Low Voltage Input DC/DC Controller Drives N-Channel MOSFETs, Delivering up to 20A

LTC News for Immediate Release
For more information, tel. 408-432-1900
Doug Dickinson, Media Relations Mgr., ext. 2233
John Hamburger, Dir., Mkting Comm., ext. 2419
www.linear.com
Low Voltage Input DC/DC Controller Drives N-Channel MOSFETs,
Delivering up to 20A
MILPITAS, CA – July 27, 2006 – Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC3822, a
2.75V to 4.5V input synchronous step-down DC/DC controller that drives N-channel MOSFETs
without requiring an external supply for gate drive. In addition, the LTC3822 eliminates the need
for a sense resistor by using MOSFET RDS(ON) sensing current, which improves efficiency and
reduces solution cost. Although the LTC3822 drives N-channel MOSFETs, it is capable of
operation at 99% duty cycle for very low dropout regulation. An adjustable operating frequency
from 300kHz to 750kHz allows designers to size their systems, minimize noise interference and
optimize efficiency. Applications include point-of-load conversion from 3.3VIN and portable
devices with single Li-Ion batteries for up to 20A load current requirements.
The LTC3822 provides excellent line and load regulation as well as fast transient
response with its constant frequency current mode operation. The output is adjustable from 0.6V
to 99% of the input voltage. Internal soft-start circuitry guarantees controlled startup to minimize
inrush current and ensure proper regulation. The LTC3822 consumes only 340uA during
operation and only 7.5uA in shutdown.
The LTC3822 is offered in two packages a 10-lead MSOP and a smaller 3mm x 3mm
DFN. It is rated for operation from -40ºC to 85ºC. 1,000-piece pricing is set at $2.10 each.
Input DC/DC Controller Drives N-Channel MOSFETs,
Delivering up to 20A
Page 2
Photo Caption: 1.8V/8A High Efficiency Step Down Converter
Summary of Features: LTC3822
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Low VIN Operation: 2.75V to 4.5V
No Sense Resistor Required
Current Mode Operation
Drives N-Channel MOSFETs
99% Duty Cycle (Low Dropout Operation)
Supplies Up to 20A
About Linear Technology
Linear Technology Corporation, a manufacturer of high performance linear integrated circuits,
was founded in 1981, became a public company in 1986 and joined the S&P 500 index of major
public companies in 2000. Linear Technology products include high performance amplifiers,
comparators, voltage references, monolithic filters, linear regulators, DC-DC converters, battery
chargers, data converters, communications interface circuits, RF signal conditioning circuits, and
many other analog functions. Applications for Linear Technology’s high performance circuits
include telecommunications, cellular telephones, networking products such as optical switches,
notebook and desktop computers, computer peripherals, video/multimedia, industrial
instrumentation, security monitoring devices, high-end consumer products such as digital
cameras and MP3 players, complex medical devices, automotive electronics, factory automation,
process control, and military and space systems. For more information, visit www.linear.com
Contact:
Doug Dickinson, Media Relations Manager
Linear Technology Corporation
1630 McCarthy Boulevard
Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
[email protected]
408-432-1900
READER SERVICE: Call toll-free 1-800-4-LINEAR (for literature only), or go to the company’s web site:
http://www.linear.com
Note: LT, LTC, LTM and
are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corp.