dependant upon the load current
demand.
The VLDO is designed to provide up to 300mA of output
current at a very low LVIN to LVOUT voltage. This allows
a clean, secondary, analog supply voltage to be provided
with a minimum drop in efficiency. The VLDO is provided
with thermal protection that is designed to disable the
VLDO function when the output, pass transistor’s junction
temperature reaches approximately 160°C. In addition to
thermal protection, short-circuit detection is provided to
disable the VLDO function when a short-circuit condition is
sensed. This circuit is designed such that an output current
of approximately 1A can be provided before this circuit
will trigger. As detailed in the Electrical Characteristics, the
VLDO regulator will be out of regulation when this event
occurs. Both the thermal and short-circuit faults when
detected are treated as catastrophic fault conditions. The
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LTC3541 will be reset upon the detection of either event.
The N-channel MOSFET incorporated in the VLDO has its
drain connected to the LVIN pin as shown in Figure 1. To
ensure reliable operation, the LVIN voltage must be stable
before the VLDO is enabled. For the case where the voltage on the LVIN pin is supplied by the buck regulator, the
internal power supply sequencing logic assures voltages
are applied in the appropriate manner. For the case where
an external supply is used to power the LVIN pin, the voltage on the LVIN pin must be stable before the ENVLDO pin
is brought from a low to a high. Further, the external LVIN
voltage must be reduced in conjunction with VIN whenever
VIN is pulled low or removed.
The linear regulator is designed to provide a lower output
current (30mA) than that available from the VLDO. The
linear regulator’s output pass transistor has its drain tied
to the VIN rail. This allows the linear regulator to be turned
on prior to, and independent of, the buck regulator which
ordinarily drives the VLDO. The linear regulator is provided
with thermal protection that is designed to disable the
linear regulator function when the output pass transistor’s
junction temperature reaches approximately 160°C. In
addition to thermal protection, short-circuit detection is
provided to disable the linear regulator function when a
short-circuit condition is sensed. This circuit is designed
such that an output current of approximately 120mA can
be provided before this circuit will trigger. As detailed in
the Electrical Characteristics, the linear regulator will be
out of regulation when this event occurs. Both the thermal
and short-circuit faults are treated as catastrophic fault
conditions. The LTC3541 will be reset upon the detection
of either event.
The N-channel MOSFET incorporated in the linear regulator
has its drain connected to the VIN pin as shown in Figure 1.
The size of this MOSFET and its associated power bussing
is designed to accommodate 30mA of DC current. Currents
above this can be supported for short periods as stipulated
in the Absolute Maximum Ratings section.
Transitioning from linear regulator mode to VLDO mode,
accomplished by bringing ENBUCK from a logic low to a
logic high while ENVLDO is a logic high, is designed to be
as seamless and transient free as possible. The precise
transient response of LVOUT due to this transition is a
function of COUT and the load current. Waveforms given
in the Typical Performance Characeristics show typical
transient responses using the minimum COUT of 2.2µF and
load currents of 1mA and 30mA respectively. Generally, the
amplitude of any transients present will decrease as COUT
is increased. To ensure reliable operation and adherence
to the load regulation limits presented in the Electrical
Characteristics table, the load current must not exceed
the linear regulator IOUT limit of 30mA within 20ms after
ENBUCK has transitioned to a logic high. The 300mA IOUT
limit of VLDO applies thereafter. Further, for configurations
that do not use the LTC3541’s buck regulator to provide
the VLDO input voltage (LVIN), the user must ensure a
stable LVIN voltage is present no less than 1ms prior to
ENBUCK transitioning to a logic high.
In a similar manner, transitioning from VLDO mode to
linear regulator mode, accomplished by bringing ENBUCK
from a high low to a logic low while ENVLDO is a logic
high, is designed to be as seamless and transient free as
possible. Again, the precise transient response of LVOUT
due to this transition is a function of COUT and the load
current. Waveforms given in the Typical Performance
Characeristics show typical transient responses using
the minimum COUT of 2.2µF and load currents of 1mA
and 30mA respectively. Generally, the amplitude of any
transients present will decrease as COUT is increased.
To ensure reliable operation and adherence to the load
regulation limits presented in the Electrical Characterstics
table, the load current must not exceed the linear regulator
IOUT limit of 30mA 1ms prior to ENBUCK transitioning to a
logic low and thereafer. Further, for configurations that do
not use the LTC3541’s buck regulator to provide the VLDO
input voltage (LVIN), the user must continue to ensure a
stable LVIN voltage no less than 1ms after ENBUCK has
transitioned to a logic low.
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The basic LTC3541 application circuit is shown on the first
page of this data sheet. External component selection is
driven by the load requirement and requires the selection
of L, followed by CIN, COUT, and feedback resistor values
for the buck and the selection of the output capacitor and
feedback values for the VLDO and linear regulator.
BUCK Regulator
Inductor Selection
For most applications, the appropriate inductor value will
be in the range of 1.5µH to 3.3µH with 2.2µH the most
commonly used. The exact inductor value is chosen
largely based on the desired ripple current and burst
ripple performance. Generally, large value inductors reduce ripple current, and conversely, small value inductors
produce higher ripple current. Higher VIN or VOUT may
also increase the ripple current as shown in Equation 1.
A reasonable starting point for setting ripple current is
ΔIL = 200mA (40% of 500mA).
ΔIL =
 V 
1
VOUT  1− OUT 
VIN 
( f )(L )

(1)
The DC current rating of the inductor should be at least
equal to the maximum load current plus half the ripple
current to prevent core saturation. Thus, a 600mA rated
inductor should be enough for most applications (500mA
+ 100mA). For better efficiency, choose a low DC resistance inductor.
Inductor Core Selection
Different core materials and shapes will change the
size/current and price/current relationship of an inductor. Toroid or shielded pot cores in ferrite or permalloy
materials are small and don’t radiate much energy, but
generally cost more than powdered iron core inductors
with similar electrical characteristics. The choice of which
style inductor to use often depends more on the price vs
size requirement and any radiated field/EMI requirements
rather than what the LTC3541 requires to operate. Table 2
shows some typical surface mount inductors that work
well in LTC3541 applications.
Table 2. Representative Surface Mount Inductors
PART
NUMBER
VALUE
(µH)
DCR
MAX DC
(Ω MAX) CURRENT (A)
SIZE
W × L × H (mm3)
Sumida
CDRH3D23
1.0
1.5
2.2
3.3
0.025
0.029
0.038
0.048
2.0
1.5
1.3
1.1
3.9 × 3.9 × 2.4
Sumida
CMD4D06
2.2
3.3
0.116
0.174
0.950
0.770
3.5 × 4.3 × 0.8
Coilcraft
ME3220
1.0
1.5
2.2
3.3
0.058
0.068
0.104
0.138
2.7
2.2
1.0
1.3
2.5 × 3.2 × 2.0
Murata
LQH3C
1.0
2.2
0.060
0.097
1.00
0.79
2.5 × 3.2 × 2.0
Sumida
CDRH2D11/HP
1.5
2.2
0.06
0.10
1.00
0.72
3.2 × 3.2 × 1.2
CIN and COUT Selection
In continuous mode, the source current of the top MOSFET
is a square wave of duty cycle VOUT/VIN. To prevent large
voltage transients, a low ESR input capacitor sized for the
maximum RMS current must be used. The maximum RMS
capacitor current is given by:
cIN required IRMS ≅ IOMAX
 VOUT ( VIN − VOUT ) 
VIN
1/22
This formula has a maximum at VIN = 2VOUT, where
IRMS = IOUT/2. This simple worst-case condition is commonly used for design. Note that the capacitor manufacturer’s
ripple current ratings are often based on 2000 hours of
life. This makes it advisable to further derate the capacitor or choose a capacitor rated at a higher temperature
than required. Always consult the manufacturer with any
question regarding proper capacitor choice.
The selection of COUT for the buck regulator is driven by
the desired buck loop transient response, required effective
series resistance (ESR) and burst ripple performance.
The LTC3541 minimizes the required number of external
components by providing internal loop compensation
for the buck regulator loop. Loop stability, transient response and burst performance can be tailored by choice
of output capacitance. For many applications, desirable
stability, transient response and ripple performance can
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be obtained by choosing an output capacitor value of 10µF
to 22µF. Typically, once the ESR requirement for COUT has
been met, the RMS current rating generally far exceeds
the IRIPPLE(P-P) requirement. The output ripple ΔVOUT is
determined by:

1
ΔVOUT ≅ ΔIL  ESR +
8 fc

OUT


where f = operating frequency, COUT = output capacitance
and ΔIL = ripple current in the inductor. For a fixed output
voltage, the output ripple is highest at maximum input
voltage since ΔIL increases with input voltage.
Aluminum electrolytic and dry tantalum capacitors are both
available in surface mount configurations. In the case of
tantalum, it is critical that the capacitors are surge tested
for use in switching power supplies. An excellent choice is
the AVX TPS series of surface mount tantalum. These are
specially constructed and tested for low ESR so they give
the lowest ESR for a given volume. Other capacitor types
include Sanyo POSCAP, Kemet T510 and T495 series, and
Sprague 593D and 595D series. Consult the manufacturer
for other specific recommendations.
Using Ceramic Input and Output Capacitors
High value, low cost ceramic capacitors are now becoming
available in smaller case sizes. Their high ripple current,
high voltage rating, and low ESR make them ideal for
switching regulator applications. Since the LTC3541’s
control loop does not depend on the output capacitor’s
ESR for stable operation, ceramic capacitors can be used
freely to achieve very low output ripple and small circuit
size.
However, care must be taken when ceramic capacitors
are used at the input and the output. When a ceramic
capacitor is used at the input and the power is supplied
by a wall adapter through long wires, a load step at the
output can induce ringing at the input, VIN. At best, this
ringing can couple to the output and be mistaken as loop
instability. At worst, a sudden inrush of current through
the long wires can potentially cause a voltage spike at VIN,
large enough to damage the part.
When choosing the input and output ceramic capacitors,
choose the X5R or X7R dielectric formulations. These
dielectrics have the best temperature and voltage characteristics of all the ceramics for a given value and size.
Output Voltage Programming
The output voltage is set by tying BUCKFB to a resistive
divider according to the following formula:
 R2 
VOUT = 0.8 V  1+ 
 R1
Since the impedance at the BUCKFB pin is dependant upon
the resistor divider network used, and phase shift due to
this impedance directly impacts the transient response of
the buck, R1 should be chosen <125k. In addition, stray
capacitance at this pin should be minimized (<5pF) to prevent excessive phase shift. Finally, special attention should
be given to any stray capacitances that can couple external
signals onto the BUCKFB pin producing undesirable output
ripple. For optimum performance connect the BUCKFB
pin to R1 and R2 with a short PCB trace and minimize all
other stray capacitance to the BUCKFB pin.
The external resistive divider is connected to the output,
allowing remote voltage sensing as shown in Figure 6.
Checking Transient Response
The regulator loop response can be checked by looking
at the load transient response. Switching regulators take
several cycles to respond to a step in load current. When
a load step occurs, VOUT immediately shifts by an amount
equal to (ΔILOAD • ESR), where ESR is the effective series
0.8V ≤ VOUT ≤ 5V
R2
BUcKFB
LTc3541
R1
GND
3541 F06
Figure 6. Setting the LTC3541 Output Voltage
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resistance of COUT. ΔILOAD also begins to charge or discharge COUT, which generates a feedback error signal. The
regulator loop then acts to return VOUT to its steady-state
value. During this recovery time VOUT can be monitored
for overshoot or ringing that would indicate a stability
problem. For a detailed explanation of switching control
loop theory see Application Note 76.
A second, more severe transient is caused by switching
in loads with large (>1µF) supply bypass capacitors. The
discharged bypass capacitors are effectively put in parallel with COUT, causing a rapid drop in VOUT. No regulator
can deliver enough current to prevent this problem if the
load switch resistance is low and it is driven quickly. The
only solution is to limit the rise time of the switch drive
so that the load rise time is limited to approximately
(25 • CLOAD). Thus, a 10µF capacitor charging to 3.3V
would require a 250µs rise time, limiting the charging
current to about 130mA.
VLDO/Linear regulator
Adjustable Output Voltage
The LTC3541 LVOUT output voltage is set by the ratio of two
external resistors as shown in Figure 7. The device servos
LVOUT to maintain the LFB pin voltage at 0.4V (referenced
to ground). Thus, the current in R1 is equal to 0.4V/R1.
For good transient response, stability, and accuracy, the
current in R1 should be at least 2µA, thus the value of
R1 should be no greater than 200k. The current in R2 is
the current in R1 plus the LFB pin bias current. Since the
LFB pin bias current is typically <10nA, it can be ignored
in the output voltage calculation. The output voltage can
be calculated using the formula in Figure 8. Note that in
shutdown the output is turned off and the divider current
will be zero once COUT is discharged.
The LTC3541 VLDO and linear regulator loops operate
at a relatively high gain of –3.5µV/mA and –3.4µV/mA
respectively, referred to the LFB input. Thus, a load current change of 1mA to 300mA produces a 1.05mV drop
at the LFB input for the VLDO and a load current change
of 1mA to 30mA produces a 0.1mV drop at the LFB input
LVOUT
LTc3541
R2
LFB
( )
VOUT = 0.4V 1 + R2
R1
cOUT
R1
GND
3541 F07
Figure 7. Programming the LTC3541
for the linear regulator. To calculate the change referred
to the output simply multiply by the gain of the feedback
network (i.e., 1 + R2/R1). For example, to program the
output for 1.2V choose R2/R1 = 2. In this example, an
output current change of 1mA to 300mA produces 1.05mV
• (1 + 2) = 3.15mV drop at the output.
Since the LFB pin is relatively high impedance (depending
on the resistor divider used), stray capacitance at this pin
should be minimized (<10pF) to prevent phase shift in the
error amplifier loop. Additionally, special attention should
be given to any stray capacitances that can couple external
signals onto the LFB pin producing undesirable output
ripple. For optimum performance connect the LFB pin to
R1 and R2 with a short PCB trace and minimize all other
stray capacitance to the LFB pin.
Output Capacitance and Transient Response
The LTC3541 is designed to be stable with a wide range of
ceramic output capacitors. The ESR of the output capacitor affects stability, most notably with small capacitors.
A minimum output capacitor of 2.2µF with an ESR of
0.05Ω or less is recommended to ensure stability. The
LTC3541 VLDO is a micropower device and output transient response will be a function of output capacitance.
Larger values of output capacitance decrease the peak
deviations and provide improved transient response for
larger load current changes. Note that bypass capacitors
used to decouple individual components powered by the
LTC3541 will increase the effective output capacitor value.
High ESR tantalum and electrolytic capacitors may be used,
but a low ESR ceramic capacitor must be in parallel at the
output. There is no minimum ESR or maximum capacitor
size requirement.
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Extra consideration must be given to the use of ceramic
capacitors. Ceramic capacitors are manufactured with a
variety of dielectrics, each with different behavior across
temperature and applied voltage. The most common
dielectrics used are Z5U, Y5V, X5R and X7R. The Z5U
and Y5V dielectrics are good for providing high capacitances in a small package, but exhibit large voltage and
temperature coefficients as shown in Figures 8 and 9.
When used with a 2V regulator, a 1µF Y5V capacitor can
lose as much as 75% of its initial capacitance over the
operating temperature range. The X5R and X7R dielectrics
result in more stable characteristics and are usually more
suitable for use as the output capacitor. The X7R type has
better stability across temperature, while the X5R is less
20
BOTH cAPAcITORS ARE 1µF,
10V, 0603 cASE SIZE
cHANGE IN VALUE (%)
0
X5R
–20
–40
Y5V
–60
–80
–100
0
2
6
4
Dc BIAS VOLTAGE (V)
8
10
3541 F08
Figure 8. Change in Capacitor vs Bias Voltage
20
cHANGE IN VALUE (%)
0
X5R
–20
Y5V
–40
–60
–80
BOTH cAPAcITORS ARE 1µF,
10V, 0603 cASE SIZE
–100
–50
0
25
50
–25
TEMPERATURE (°c)
75
3541 F09
Figure 9. Change in Capacitor vs Temperature
expensive and is available in higher values. In all cases,
the output capacitance should never drop below 1µF or
instability or degraded performance may occur.
EFFICIENCY CONSIDERATIONS
Generally, the efficiency of a regulator is equal to the output power divided by the input power times 100%. It is
often useful to analyze individual loss terms to determine
which terms are limiting efficiency and what if any change
would yield the greatest improvement. Efficiency can be
expressed as:
Efficiency = 100% – (L1 + L2 + L3 + ...)
where L1, L2, etc. are the individual loss terms as a percentage of input power.
Although all dissipative elements in the circuit produce
losses, three main sources typically account for the majority
of the losses in the LTC3541 circuits: VIN quiescent current,
I2R losses and loss across VLDO output device. When
operating with both the buck and VLDO active (ENBUCK
and ENVLDO equal to logic high), VIN quiescent current
loss and loss across the VLDO output device dominate
the efficiency loss at low load currents, whereas the I2R
loss and loss across the VLDO output device dominate
the efficiency loss at medium to high load currents. At
low load currents with the part operating with the linear
regulator (ENBUCK equal to logic low, ENVLDO equal to
logic high), efficiency is typically dominated by the loss
across the linear regulator output device and VIN quiescent
current. In a typical efficiency plot, the efficiency curve at
very low load currents can be misleading since the actual
power lost is of little consequence.
1. The VIN quiescent current loss in the buck is due to two
components: the DC bias current as given in the Electrical
Characteristics and the internal main switch and synchronous switch gate charge currents. The gate charge current
results from switching the gate capacitance of the internal
power switches. Each time the gate is switched from high
to low to high again, a packet of charge, dQ, moves from
VIN to ground. The resulting dQ/dt is the current out of
VIN that is typically larger than the DC bias current and
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proportional to frequency. Both the DC bias and gate charge
losses are proportional to VIN and thus their effects will
be more pronounced at higher supply voltages.
2. I2R losses are calculated from the resistances of the
internal switches, RSW, and external inductor RL. In continuous mode, the average output current flowing through
inductor L is “chopped” between the main switch and the
synchronous switch. Thus, the series resistance looking
into the SW pin is a function of both top and bottom
MOSFET RDS(ON) and the duty cycle (DC) as follows:
For surface mount devices, heat sinking is accomplished
by using the heat-spreading capabilities of the PC board
and its copper traces. Copper board stiffeners and plated
through holes can also be used to spread the heat generated by power devices.
To avoid the LTC3541 exceeding the maximum junction
temperature, some thermal analysis is required. The goal
of the thermal analysis is to determine whether the power
dissipated exceeds the maximum junction temperature of
the part. The temperature rise is given by:
RSW = (RDS(ON)TOP)(DC) + (RDS(ON)BOT)(1 – DC)
TR = PD • qJA
The RDS(ON) for both the top and bottom MOSFETs can
be obtained from the Typical Performance Characteristics
curves. Thus, to obtain I2R losses, simply add RSW to
RL and multiply the result by the square of the average
output current.
where PD is the power dissipated by the regulator and qJA
is the thermal resistance from the junction of the die to
the ambient temperature.
3. Losses in the VLDO/linear regulator are due to the DC bias
currents as given in the Electrical Characteristics and to the
(VIN – VOUT) voltage drop across the internal output device
transistor.
Other losses when the buck and VLDO are in operation
(ENBUCK and ENVLDO equal logic high), including CIN
and COUT ESR dissipative losses and inductor core losses,
generally account for less than 2% total additional loss.
THERMAL CONSIDERATIONS
The LTC3541 requires the package backplane metal (GND
pin) to be well soldered to the PC board. This gives the
DFN package exceptional thermal properties. The power
handling capability of the device will be limited by the
maximum rated junction temperature of 125°C. The
LTC3541 has internal thermal limiting designed to protect
the device during momentary overload conditions. For
continuous normal conditions, the maximum junction
temperature rating of 125°C must not be exceeded. It is
important to give careful consideration to all sources of
thermal resistance from junction to ambient. Additional
heat sources mounted nearby must also be considered.
The junction temperature, TJ, is given by:
TJ = TA + TR
where TA is the ambient temperature.
As an example, consider the LTC3541 with an input voltage
VIN of 2.9V, an LVIN voltage of 1.8V, an LVOUT voltage of
1.5V, a load current of 200mA for the buck, a load current of 300mA for the VLDO and an ambient temperature
of 85°C. From the typical performance graph of switch
resistance, the RDS(ON) of the P-channel switch at 85°C is
approximately 0.25Ω.The RDS(ON) of the N-channel switch
is approximately 0.4Ω. Therefore, power dissipated by the
part is approximately:
PD = (ILOADBUCK)2 • RSW + (ILOADVLDO) •
(LVIN – LVOUT) = 167mW
For the 3mm × 3mm DFN package, the qJA is 43°C/W.
Thus, the junction temperature of the regulator is:
TJ = 85°C + (0.167)(43) = 92°C
which is well below the maximum junction temperature
of 125°C.
Note that at higher supply voltages, the junction temperature is lower due to reduced switch resistance RDS(ON).
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PC BOARD LAYOUT CHECKLIST
When laying out the printed circuit board, the following
checklist should be used to ensure proper operation of
the LTC3541. Check the following in your layout:
1. The power traces, consisting of the GND trace, the SW
trace and the VIN trace should be kept short, direct and
wide.
2. Does the LFB pin connect directly to the feedback resistors? The resistive divider R1/R2 must be connected
between the (+) plate of COUT and ground.
ing up to 0.3A of current. With this information we can
calculate L using Equation 2:
L=
 V 
1
VOUT  1− OUT 
VIN  ( f )( ΔIL )

(2)
Substituting VOUT = 1.8V, VIN = 3.6V (typ), ΔIL = 0.2A and
f = 2.25MHz in Equation 3 gives:
L=
1.8 V
 1.8 V 
1−
= 2 µH
2.25MHz(200mA)  3.6 V 
(3)
3. Does the (+) plate of CIN connect to VIN as closely as
possible? This capacitor provides the AC current to the
internal power MOSFETs.
A 2.2µH inductor works well for this application. For best
efficiency choose a 600mA or greater inductor with less
than 0.2Ω series resistance.
4. Keep the switching node, SW, away from the sensitive
LFB node.
CIN will require an RMS current rating of at least 0.25A =
ILOAD(MAX)/2 at temperature . COUT for the buck is chosen
as 22µF with an ESR of less than 0.2Ω. In most cases, a
ceramic capacitor will satisfy this requirement.
5. Keep the (–) plates of CIN and COUT as close as possible.
DESIGN EXAMPLE
As a design example, assume the LTC3541 is used in
a single lithium-ion battery powered cellular phone application. The VIN will be operating from a maximum of
4.2V down to about 3V. The load current requirement is
a maximum of 0.5A for the buck output but most of the
time it will be in standby mode, requiring only 2mA. Efficiency at both low and high load currents is important.
The output voltage for the buck is 1.8V. The requirement
for the output voltage of the VLDO is 1.5V while provid-
For the feedback resistors of the buck, choose R1 = 80k.
R2 can then be calculated from Equation 4 to be:
V

R2 =  OUT − 1 R1= 100k
 0.8

(4)
For the feedback resistors of the VLDO, choose R1 = 200k.
R2 can then be calculated from Equation 5 to be:
V

R2 =  OUT − 1 R1= 550k
 0.4

COUT for the VLDO is chosen as 2.2µF.
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16
LTC3541
TYPICAL APPLICATIO S
U
Dual Output with Minimal External Components Using Auto Start-Up Sequence,
Buck in Burst Mode Operation for High Efficiency Down to Low Load Currents
VIN
3.2V TO 4.2V
2.2µH
VOUT
2V/DIV
SW
ENVLDO
VIN
MODE
GND
ENBUCK
22pF
VOUT1
2.5V
200mA
BUCKFB
LVIN
10µF
165k
LTC3541
154k
73k
LVOUT
2V/DIV
LFB
576k
LVOUT
PGND
2.2µF
VOUT2
1.8V
300mA
VIN
2V/DIV
IVOUT = 200mA
ILVOUT = 300mA
3541 TA02a
4ms/DIV
3541 TA02b
4ms/DIV
3541 TA03b
Dual Output with Minimal External Components Using Auto Start-Up
Sequence, Buck in Pulse Skip Mode for Low Noise Operation
VIN
3.2V TO 4.2V
2.2µH
VOUT
2V/DIV
SW
ENVLDO
VIN
MODE
ENBUCK
22pF
154k
VOUT1
2.5V
200mA
10µF
LVIN
73k
GND
165k
LTC3541
BUCKFB
LVOUT
2V/DIV
LFB
LVOUT
PGND
576k
2.2µF
3541 TA03a
VOUT2
1.8V
300mA
VIN
2V/DIV
IVOUT = 200mA
ILVOUT = 300mA
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17
LTC3541
TYPICAL APPLICATIO S
U
Dual Output Using Minimal External Components with VOUT2 Controlled by External Logic
Signal, Buck in Burst Mode Operation for High Efficiency Down to Low Load Currents
VIN
3.2V TO 4.2V
2.2µH
VOUT
2V/DIV
SW
ENVLDO
VIN
MODE
ENBUCK
22pF
VOUT1
2.5V
200mA
BUCKFB
10µF
GND
165k
LTC3541
154k
LVIN
LFB
LVOUT
PGND
73k
LVOUT
2V/DIV
576k
2.2µF
VOUT2
1.8V
300mA
VIN
2V/DIV
IVOUT = 200mA
ILVOUT = 300mA
3541 TA04a
4ms/DIV
3541 TA04b
Dual Output Using Minimal External Components with VOUT1 Controlled by External Logic
Signal, Buck in Burst Mode Operation for High Efficiency Down to Low Load Currents
VIN
2.9V TO 4.2V
VOUT
2V/DIV
2.2µH
SW
ENVLDO
VIN
MODE
ENBUCK
22pF
VOUT1
1.8V
200mA
143k
10µF
LVIN
115k
GND
150k
LTC3541
BUCKFB
LVOUT
2V/DIV
LFB
LVOUT
PGND
412k
2.2µF
3541 TA05a
VOUT2
1.5V
300mA
VIN
2V/DIV
IVOUT = 200mA
ILVOUT = 30mA
4ms/DIV
3541 TA05b
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18
LTC3541
PACKAGE DESCRIPTIO
U
DD Package
10-Lead Plastic DFN (3mm × 3mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1699)
0.675 ±0.05
3.50 ±0.05
1.65 ±0.05
2.15 ±0.05 (2 SIDES)
PAcKAGE
OUTLINE
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50
BSc
2.38 ±0.05
(2 SIDES)
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITcH AND DIMENSIONS
R = 0.115
TYP
6
3.00 ±0.10
(4 SIDES)
0.38 ± 0.10
10
1.65 ± 0.10
(2 SIDES)
PIN 1
TOP MARK
(SEE NOTE 6)
5
0.200 REF
1
0.75 ±0.05
0.00 – 0.05
(DD10) DFN 1103
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50 BSc
2.38 ±0.10
(2 SIDES)
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
NOTE:
1. DRAWING TO BE MADE A JEDEc PAcKAGE OUTLINE M0-229 VARIATION OF (WEED-2).
cHEcK THE LTc WEBSITE DATA SHEET FOR cURRENT STATUS OF VARIATION ASSIGNMENT
2. DRAWING NOT TO ScALE
3. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS
4. DIMENSIONS OF EXPOSED PAD ON BOTTOM OF PAcKAGE DO NOT INcLUDE
MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH, IF PRESENT, SHALL NOT EXcEED 0.15mm ON ANY SIDE
5. EXPOSED PAD SHALL BE SOLDER PLATED
6. SHADED AREA IS ONLY A REFERENcE FOR PIN 1 LOcATION ON THE
TOP AND BOTTOM OF PAcKAGE
3541fa
Information furnished by Linear Technology corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representation that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
19
LTC3541
RELATED PARTS
PART NUMBER
DESCRIPTION
COMMENTS
LT 3023
Dual, 2x100mA, Low Noise Micropower LDO
VIN: 1.8V to 20V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.22V, VDO = 0.30V, IQ = 40µA, ISD < 1µA, VOUT = ADJ, DFN, MS Packages, Low Noise < 20µVRMS(P-P), Stable with
1µF Ceramic Capacitors
LT3024
Dual, 100mA/500mA, Low Noise Micropower LDO
VIN: 1.8V to 20V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.22V, VDO = 0.30V, IQ = 60µA, ISD < 1µA, VOUT = ADJ, DFN, TSSOP Packages, Low Noise < 20µVRMS(P-P), Stable with
1µF Ceramic Capacitors
LTC3025
300mA, Micropower VLDO Linear Regulator
VIN: 0.9V to 5.5V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.4V, 2.7V to 5.5V Bias Voltage Required, VDO = 45mV, IQ = 50µA, ISD < 1µA, VOUT = ADJ, DFN Packages, Stable with
1µF Ceramic Capacitors
LTC3407
Dual Synchronous 600mA Synchronous Step-Down
DC/DC Regulator
1.5MHz Constant Frequency Current Mode Operation, VIN from 2.5V to
5.5V, VOUT Down to 0.6V, DFN, MS Packages
LTC3407-2
Dual Synchronous 800mA Synchronous Step-Down
DC/DC Regulator, 2.25MHz
2.25MHz Constant Frequency Current Mode Operation, VIN from 2.5V to
5.5V, VOUT Down to 0.6V, DFN, MS Packages
LTC3445
I2C Controllable Buck Regulator with Two LDOs and
Backup Battery Input
600mA, 1.5MHz Current Mode Buck Regulator, I2C Programmable
VOUT from 0.85V to 1.55V, two 50mA LDOs, Backup Battery Input with
PowerPath Control, QFN Package
LTC3446
Triple Output Step-Down Converter 1A Output Buck,
Two Each 300mA VDLOs
VIN: 2.7V to 5.5V, VOUT(MIN) Buck = 0.8V, VOUT(MIN) VLDO = 0.4VOUT(MIN),
14-Pin DFN Package
LTC3448
600mA (IOUT), High Efficiency, 1.5MHz/2.25MHz
Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with LDO Mode
VIN: 2.7V to 5.5V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.6V, Switches to LDO Mode at ≤3A, DD8, MS8/E Packages
LTC3541-2
High Efficiency Buck plus VLDO Regulator
VIN: 2.9V to 5.5V, VOUT(BUCK) = 1.875V, VOUT(VLDO) = 1.5V, 3mm × 3mm
10-Pin DFN Package
LTC3541-3
High Efficiency Buck plus VLDO Regulator
VIN: 3V to 5.5V, VOUT(BUCK) = 1.8V, VOUT(VLDO) = 1.575V, 3mm × 3mm 10-Pin DFN Package
LTC3547
Dual 300mA (IOUT), 2.25MHz, Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Converter
95% Efficiency, VIN: 2.5V to 5.5V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.6V, IQ = 40µA, ISD < 1µA,
8-Pin DFN Package
®
LTC3548/LTC3548-1 Dual 800mA/400mA (IOUT), 2.25MHz, Synchronous Step-Down DC/DC Converter
LTC3548-2
95% Efficiency, VIN: 2.5V to 5.5V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.6V, IQ = 40µA, ISD < 1µA,
DFN and 10-Pin MS Packages
LTC3700
VIN from 2.65V to 9.8V, Constant Frequency 550kHz Operation
Step-Down DC/DC Controller with LDO Regulator
PowerPath is a trademark of Linear Technology Corporation.
3541fa
20 Linear Technology Corporation
LT 0407 REV A • PRINTED IN USA
1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
(408) 432-1900 ● FAX: (408) 434-0507
●
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 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2006