LINER LT3761

LT3954
40VIN LED Converter with
Internal PWM Generator
FEATURES
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DESCRIPTION
3000:1 True Color PWM™ Dimming for LEDs
Wide VIN Range: 4.5V to 40V
Rail-to-Rail Current Sense Range: 0V to 40V
Internal 40V/5A Switch
Programmable PWM Dimming Signal Generator
Constant Current (±3%) and Constant-Voltage
(±2%) Regulation
Accurate Analog Dimming
Drives LEDs in Boost, SEPIC, CUK, Buck Mode,
Buck-Boost Mode, or Flyback Configuration
Output Short-Circuit Protected Boost
Open LED Protection and Reporting
Adjustable Switching Frequency: 100kHz to 1MHz
Programmable VIN UVLO with Hysteresis
C/10 Indication for Battery Chargers
Low Shutdown Current: <1µA
Thermally Enhanced 5mm × 6mm QFN Package
The LT®3954 is a DC/DC converter designed to operate as
a constant-current source and constant-voltage regulator.
It features an internal low side N-channel MOSFET rated
for 40V/5A. The LT3954 is ideally suited for driving high
current LEDs, but also has features to make it suitable
for charging batteries and supercapacitors. The fixed
frequency, current mode architecture results in stable
operation over a wide range of supply and output voltages.
A voltage feedback pin serves as the input for several
LED protection features, and also makes it possible for
the converter to operate as a constant-voltage source.
A frequency adjust pin allows the user to program the
frequency from 100kHz to 1MHz to optimize efficiency,
performance or external component size.
The LT3954 senses output current at the high side or at
the low side of the load. The internal PWM generator can
be configured to self-oscillate at fixed frequency with duty
ratio programmable from 4% to 96%. When driven by an
external signal, the PWM input provides LED dimming
ratios of up to 3000:1. The CTRL input provides additional
analog dimming capability.
APPLICATIONS
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High Power LEDs
Output Short-Circuit Protected Boost
Battery and SuperCap Chargers
Accurate Current Limited Voltage Regulators
L, LT, LTC, LTM, Linear Technology and the Linear logo are registered trademarks and
True Color PWM is a trademark of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective owners. Protected by U.S. Patents including 7199560, 7321203.
TYPICAL APPLICATION
95% Efficiency 20W Boost LED Driver with Internal PWM Dimming
22µH
VIN
5V TO 30V
4.7µF
499k
VIN
EN/UVLO
147k
LT3954
165k
INTVCC
100k
DIM
124k
10nF
PGND
28.7k
350kHz
5.1k
47nF
300Hz 4.7nF
CTRL
PWM Dimming Waveforms at
Various DIM Voltage Settings
ISP
VREF
1M
4.7µF
×3
SW
0.38Ω
VDIM = 8V
DCPWM = 97.2%
650mA
ISN
1M
FB
VMODE
37.4k
DIM/SS
SYNC
PWM
RT
PWMOUT
VC GND GNDK INTVCC
INTVCC
20W LED STRING
(CURRENT DERATED
FOR VIN < 9V)
VDIM = 3.87V
DCPWM = 50%
ILED
0.65A/DIV
VDIM = 1.47V
DCPWM = 10%
VIN = 24V
VLED = 32V
0.5ms/DIV
3954 TA01b
VDIM = 0V
DCPWM = 2.8%
3954 TA01a
1µF
NOTE: GND, GNDK AND SIGNAL LEVEL COMPONENTS MUST BE CONNECTED EXTERNALLY AS SHOWN.
AN INTERNAL CONNECTION BETWEEN GNDK AND PGND PINS PROVIDES GROUNDING TO THE SUPPLY
3954f
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1
LT3954
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
PIN CONFIGURATION
(Note 1)
VC
CTRL
VREF
PWM
VMODE
DIM/SS
TOP VIEW
RT
VIN, EN/UVLO.............................................................40V
ISP, ISN, SW..............................................................40V
INTVCC....................................................VIN + 0.3V, 9.6V
PWMOUT............................................................ (Note 2)
CTRL, VMODE............................................................15V
FB, PWM, SYNC........................................................9.6V
VC, VREF.......................................................................3V
RT, DIM/SS...............................................................1.5V
PGND, GNDK to GND..............................................±0.5V
Operating Ambient Temperature Range
(Notes 3, 4)............................................. –40°C to 125°C
Maximum Junction Temperature........................... 125°C
Storage Temperature Range................... –65°C to 150°C
36 35 34 33 32 31 30
28 ISP
SYNC 1
27 ISN
EN/UVLO 2
INTVCC 3
37
GND
GND 4
25 FB
24 GND
VIN 6
23 PWMOUT
38
SW
SW 8
SW 9
21 SW
20 SW
NC 10
PGND
PGND
PGND
PGND
PGND
GNDK
12 13 14 15 16 17
UHE PACKAGE
36-LEAD (5mm × 6mm) PLASTIC QFN
θJA = 34°C/W, θJC = 3°C/W
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 37) IS GND, MUST BE SOLDERED TO GND PLANE
EXPOSED PAD (PIN 38) IS SW, MUST BE SOLDERED TO SW PLANE
ORDER INFORMATION
LEAD FREE FINISH
LT3954EUHE#PBF
TAPE AND REEL
LT3954EUHE#TRPBF
PART MARKING*
3954
PACKAGE DESCRIPTION
36-Lead (5mm × 6mm) Plastic QFN
TEMPERATURE RANGE
–40°C to 125°C
LT3954IUHE#PBF
LT3954IUHE#TRPBF
3954
–40°C to 125°C
36-Lead (5mm × 6mm) Plastic QFN
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges. *The temperature grade is identified by a label on the shipping container.
Consult LTC Marketing for information on non-standard lead based finish parts.
For more information on lead free part marking, go to: http://www.linear.com/leadfree/
For more information on tape and reel specifications, go to: http://www.linear.com/tapeandreel/
3954f
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LT3954
ELECTRICAL
CHARACTERISTICS
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN = 24V, EN/UVLO = 24V, CTRL = 2V, PWM = 5V, unless otherwise noted.
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
VIN Minimum Operating Voltage
VIN Tied to INTVCC
VIN Shutdown IQ
EN/UVLO = 0V, PWM = 0V
EN/UVLO = 1.15V, PWM = 0V
VIN Operating IQ (Not Switching)
PWM = 0V
VREF Voltage
–100µA ≤ IVREF ≤ 0µA
VREF Line Regulation
4.5V ≤ VIN ≤ 40V
VREF Pull-Up Current
VREF = 0V
SW Pin Current Limit
SW Pin Leakage
MIN
SW Pin Voltage Drop
ISW = 3A
Current Out of Pin, DIM/SS = 0V
DIM/SS Voltage Clamp
IDIM/SS = 0µA
MAX
UNITS
4.5
V
1
6
µA
µA
1.8
2.2
mA
2.02
2.06
V
l
0.1
l
1.965
l
150
185
210
l
5.4
6.3
7.2
A
5
10
µA
0.001
SW = 24V
DIM/SS Pull-Up Current
TYP
%/V
100
l
10
12
µA
mV
14
1.2
µA
V
Error Amplifier
Full-Scale ISP/ISN Current Sense Threshold
(VISP–ISN)
CTRL ≥ 1.2V, ISP = 24V
CTRL ≥ 1.2V, ISN = 0V
l
l
242
243
250
257
258
268
mV
mV
1/10th Scale ISP/ISN Current Sense Threshold
(VISP–ISN)
CTRL = 0.2V, ISP = 24V
CTRL = 0.2V, ISN = 0V
l
l
21
20
25
28
30
36
mV
mV
Mid-Scale ISP/ISN Current Sense Threshold
(VISP–ISN)
CTRL = 0.5V, ISP = 24V
CTRL = 0.5V, ISN = 0V
l
l
96
94
100
105
104
115
mV
mV
ISP/ISN Overcurrent Threshold
600
0
ISP/ISN Current Sense Amplifier Input Common Mode
Range (VISN)
ISP/ISN Input Bias Current High Side Sensing
(Combined)
PWM = 5V (Active), ISP = ISN = 24V
PWM = 0V (Standby), ISP = ISN = 24V
mV
40
100
0.1
V
µA
µA
ISP/ISN Input Bias Current Low Side Sensing (Combined) PWM = 5V, ISP = ISN = 0V
–230
µA
ISP/ISN Current Sense Amplifier gm (High Side Sensing)
VISP–ISN = 250mV, ISP = 24V
120
µS
ISP/ISN Current Sense Amplifier gm (Low Side Sensing)
VISP–ISN = 250mV, ISN = 0V
CTRL Pin Range for Linear Current Sense Threshold
Adjustment
CTRL Input Bias Current
70
l
0
Current Out of Pin
VC Output Impedance
0.9V ≤ VC ≤ 1.5V
VC Standby Input Bias Current
PWM = 0V
FB Regulation Voltage (VFB)
ISP = ISN = 24V, 0V
FB Amplifier gm
FB = VFB, ISP = ISN = 24V
FB Pin Input Bias Current
Current Out of Pin, FB = VFB
FB Open LED Threshold
VMODE Falling, ISP Tied to ISN
C/10 Inhibit for VMODE Assertion (VISP–ISN)
FB = VFB, ISN = 24V, 0V
FB Overvoltage Threshold
PWMOUT Falling
50
µS
1.0
V
100
nA
15
–20
l
1.225
MΩ
20
1.255
1.275
500
40
25
V
µS
100
l VFB  – 65mV VFB – 50mV VFB – 40mV
14
nA
39
VFB + 50mV VFB + 60mV VFB + 70mV
nA
V
mV
V
Oscillator
Switching Frequency
RT = 95.3kΩ
RT = 8.87kΩ
l
85
925
100
1000
115
1050
kHz
kHz
SW Minimum Off-Time
160
ns
SW Minimum On-Time
180
ns
SYNC Input Low
0.4
SYNC Input High
1.5
V
V
3954f
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LT3954
ELECTRICAL
CHARACTERISTICS
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN = 24V, EN/UVLO = 24V, CTRL = 2V, PWM = 5V, unless otherwise noted.
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
7.60
7.85
8.05
V
Linear Regulator
INTVCC Regulation Voltage
10V ≤ VIN ≤ 40V
l
INTVCC Maximum Operating Voltage
8.1
V
INTVCC Minimum Operating Voltage
Dropout (VIN – INTVCC)
4.5
IINTVCC = –10mA, VIN = 7V
INTVCC Undervoltage Lockout
390
l
INTVCC Current Limit
8V ≤ VIN ≤ 40V, INTVCC = 6V
INTVCC Current in Shutdown
EN/UVLO = 0V, INTVCC = 8V
V
mV
3.9
4.1
4.4
V
30
36
42
mA
8
13
µA
1.220
1.260
Logic Inputs/Outputs
EN/UVLO Threshold Voltage Falling
l
1.180
EN/UVLO Rising Hysteresis
40
EN/UVLO Input Low Voltage
IVIN Drops Below 1µA
EN/UVLO Pin Bias Current Low
EN/UVLO = 1.15V
EN/UVLO Pin Bias Current High
EN/UVLO = 1.33V
VMODE Output Low
IVMODE = 1mA
VMODE Pin Leakage
FB = 0V, VMODE = 12V
l
1.7
2.2
10
V
mV
0.4
V
2.7
µA
100
nA
200
mV
0.1
5
µA
0.78
0.83
0.88
V
PWM Pin Signal Generator
PWM Falling Threshold
l
PWM Threshold Hysteresis (VPWMHYS)
IDIM/SS = 0µA
0.35
0.47
0.6
V
PWM Pull-Up Current (IPWMUP)
PWM = 0.7V, IDIM/SS = 0µA
6
7.5
9
µA
PWM Pull-Down Current (IPWMDN)
PWM = 1.5V, IDIM/SS = 0µA
68
88
110
PWM Fault-Mode Pull-Down Current
INTVCC = 3.6V
PWMOUT Duty Ratio for PWM Signal Generator (Note 5)
IDIM/SS = –6.5µA
IDIM/SS = 0µA
IDIM/SS = 21.5µA
IDIM/SS = 52µA
3.1
6.8
40
95
4.1
7.9
48
96.5
5.2
9.2
56
98
%
%
%
%
PWMOUT Signal Generator Frequency
PWM = 47nF to GND, IDIM/SS = 0µA
170
300
390
Hz
1.5
µA
mA
PWMOUT Driver
PWMOUT Driver Output Rise Time (tr)
CL = 560pF
35
ns
PWMOUT Driver Output Fall Time (tf)
CL = 560pF
35
ns
PWMOUT Output Low (VOL)
PWM = 0V
0.05
PWMOUT Output High (VOH)
INTVCC – 0.05
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: Do not apply a positive or negative voltage or current source to
PWMOUT pin, otherwise permanent damage may occur.
Note 3: The LT3954E is guaranteed to meet performance specifications
from the 0°C to 125°C junction temperature. Specifications over the –40°C
to 125°C operating junction temperature range are assured by design,
characterization and correlation with statistical process controls. The
LT3954I is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating junction
temperature range.
V
V
Note 4: The LT3954 includes overtemperature protection that is intended
to protect the device during momentary overload conditions. Junction
temperature will exceed the maximum operating junction temperature
when overtemperature protection is active. Continuous operation above
the specified maximum junction temperature may impair device reliability.
Note 5: PWMOUT Duty Ratio is calculated:
Duty = IPWMUP/(IPWMUP + IPWMDN)
3954f
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LT3954
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
V(ISP–ISN) Threshold
vs CTRL Voltage
TA = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
V(ISP–ISN) Threshold
vs ISP Voltage
260
300
V(ISP–ISN) Threshold
vs Temperature
265
CTRL = 2V
200
150
100
50
V(ISP – ISN) THRESHOLD (mV)
V(ISP – ISN) THRESHOLD (mV)
V(ISP – ISN) THRESHOLD (mV)
250
255
250
245
0
0.5
0
240
2
1
1.5
CTRL VOLTAGE (V)
3954 G01
FB Regulation Voltage (VFB)
vs Temperature
20
30
ISP VOLTAGE (V)
ISN = 0V
255
250
245
3954 G02
1.250
1.245
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
3954 G03
VREF Source Current
vs Temperature
CTRL = 2V
VREF SOURCE CURRENT (µA)
V(ISP– ISN) THRESHOLD (mV)
1.255
–25
200
230
1.260
ISP = 24V
240
–50
40
260
1.265
VFB (V)
10
260
V(ISP–ISN) Threshold
vs FB Voltage
1.270
200
170
140
110
80
CTRL = 0.5V
190
180
170
160
50
1.240
–50
–25
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
20
1.22 1.225
125
3954 G04
VREF Voltage vs Temperature
1.235
FB (V)
1.24
2.03
2.02
2.01
2.00
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
3954 G07
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
3954 G06
Switching Frequency
vs Temperature
420
900
415
800
700
600
500
400
300
100
–25
3954 G05
RT = 25.5k
410
405
400
395
390
385
200
–25
150
–50
1.25
1.245
1000
SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)
2.04
1.99
–50
1.23
Switching Frequency vs RT
2.05
VREF (V)
0
SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)
–50
CTRL = 2V
100
10
RT (kΩ)
3954 G08
380
–50
–25
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
3954 G09
3954f
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5
LT3954
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
SW Pin Current Limit
vs Duty Cycle
6.6
6.4
6.4
6.2
6.0
5.8
5.6
5.4
–50
–25
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
1.27
6.2
6.0
5.8
20
0
40
60
DUTY CYCLE (%)
0
32
100
TA = 25°C
–0.8
–1.0
TA = 130°C
–1.2
0
340
PWM FREQUENCY (Hz)
20
15
5
5
10
15
20
LDO CURRENT (mA)
25
30
0
–50
–25
0
25
50
0
10
20
30
DIM/SS CURRENT (µA)
40
50
3954 G16
100
125
3954 G15
PWMOUT Waveform
CPWMOUT = 2.2nF
CPWM = 47nF
320
PWM
INPUT
300
PWMOUT
5V/DIV
280
200ns/DIV
0
–10
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
PWM Signal Generator Frequency
vs Duty Ratio
20
25
10
PWM Signal Generator Duty Ratio
vs DIM/SS Current
80
30
–1.6
3954 G14
40
3954 G12
35
–1.4
3954 G13
100
125
40
–0.6
–1.8
125
60
100
45
TA = –45°C
ON-RESISTANCE (mΩ)
34
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
50
–0.4
LDO DROPOUT (V)
INTVCC CURRENT LIMIT (mA)
38
36
–25
Internal Switch On-Resistance
vs Temperature
–0.2
DUTY RATIO (%)
FALLING
1.21
INTVCC Dropout Voltage
vs Current, Temperature
40
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
1.23
3954 G11
INTVCC Current Limit vs
vs Temperature
–25
RISING
1.19
–50
100
80
3954 G10
30
–50
1.25
5.6
5.4
125
EN/UVLO Threshold
vs Temperature
EN/UVLO THRESHOLD (V)
6.6
SW PIN CURRENT LIMIT (A)
SW PIN CURRENT LIMIT (A)
SW Pin Current Limit
vs Temperature
TA = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
260
0
20
40
60
DUTY RATIO (%)
80
3954 G18
100
3954 G17
3954f
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LT3954
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
DIM/SS Voltage vs Current,
Temperature
ISP/ISN Input Bias Current
vs CTRL Voltage, ISP = 24V
ISP/ISN Input Bias Current
vs CTRL Voltage, ISN = 0V
0
120
ISP
INPUT BIAS CURRENT (µA)
100
1.25
T = –45°C, 25°C
1.20
T = 130°C
1.15
–30
INPUT BIAS CURRENT (µA)
1.30
DIM/SS VOLTAGE (V)
TA = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.
80
60
40
ISN
10
20
30
DIM/SS CURRENT (µA)
40
0
50
55
1.5
–180
2
8.5
8.0
7.5
25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C)
3954 G22
1
CTRL (V)
1.5
2
3954 G21
800
700
51
49
45
–50 –25
0.5
VISP-ISN Overcurrent Threshold
vs Temperature
CPWM = 47nF
600
ISP = 24V
500
ISN = 0V
400
47
7.0
0
3954 G20
53
DUTY RATIO (%)
DUTY RATIO (%)
9.0
0
–120
PWMOUT Duty Ratio
vs Temperature, IDIM/SS = 21.5µA
CPWM = 47nF
6.5
–50 –25
1
CTRL (V)
3954 G19
PWMOUT Duty Ratio
vs Temperature, IDIM/SS = 0µA
9.5
0.5
0
VISP-ISN (mV)
0
–90
–150
20
1.10
–10
–60
0
25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C)
3954 G23
300
–50 –25
0
25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C)
3954 G24
3954f
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LT3954
PIN FUNCTIONS
SYNC (Pin 1): Frequency Synchronization Pin. Used to
synchronize the internal oscillator to an outside clock. If
this feature is used, an RT resistor should be chosen to
program a switching frequency 20% slower than SYNC
pulse frequency. Tie the SYNC pin to PWMOUT if this
feature is not used.
EN/UVLO (Pin 2): Enable and Undervoltage Detect Pin. An
accurate 1.22V falling threshold with externally programmable hysteresis causes the switching regulator to shut
down when power is insufficient to maintain output regulation. Above the 1.24V (typical) rising enable threshold
(but below 2.5V), EN/UVLO input bias current is sub-μA.
Below the 1.22V (typical) falling threshold, an accurate
2.2μA (typical) pull-down current is enabled so the user
can define the rising hysteresis with the external resistor
selection. An undervoltage condition causes the switch to
turn off and the PWMOUT pin to transition low and resets
soft-start. Tie to 0.4V, or less, to disable the device and
reduce VIN quiescent current below 1μA. Can be tied to
VIN through a 100k resistor.
INTVCC (Pin 3): Current limited, low dropout linear regulator regulates to 7.85V (typical) from VIN. Supplies internal
loads, SW and PWMOUT drivers. Must be bypassed with
a 1µF ceramic capacitor placed close to the pin and to the
exposed pad GND of the IC.
VIN (Pin 6): Power Supply for Internal Loads and INTVCC
Regulator. Must be locally bypassed with a 0.22µF (or
larger) low ESR capacitor placed close to the pin.
GNDK (Pin 12): Kelvin Connection Pin between PGND
and GND. Kelvin connect this pin to the GND plane close
to the IC. See the Board Layout section.
PGND (Pins 13 to 17): Source Terminal Switch and the
GND Input to the Switch Current Comparator.
PWMOUT (Pin 23): Buffered Version of PWM Signal for
Driving LED Load Disconnect NMOS or Level Shift. This
pin also serves in a protection function for the FB overvoltage condition—will toggle if the FB input is greater
than the FB regulation voltage (VFB) plus 60mV (typical).
The PWMOUT pin is driven from INTVCC. Use of a FET
with gate cut-off voltage higher than 1V is recommended.
FB (Pin 25): Voltage Loop Feedback Pin. FB is intended for
constant-voltage regulation or for LED protection and open
LED detection. The internal transconductance amplifier with
output VC will regulate FB to 1.25V (nominal) through the
DC/DC converter. If the FB input exceeds the regulation
voltage, VFB, minus 50mV and the voltage between ISP
and ISN has dropped below the C/10 threshold of 25mV
(typical), the VMODE pull-down is asserted. This action
may signal an open LED fault. If FB is driven above the
FB overvoltage threshold, the PWMOUT pin will be driven
low and the internal power switch is turned off, to protect
the LEDs from an overcurrent event. Do not leave the FB
pin open. If not used, connect to GND.
ISN (Pin 27): Connection Point for the Negative Terminal
of the Current Feedback Resistor. The constant output
current regulation can be programmed by ILED = 250mV/
RLED when CTRL > 1.2V or ILED = (CTRL – 100mV)/(4 •
RLED). If ISN is greater than INTVCC, input bias current
is typically 20μA flowing into the pin. Below INTVCC, ISN
bias current decreases until it flows out of the pin.
ISP (Pin 28): Connection Point for the Positive Terminal of
the Current Feedback Resistor. Input bias current depends
upon CTRL pin voltage. When it is greater than INTVCC it
flows into the pin. Below INTVCC, ISP bias current decreases
until it flows out of the pin. If the difference between ISP
and ISN exceeds 600mV (typical), then an overcurrent
event is detected. In response to this event, the switch is
turned off and the PWMOUT pin is driven low to protect
the switching regulator, a 1.5mA pulldown on PWM and
a 9mA pulldown on the DIM/SS pin are activated for 4µs.
VC (Pin 30): Transconductance Error Amplifier Output
Pin Used to Stabilize the Switching Regulator Control
Loop with an RC Network. The VC pin is high impedance
when PWM is low. This feature allows the VC pin to store
the demand current state variable for the next PWM high
transition. Connect a capacitor between this pin and GND;
a resistor in series with the capacitor is recommended for
fast transient response.
3954f
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LT3954
PIN FUNCTIONS
CTRL (Pin 31): Current Sense Threshold Adjustment Pin.
Constant current regulation point VISP-ISN is one-fourth
VCTRL plus an offset for 0V ≤ CTRL ≤ 1V. For CTRL >
1.2V the VISP-ISN current regulation point is constant at
the full-scale value of 250mV. For 1V ≤ CTRL ≤ 1.2V, the
dependence of VISP-ISN upon CTRL voltage transitions from
a linear function to a constant value, reaching 98% of fullscale value by CTRL = 1.1V. Do not leave this pin open.
VREF (Pin 32): Voltage Reference Output Pin, Typically 2V.
This pin drives a resistor divider for the CTRL pin, either
for analog dimming or for temperature limit/compensation
of LED load. It can be bypassed with 10nF or greater, or
less than 50pF. Can supply up to 185µA (typical).
PWM (Pin 33): A signal low turns off switcher, idles the
oscillator and disconnects the VC pin from all internal
loads. PWMOUT pin follows the PWM pin, except in fault
conditions. The PWM pin can be driven with a digital signal
to cause pulse width modulation (PWM) dimming of an
LED load. The digital signal should be capable of sourcing
or sinking 200μA at the high and low thresholds. During
start-up when DIM/SS is below 1V, the first rising edge
of PWM enables switching which continues until VISP-ISN
≥ 25mV or DIM/SS ≥ 1V. Connecting a capacitor from
PWM pin to GND invokes a self-driving oscillator where
internal pull-up and pull-down currents set a duty ratio
for the PWMOUT pin for dimming LEDs. The magnitudes
of the pull-up/down currents are set by the current in the
DIM/SS pin. The capacitor on PWM sets the frequency of
the dimming signal. For hiccup mode response to output
short-circuit faults, connect this pin as shown in the application titled Boost LED Driver with Output Short-Circuit
Protection. If not used, connect the PWM pin to INTVCC.
VMODE (Pin 34): An open-drain pull-down on this pin
asserts if the FB input is greater than the FB regulation
voltage (VFB) minus 50mV (typical) AND the difference
between current sense inputs ISP and ISN is less than
25mV. To function, the pin requires an external pull-up
resistor, usually to INTVCC. When the PWM input is low
and the DC/DC converter is idle, the VMODE condition is
latched to the last valid state when the PWM input was
high. When PWM input goes high again, the VMODE pin
will be updated. This pin may be used to report transition from constant current regulation to constant voltage
regulation modes, for instance in a charger or current
limited voltage supply.
DIM/SS (Pin 35): Soft-Start and PWM Dimming Signal
Generator Programming Pin. This pin modulates switching
regulator frequency and compensation pin voltage (VC)
clamp when it is below 1V. The soft-start interval is set
with an external capacitor and the DIM/SS pin charging
current. The pin has an internal 12μA (typical) pull-up
current source. The soft-start pin is reset to GND by an
undervoltage condition (detected at the EN/UVLO pin),
INTVCC undervoltage, overcurrent event sensed at ISP/
ISN, or thermal limit. After initial start-up with EN/UVLO,
DIM/SS is forced low until the first PWM rising edge. When
DIM/SS reaches the steady-state voltage (~1.17V), the
charging current (sum of internal and external currents) is
sensed and used to set the PWM pin charging and discharge
currents and threshold hysteresis. In this manner, the SS
charging current sets the duty cycle of the PWM signal
generator associated with the PWM pin. This pin should
always have a capacitor to GND, minimum 560pF value,
when used with the PWM signal generator function. See
typical performance curves for details on the variation of
PWM pin parameters with SS charging current. Place the
capacitor close to the IC.
RT (Pin 36): Switching Frequency Adjustment Pin. Set the
frequency using a resistor to GND (for resistor values, see
the Typical Performance curve or Table 2). Do not leave
the RT pin open. Place the resistor close to the IC.
GND (Exposed Pad Pin 37, Pins 4, 24): Ground. Solder
the exposed pads directly to the ground plane.
SW (Exposed Pad Pin 38, Pins 8, 9, 20, 21): Drain of
Internal Power N-channel MOSFET.
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LT3954
BLOCK DIAGRAM
180µA
VREF
1.3V
–
+A7
2V
F1(IDIM/SS)
PWM
+
–
CTRL
100mV
1V
CLAMP
–
+
0.8V
FAULT
CTRL
BUFFER
S
R
PWMINT
Q
10µA
R
Q
S
+
–
A1
+
–
CC EAMP
+
gm
–
CV EAMP
VC
ISENSE
IDIM/SS
DETECT
10µA AT
FB = 1.25V
RSENSE
PGND
+
+
–
SHDN
FREQ
PROG
PWMINT
+
–
ISP
FAULT
LOGIC
1.2V
DIM/SS
OPENLED
LOGIC
25mV
ISN
12µA
ISP > ISN + 0.6V
T > 165°C
GND
VMODE
FAULT
2.2µA
GNDK
100kHz TO 1MHz
OSCILLATOR
A6
BANDGAP
REFERENCE
48mV
RAMP
GENERATOR
1V
–
+
+
–
A4
10µA AT
A1+ = A1–
A5
1.25V
FB
CURRENT MODE
COMPARATOR
M1
DRIVER
A3
ISN
1.22V
SW
+
A2
–
1.5mA
–
gm
+
INTVCC
7.85V
×1/4
ISP
EN/UVLO
– LDO
+A8
1.25V
OVFB
COMPARATOR
–
+
0.8V + F3(IDIM/SS)
F2(IDIM/SS)
VIN
PWMOUT
–
+
FB
RT
SYNC
FB
+
–
–
+
3954 BD
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LT3954
OPERATION
The LT3954 is a constant-frequency, current mode converter with a low side N-channel MOSFET switch. The
switch and PWMOUT pin drivers, and other chip loads,
are powered from INTVCC, which is an internally regulated
supply. In the discussion that follows it will be helpful to
refer to the Block Diagram of the IC. In normal operation
with the PWM pin low, the switch is turned off and the
PWMOUT pin is driven to GND, the VC pin is high impedance to store the previous switching state on the external
compensation capacitor, and the ISP and ISN pin bias
currents are reduced to leakage levels. When the PWM pin
transitions high, the PWMOUT pin transitions high after a
short delay. At the same time, the internal oscillator wakes
up and generates a pulse to set the PWM latch, turning on
the internal power MOSFET switch. A voltage input proportional to the switch current, sensed by an internal current
sense resistor is added to a stabilizing slope compensation
ramp and the resulting switch current sense signal is fed
into the negative terminal of the PWM comparator. The
current in the external inductor increases steadily during
the time the switch is on. When the switch current sense
voltage exceeds the output of the error amplifier, labeled
VC, the latch is reset and the switch is turned off. During
the switch-off phase, the inductor current decreases. At the
completion of each oscillator cycle, internal signals such
as slope compensation return to their starting points and
a new cycle begins with the set pulse from the oscillator.
Through this repetitive action, the PWM control algorithm
establishes a switch duty cycle to regulate a current or
voltage in the load. The VC signal is integrated over many
switching cycles and is an amplified version of the difference between the LED current sense voltage, measured
between ISP and ISN, and the target difference voltage
set by the CTRL pin. In this manner, the error amplifier
sets the correct peak switch current level to keep the
LED current in regulation. If the error amplifier output
increases, more current is demanded in the switch; if it
decreases, less current is demanded. The switch current
is monitored during the on-phase and is not allowed to
exceed the current limit threshold of 6.0A (typical). If the
SW pin exceeds the current limit threshold, the SR latch is
reset regardless of the output state of the PWM comparator. The difference between ISP and ISN is monitored to
determine if the output is in a short-circuit condition. If
the difference between ISP and ISN is greater than 600mV
(typical), the SR latch will be reset regardless of the PWM
comparator. The DIM/SS pin will be pulled down and the
PWMOUT pin forced low and the SW pin turned off for
at least 4µs. These functions are intended to protect the
power switch as well as various external components in
the power path of the DC/DC converter.
In voltage feedback mode, the operation is similar to that
described above, except the voltage at the VC pin is set by
the amplified difference of the internal reference of 1.25V
and the FB pin. If FB is lower than the reference voltage,
the switch current will increase; if FB is higher than the
reference voltage, the switch demand current will decrease.
The LED current sense feedback interacts with the FB
voltage feedback so that FB will not exceed the internal
reference and the voltage between ISP and ISN will not
exceed the threshold set by the CTRL pin. For accurate
current or voltage regulation, it is necessary to be sure that
under normal operating conditions the appropriate loop is
dominant. To deactivate the voltage loop entirely, FB can
be connected to GND. To deactivate the LED current loop
entirely, the ISP and ISN should be tied together and the
CTRL input tied to VREF.
Two LED specific functions featured on the LT3954 are
controlled by the voltage feedback pin. First, when the
FB pin exceeds a voltage 50mV lower (–4%) than the FB
regulation voltage, and the difference voltage between
ISP and ISN is below 25mV (typical), the pull-down driver
on the VMODE pin is activated. This function provides a
status indicator that the load may be disconnected and
the constant-voltage feedback loop is taking control of the
switching regulator. The VMODE pin de-asserts only when
PWM is high and FB drops below the voltage threshold. FB
overvoltage is the second protective function. When the
FB pin exceeds the FB regulation voltage by 60mV (plus
5% typical), the PWMOUT pin is driven low, ignoring the
state of the PWM input. In the case where the PWMOUT
pin drives a disconnect NFET, this action isolates the
LED load from GND, preventing excessive current from
damaging the LEDs.
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
INTVCC Regulator Bypassing and Operation
The INTVCC pin requires a capacitor for stable operation
and to store the charge for the large internal MOSFET gate
switching currents. Choose a 10V rated low ESR, X7R
ceramic capacitor for best performance. A 1μF capacitor
will be adequate for many applications. Place the capacitor
close to the IC to minimize the trace length to the INTVCC
pin and also to the IC ground.
An internal current limit on the INTVCC output protects the
LT3954 from excessive on-chip power dissipation. The
INTVCC pin has its own undervoltage disable set to 4.1V
(typical) to protect the internal MOSFET from excessive
power dissipation caused by not being fully enhanced.
If the INTVCC pin drops below the UVLO threshold, the
PWMOUT pin will be forced to 0V, the power switch will
be turned off and the soft-start pin will be reset.
If the input voltage, VIN, will not exceed 8.1V, then the
INTVCC pin could be connected to the input supply. Be
aware that a small current (less than 13μA) will load the
INTVCC in shutdown. This action allows the LT3954 to
operate from VIN as low as 4.5V. If VIN is normally above,
but occasionally drops below the INTVCC regulation voltage,
then the minimum operating VIN will be close to 5V. This
value is determined by the dropout voltage of the linear
regulator and the INTVCC undervoltage lockout threshold
mentioned above.
Programming the Turn-On and Turn-Off Thresholds
with the EN/UVLO Pin
The power supply undervoltage lockout (UVLO) value
can be accurately set by the resistor divider to the
EN/UVLO pin. A small 2.2μA pull-down current is active when
EN/UVLO is below the threshold. The purpose of this current is to allow the user to program the rising hysteresis.
The following equations should be used to determine the
value of the resistors:
R1+R2
R2
= 2.2µA •R1 + VIN,FALLING
VIN,FALLING = 1.22 •
VIN,RISING
VIN
LT3954
R1
EN/UVLO
R2
3954 F01
Figure 1. Resistor Connection to Set
VIN Undervoltage Shutdown Threshold
LED Current Programming
The LED current is programmed by placing an appropriate
value current sense resistor, RLED, in series with the LED
string. The voltage drop across RLED is (Kelvin) sensed by
the ISP and ISN pins. A half watt resistor is usually a good
choice. To give the best accuracy, sensing of the current
should be done at the top of the LED string. If this option is
not available then the current may be sensed at the bottom
of the string, or in the source of the PWM disconnect NFET
driven by the PWMOUT signal. Input bias currents for the
ISP and ISN inputs are shown in the typical performance
characteristics and should be considered when placing a
resistor in series with the ISP or ISN pins.
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
The CTRL pin should be tied to a voltage higher than 1.2V
to get the full-scale 250mV (typical) threshold across the
sense resistor. The CTRL pin can also be used to dim the
LED current to zero, although relative accuracy decreases
with the decreasing voltage sense threshold. When the
CTRL pin voltage is less than 1V, the LED current is:
ILED =
VCTRL − 100mV
RLED • 4
When the CTRL pin voltage is between 1V and 1.2V the LED
current varies with CTRL, but departs from the previous
equation by an increasing amount as the CTRL voltage
increases. Ultimately, the LED current no longer varies for
CTRL ≥ 1.2V. At CTRL = 1.1V, the value of ILED is ~98% of
the equation’s estimate. Some values are listed in Table 1.
Table 1. (ISP-ISN) Threshold vs CTRL
VCRTL (V)
(ISP-ISN) Threshold (mV)
1.0
225
1.05
236
1.1
244.5
1.15
248.5
1.2
250
When CTRL is higher than 1.2V, the LED current is regulated to:
ILED =
250mV
RLED
the LED load, or with a resistor divider to VIN to reduce
output power and switching current when VIN is low.
The presence of a time varying differential voltage signal
(ripple) across ISP and ISN at the switching frequency
is expected. The amplitude of this signal is increased by
high LED load current, low switching frequency and/or a
smaller value output filter capacitor. Some level of ripple
signal is acceptable: the compensation capacitor on the
VC pin filters the signal so the average difference between
ISP and ISN is regulated to the user-programmed value.
Ripple voltage amplitude (peak-to-peak) in excess of
50mV should not cause mis-operation, but may lead to
noticeable offset between the current regulation and the
user-programmed value.
Output Current Capability
An important consideration when using a switch with a
fixed current limit is whether the regulator will be able to
supply the load at the extremes of input and output voltage
range. Several equations are provided to help determine this
capability. Some margin to data sheet limits is included.
For boost converters:
IOUT(MAX) ≤ 4.0A
VIN(MIN)
VOUT(MAX)
For buck mode converters:
IOUT(MAX) ≤ 4.0A
For SEPIC and buck-boost mode converters:
The CTRL pin should not be left open (tie to VREF if not
used). The CTRL pin can also be used in conjunction with
a thermistor to provide overtemperature protection for
IOUT(MAX) ≤ 4.0A
VIN(MIN)
(VOUT(MAX) + VIN(MIN) )
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
These equations assume the inductor value and switching frequency have been selected so that inductor ripple
current is ~800mA. Ripple current higher than this value
will reduce available output current. Be aware that current
limited operation at high duty cycle can greatly increase
inductor ripple current, so additional margin may be required at high duty cycle.
If some level of analog dimming is acceptable at minimum
supply levels, then the CTRL pin can be used with a resistor
divider to VIN (as shown on page 1) to provide a higher
output current at nominal VIN levels.
Programming Output Voltage (Constant Voltage
Regulation) or Open LED/Overvoltage Threshold
For a boost or SEPIC application, the output voltage can
be set by selecting the values of R3 and R4 (see Figure 2)
according to the following equation:
VOUT = 1.25 •
R3 + R4
R4
VOUT
R3
LT3954
FB
R4
3954 F02
Figure 2. Feedback Resistor Connection for
Boost or SEPIC LED Driver
For a boost type LED driver, set the resistor from the
output to the FB pin such that the expected voltage level
during normal operation will not exceed 1.17V. For an LED
driver of buck mode or a buck-boost mode configuration,
the output voltage is typically level-shifted to a signal with
respect to GND as illustrated in Figure 3. The output can
be expressed as:
VOUT = VBE + 1.25 •
R3
+
RSEN(EXT)
VOUT
–
LT3954
100k
LED
ARRAY
COUT
3954 F03
FB
R4
Figure 3. Feedback Resistor Connection for
Buck Mode or Buck-Boost Mode LED Driver
ISP/ISN Short-Circuit Protection Feature
The ISP/ISN pins have a protection feature independent
of their LED current sense feature. The purpose of this
feature is to prevent the development of excessive currents that could damage the power components or the
load. The action threshold (VISP-ISN > 600mV, typical) is
above the default LED current sense threshold, so that no
interference will occur with current regulation. Exceeding
the threshold activates pull-downs on the DIM/SS and
PWM pins and causes the power switch to be turned off,
and the PWMOUT pin to be driven low for at least 4µs.
If an overcurrent condition is sensed at ISP/ISN and the
PWM pin is configured either to make an internal dimming
signal, or for always-on operation as shown in the application titled Boost LED Driver with Output Short-Circuit
Protection, then the LT3954 will enter a hiccup mode of
operation. In this mode, after the initial response to the
fault, the PWMOUT pin re-enables the output switch at an
interval set by the capacitor on the PWM pin. If the fault
is still present, the PWMOUT pin will go low after a short
delay (typically 7µs) and turn off the output switch. This
fault-retry sequence continues until the fault is no longer
present in the output.
R3
R4
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
PWM Dimming Control
There are two methods to control the current source for
dimming using the LT3954. One method uses the CTRL
pin to adjust the current regulated in the LEDs. A second
method uses the PWM pin to modulate the current source
between zero and full current to achieve a precisely programmed average current. To make PWM dimming more
accurate, the switch demand current is stored on the VC
node during the quiescent phase when PWM is low. This
feature minimizes recovery time when the PWM signal
goes high. To further improve the recovery time, a disconnect switch may be used in the LED current path to
prevent the ISP node from discharging during the PWM
signal low phase.
The minimum PWM on or off time is affected by choice
of operating frequency and external component selection.
The best overall combination of PWM and analog dimming
capability is available if the minimum PWM pulse is at least
six switching cycles.
A low duty cycle PWM signal can cause excessive start-up
times if it were allowed to interrupt the soft-start sequence.
Therefore, once start-up is initiated by PWM > 1.3V, it will
ignore a logical disable by the external PWM input signal.
The device will continue to soft-start with switching and
PWMOUT enabled until either the voltage at SS reaches
the 1V level, or the output current reaches one-tenth of
the full-scale current. At this point the device will begin
following the dimming control as designated by PWM.
PWM Dimming Signal Generator
The LT3954 features a PWM dimming signal generator
with programmable duty cycle. The frequency of the square
wave signal at PWMOUT is set by a capacitor CPWM from
the PWM pin to GND according to the equation:
fPWM = 14kHz • nF/CPWM
The duty cycle of the signal at PWMOUT is set by a µA
scale current into the DIM/SS pin (see Figure 4).
PWMOUT DUTY RATIO (%)
100
CPWM = 47nF
80
60
40
20
0
0
2
4
6
DIM VOLTAGE (V)
8
3954 F04
Figure 4. PWMOUT Duty Ratio vs DIM Voltage for RDIM = 124k
Internally generated pull-up and pull-down currents on
the PWM pin are used to charge and discharge its capacitor between the high and low thresholds to generate the
duty cycle signal. These current signals on the PWM pin
are small enough so they can be easily overdriven by a
digital signal from a microcontroller to obtain very high
dimming performance. The practical minimum duty cycle
using the internal signal generator is about 4% if the DIM/
SS pin is used to adjust the dimming ratio. Consult the
factory for techniques for and limitations of generating a
duty ratio less than 4% using the internal generator. For
always on operation, the PWM pin should be connected
as shown in the application Boost LED Driver with Output
Short-Circuit Protection.
Programming the Switching Frequency
The RT frequency adjust pin allows the user to program
the switching frequency (fSW) from 100kHz to 1MHz to
optimize efficiency/performance or external component
size. Higher frequency operation yields smaller component size but increases switching losses and gate driving
current, and may not allow sufficiently high or low duty
cycle operation. Lower frequency operation gives better
performance at the cost of larger external component
size. For an appropriate RT resistor value see Table 2.
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
An external resistor from the RT pin to GND is required—do
not leave this pin open.
Table 2. Switching Frequency (fSW) vs RT Value
fSW (kHz)
RT (kΩ)
100
95.3
200
48.7
300
33.2
400
25.5
500
20.5
600
16.9
700
14.3
800
12.1
900
10.7
1000
8.87
Besides the limitation by the minimum off-time, it is
also recommended to choose the maximum duty cycle
below 95%.
VLED − VIN
VLED
DBOOST =
DBUCK _ MODE =
VLED
VIN
DSEPIC , DCUK =
VLED
VLED + VIN
300
250
Duty Cycle Considerations
SW MINIMUM ON-TIME
Switching duty cycle is a key variable defining converter
operation, therefore, its limits must be considered when
programming the switching frequency for a particular application. The minimum duty cycle of the switch is limited
by the fixed minimum on-time and the switching frequency
(fSW). The maximum duty cycle of the switch is limited
by the fixed minimum off-time and fSW. The following
equations express the minimum/maximum duty cycle:
TIME (ns)
200
150
SW MINIMUM OFF-TIME
100
Min Duty Cycle = 220ns • fSW
50
0
–50
–25
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
3954 F05
Figure 5. Typical Switch Minimum On
and Off Pulse Width vs Temperature
Max Duty Cycle = 1 – 170ns • fSW
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Thermal Considerations
Open LED Reporting – Constant Voltage Regulation
Status Pin
The LT3954 is rated to a maximum input voltage of 40V.
Careful attention must be paid to the internal power dissipation of the IC at higher input voltages to ensure that
a junction temperature of 125°C is not exceeded. This
junction limit is especially important when operating at
high ambient temperatures. If LT3954 junction temperature
reaches 165°C, the power switch will be turned off and
the PWMOUT pin will be driven to GND and the soft-start
(DIM/SS) pin will be discharged to GND. Switching will
be enabled after device temperature is reduced 10°C. This
function is intended to protect the device during momentary
thermal overload conditions.
The LT3954 provides an open-drain status pin, VMODE,
that pulls low when the FB pin is within 50mV of its 1.25V
regulated voltage AND output current sensed by VISP-ISN
has reduced to 25mV, or 10% of the full-scale value. The
10% output current qualification (C/10) is unique for an LED
driver but fully compatible with open LED indication – the
qualification is always satisfied since for an open load zero
current flows in the load. The C/10 feature is particularly
useful in the case where VMODE is used to indicate the
end of a battery charging cycle and terminate charging or
transition to a float charge mode.
The major contributors to internal power dissipation are
the current in the linear regulator to drive the switch, and
the ohmic losses in the switch. The linear regulator power
is proportional to VIN and switching frequency, so at high
VIN the switching frequency should be chosen carefully
to ensure that the IC does not exceed a safe junction
temperature. The internal junction temperature of the IC
can be estimated by:
For monitoring the LED string voltage, if the open LED
clamp voltage is programmed correctly using the FB
resistor divider then the FB pin should not exceed 1.18V
when LEDs are connected. If the VMODE pulldown is asserted when the PWM pin transitions low, the pulldown
will continue to be asserted until the next rising edge of
PWM even if FB falls below the VMODE threshold. Figure 6
shows the VMODE logic block diagram.
TJ = TA + [VIN • (IQ + fSW • 7nC) + ISW2 • 0.04Ω • DSW]
• θJA
TJ = 85°C + [(4A)2 • 0.04Ω • 0.7 + 40V •
(2.2mA + 400kHz • 7nC)] • 34°C/W= 107°C
The exposed pad on the bottom of the package must be
soldered to a ground plane. This ground should then be
connected to an internal copper ground plane with thermal
vias placed directly under the package to spread out the
heat dissipated by the IC.
ISP
RLED
ISN
–
C/10
COMPARATOR
VMODE
25mV
+
–
where TA is the ambient temperature, IQ is the quiescent
current of the part (maximum 2.2mA) and θJA is the package thermal impedance (34°C/W for the 5mm × 6mm QFN
package). For example, an application with TA(MAX) = 85°C,
VIN(MAX) = 40V, fSW = 400kHz, and having an average
switching current of 4A at 70% duty cycle, the maximum
IC junction temperature will be approximately:
ILED
+
S
1mA
Q
R
1.2V
FB
–
+
OPEN LED
COMPARATOR
PWM
1. VMODE ASSERTS WHEN VISP-ISN < 25mV AND FB > 1.2V, AND IS LATCHED
2. VMODE DE-ASSERTS WHEN FB < 1.19V, AND PWM = LOGIC “1”
3. ANY FAULT CONDITION RESETS THE LATCH, SO LT3955 STARTS UP
WITH VMODE DE-ASSERTED
3954 F06
Figure 6. VMODE (CV Mode) Logic Block Diagram
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LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Input Capacitor Selection
The input capacitor supplies the transient input current for
the power inductor of the converter and must be placed
and sized according to the transient current requirements.
The switching frequency, output current and tolerable input
voltage ripple are key inputs to estimating the capacitor
value. An X7R type ceramic capacitor is usually the best
choice since it has the least variation with temperature and
DC bias. Typically, boost and SEPIC converters require a
lower value capacitor than a buck mode converter. Assuming that a 100mV input voltage ripple is acceptable,
the required capacitor value for a boost converter can be
estimated as follows:
CIN (µF) = ILED (A) •
 µF 
VOUT
• t SW (µs) • 
 A • µs 
VIN
Therefore, a 10μF capacitor is an appropriate selection
for a 400kHz boost regulator with 12V input, 36V output
and 1A load.
With the same VIN voltage ripple of 100mV, the input capacitor for a buck converter can be estimated as follows:
 µF 
CIN (µF) = ILED (A) • t SW (µs) • 4.7 • 
 A • µs 
A 10μF input capacitor is an appropriate selection for a
400kHz buck mode converter with a 1A load.
In the buck mode configuration, the input capacitor has
large pulsed currents due to the current returned through
the Schottky diode when the switch is off. In this buck
converter case it is important to place the capacitor as close
as possible to the Schottky diode and to the GND return
of the switch (i.e., the sense resistor). It is also important
to consider the ripple current rating of the capacitor. For
best reliability, this capacitor should have low ESR and
ESL and have an adequate ripple current rating.
Table 3. Recommended Ceramic Capacitor Manufacturers
MANUFACTURER
WEB
TDK
www.tdk.com
Kemet
www.kemet.com
Murata
www.murata.com
Taiyo Yuden
www.t-yuden.com
Output Capacitor Selection
The selection of the output capacitor depends on the load
and converter configuration, i.e., step-up or step-down
and the operating frequency. For LED applications, the
equivalent resistance of the LED is typically low and the
output filter capacitor should be sized to attenuate the
current ripple. Use of X7R type ceramic capacitors is
recommended.
To achieve the same LED ripple current, the required filter
capacitor is larger in the boost and buck-boost mode applications than that in the buck mode applications. Lower
operating frequencies will require proportionately higher
capacitor values.
Soft-Start Capacitor Selection
For many applications, it is important to minimize the
inrush current at start-up. The built-in soft-start circuit
significantly reduces the start-up current spike and output
voltage overshoot. Connect a capacitor from the DIM/SS
pin to GND to use this feature. The soft-start interval is
set by the softstart capacitor selection according to the
equation:
TSS = CSS •
1.2V
100µs
= CSS •
12µA
nF
3954f
18
For more information www.linear.com/3954
LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
provided there is no additional current supplied to the
DIM/SS pin for programming the duty cycle of the PWM
dimming signal generator. A typical value for the soft-start
capacitor is 10nF which gives a 1ms start-up interval. The
soft-start pin reduces the oscillator frequency and the
maximum current in the switch.
The soft-start capacitor discharges if one of the following events occurs: the EN/UVLO falls below its threshold;
output overcurrent is detected at the ISP/ISN pins; IC
overtemperature; or INTVCC undervoltage. During startup with EN/UVLO, charging of the soft-start capacitor is
enabled after the first PWM high period. In the start-up
sequence, after switching is enabled by PWM the switching
continues until VISP-ISN > 25mV or DIM/SS > 1V. PWM
pin negative edges during this start-up interval are not
processed until one of these two conditions are met so
that the regulator can reach steady state operation shortly
after PWM dimming commences.
It is prudent to measure the diode temperature in steady
state to ensure that its absolute maximum ratings are not
exceeded.
Table 4. Schottky Rectifier Manufacturers
MANUFACTURER
WEB
On Semiconductor
www.onsemi.com
Central Semiconductor
www.centralsemi.com
Diodes, Inc.
www.diodes.com
Inductor Selection
The inductor used with the LT3954 should have a saturation
current rating appropriate to the maximum switch current
of 6.8A. Choose an inductor value based on operating
frequency, input and output voltage to provide a current
mode signal of approximately 0.8A magnitude. The following equations are useful to estimate the inductor value for
continuous conduction mode operation (use the minimum
value for VIN and maximum value for VLED):
Schottky Rectifier Selection
The power Schottky diode conducts current during the
interval when the switch is turned off. Select a diode rated
for the maximum SW voltage of the application and the
RMS diode current. If using the PWM feature for dimming,
it may be important to consider diode leakage, which increases with the temperature, from the output during the
PWM low interval. Therefore, choose the Schottky diode
with sufficiently low leakage current. Table 4 has some
recommended component vendors. The diode current
and VF should be considered when selecting the diode
to be sure that power dissipation does not exceed the
rating of the diode. The power dissipated by the diode in
a converter is:
LBUCK =
VLED ( VIN – VLED )
VIN • 0.8A • fOSC
LBUCK-BOOST =
LBOOST =
VLED • VIN
( VLED + VIN ) • 0.8A • fOSC
VIN ( VLED – VIN)
VLED • 0.8A • fOSC
Use the equation for Buck-Boost when choosing an inductor value for SEPIC – if the SEPIC inductor is coupled,
then the equation’s result can be used as is. If the SEPIC
uses two uncoupled inductors, then each should have a
inductance double the result of the equation.
PD = ID • VF • (1-DMAX)
3954f
For more information www.linear.com/3954
19
LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Table 5 provides some recommended inductor vendors.
Table 5. Recommended Inductor Manufacturers
MANUFACTURER
WEB
Coilcraft
www.coilcraft.com
Cooper-Coiltronics
www.cooperet.com
Würth-Midcom
www.we-online.com
Vishay
www.vishay.com
Loop Compensation
The LT3954 uses an internal transconductance error
amplifier whose VC output compensates the control loop.
The external inductor, output capacitor and the compensation resistor and capacitor determine the loop stability.
The inductor and output capacitor are chosen based on
performance, size and cost. The compensation resistor
and capacitor at VC are selected to optimize control loop
response and stability. For typical LED applications, a 4.7nF
compensation capacitor at VC is adequate, and a series
resistor should always be used to increase the slew rate
on the VC pin to maintain tighter regulation of LED current
during fast transients on the input supply to the converter.
disconnect follow the same guidelines as for the NMOS
regarding voltage and current ratings. It is important to
include a bypass diode to GND at the drain of the PMOS
switch to ensure that the voltage rating of this switch is
not exceeded during transient fault events.
The DC-Coupling Capacitor Selection for SEPIC
LED Driver
The DC voltage rating of the DC-coupling capacitor CDC
connected between the primary and secondary inductors of
a SEPIC should be larger than the maximum input voltage:
VCDC > VIN(MAX)
CDC has nearly a rectangular current waveform. During
the switch off-time, the current through CDC is IVIN, while
approximately –ILED flows during the on-time. The CDC
voltage ripple causes current distortions on the primary
and secondary inductors. The CDC should be sized to limit
its voltage ripple. The power loss on the CDC ESR reduces
the LED driver efficiency. Therefore, the sufficient low ESR
ceramic capacitors should be selected. The X5R or X7R
ceramic capacitor is recommended for CDC.
Disconnect Switch Selection
Board Layout
An NMOS in series with the LED string at the cathode is
recommended in most LT3954 applications to improve
the PWM dimming. The NMOS BVDSS rating should be as
high as the open LED regulation voltage set by the FB pin,
which is typically the same rating as the power switch of the
converter. The maximum continuous drain current ID(MAX)
rating should be higher than the maximum LED current.
The high speed operation of the LT3954 demands careful
attention to board layout and component placement. The
exposed pads of the package are important for thermal
management of the IC. It is crucial to achieve a good electrical and thermal contact between the GND exposed pad and
the ground plane of the board. To reduce electromagnetic
interference (EMI), it is important to minimize the area of
the high dV/dt switching node between the inductor, SW
pin and anode of the Schottky rectifier. Use a ground plane
under the switching node to eliminate interplane coupling
to sensitive signals. The lengths of the high dI/dt traces
from the switch node through the Schottky rectifier and
A PMOS high side disconnect is needed for buck mode,
buck-boost mode or an output short circuit protected
boost. A level shift to drive the PMOS switch is shown
in the application schematic Boost LED Driver with Output Short Circuit Protection. In the case of a high side
3954f
20
For more information www.linear.com/3954
LT3954
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
CTRL
VMODE
CSS
PWM
regulator should be placed near the GND of the IC. The
ground for the compensation network and other DC control
signals should be star connected to the GND Exposed Pad
of the IC. Do not extensively route high impedance signals
such as FB and VC, as they may pick up switching noise.
Since there is a small variable DC input bias current to
the ISN and ISP inputs, resistance in series with these
pins should be minimized to avoid creating an offset in
the current sense threshold.
filter capacitor to PGND, should be minimized. The output
capacitors should terminate as close as possible to the
PGND pins. The PGND and GND planes on the PCB should
not be connected together. Instead, a single pin named
GNDK (Pin 12) should be connected to the GND plane
and pins through vias. This pin is internally attached to
the PGND pins, but provides a proper connection between
the GND and PGND pins when the IC is placed on the PCB,
as shown in the suggested layout (Figure 7). Likewise, the
ground terminal of the bypass capacitor for the INTVCC
RT
1
28
LT3954
2
CVCC
27
VIA FROM LED+
LED–
3
3
4
R1 R2
25
VIN
R4 R3
M1
24
GND
VIAS TO SW PLANE
VIA FROM VOUT
36 35 34 33 32 31 30
VIA FROM
PWMOUT
VIAS TO GND PLANE
CC
RC
6
1
23
2
PWMOUT VIA
8
VIAS FROM
PGND
21
9
20
SW
10
12 13 14 15 16 17
PGND
VIAS
L1
D1
COUT
COUT
RS
CVIN
VIN
PGND
VOUT LED+
VIA VIA
LED+
3954 F07
Figure 7. Boost Converter Suggested Layout
3954f
For more information www.linear.com/3954
21
LT3954
TYPICAL APPLICATION
95% Efficiency 20W Boost LED Driver with Internal PWM Dimming
L1
22µH
VIN
5V TO 30V
CVIN
4.7µF
50V
R1
499k
VIN
CTRL
INTVCC
100k
124k
10nF
ISP
RS
0.38Ω
LT3954
165k
DIM
PGND
VREF
1M
COUT
4.7µF
×3
50V
SW
EN/UVLO
R2
147k
D1
RT
28.7k
350kHz
650mA
ISN
FB
VMODE
DIM/SS
SYNC
PWM
RT
PWMOUT
VC GND GNDK INTVCC
RC
5.1k
47nF
CC
300Hz 4.7nF
20W LED STRING
(CURRENT DERATED
FOR VIN < 9V)
R3
1M
R4
37.4k
M1
INTVCC
CVCC
1µF
3954 TA02a
M1: VISHAY Si4840BDY
L1: COILTRONICS DR125-220-R
D1: DIODES PDS3100
Efficiency vs VIN
100
EFFICIENCY (%)
97
94
91
88
85
5
10
15
20
VIN (V)
25
30
3954 TA02b
3954f
22
For more information www.linear.com/3954
LT3954
PACKAGE DESCRIPTION
Please refer to http://www.linear.com/designtools/packaging/ for the most recent package drawings.
UHE Package
Variation: UHE36(28)MA
36(28)-Lead Plastic QFN (5mm × 6mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1836 Rev D)
28
27
25
24
23
21
20
0.70 ±0.05
30
1.88
± 0.05
31
5.50 ± 0.05
4.10 ± 0.05
1.50 REF
3.00 ± 0.05
32
33
16
3.00 ± 0.05
0.12
± 0.05
34
17
1.53
± 0.05
15
14
PACKAGE OUTLINE
13
0.48 ± 0.05
12
35
36
1
2
3
4
6
0.50 BSC
8
9
0.25 ±0.05
10
2.00 REF
5.10 ± 0.05
6.50 ± 0.05
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITCH AND DIMENSIONS
APPLY SOLDER MASK TO AREAS THAT ARE NOT SOLDERED
5.00 ± 0.10
0.75 ± 0.05
R = 0.10
TYP
PIN 1
TOP MARK
(NOTE 6)
30
31
32
1.50 REF
33 34 35
28
27
2.00 REF
25
24
6.00 ± 0.10
20
PIN 1 NOTCH
R = 0.30 OR
0.35 × 45°
CHAMFER
1
1.88 ± 0.10
3.00 ± 0.10
0.12
± 0.10
2
3
4
6
23
21
36
1.53 ± 0.10
0.48 ± 0.10
3.00 ± 0.10
8 R = 0.125
TYP
9
10
0.40 ± 0.10
0.200 REF
0.00 – 0.05
17 16 15
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50 BSC
14 13 12
(UHE36(28)MA) QFN 0112 REV D
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
NOTE:
1. DRAWING IS NOT A JEDEC PACKAGE OUTLINE
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 0.20mm 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
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 representaFor ofmore
information
www.linear.com/3954
tion that the interconnection
its circuits
as described
herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
3954f
23
LT3954
TYPICAL APPLICATION
10W SEPIC LED Driver
2.2µF
25V
L1, 22µH
1:1
D1
•
VIN
5V TO 15V
4.7µF
25V
499k
VIN
•
SW
EN/UVLO
147k
VREF
1M
INTVCC
CTRL
LT3954
10µF
25V
×2
182k
PGND
500mA
10.7k
165k
100k
0.5Ω
FB
VMODE
PWM
DIM/SS
VC
10nF
PWMOUT
SYNC
INTVCC
GND GNDK RT
15k
M1: VISHAY Si2306BD
L1: COILTRONICS DRQ127-220-R
D1: DIODES PDS3100
10nF
10W
LED
STRING
ISP
ISN
INTVCC
M1
1µF
28.7k
350kHz
3954 TA03a
NOTE: GND, GNDK AND SIGNAL LEVEL COMPONENTS MUST BE CONNECTED EXTERNALLY AS SHOWN.
AN INTERNAL CONNECTION BETWEEN GNDK AND PGND PINS PROVIDES GROUNDING TO THE SUPPLY
Efficiency vs VIN
EFFICIENCY (%)
100
3000:1 PWM Dimming at 120Hz
95
PWM
5V/DIV
90
ILED
0.2A/DIV
85
VIN = 15V
VLED = 20V
80
5
7
9
11
VIN (V)
13
1µs/DIV
3754 TA03c
15
3954 TA03b
RELATED PARTS
PART NUMBER
LT3955
DESCRIPTION
High Side 80V, 3.5A, 1MHz LED Driver with 3,000:1 PWM
Dimming and Internal PWM Generator
LT3956
High Side 80V, 3.5A, 1MHz LED Driver with 3,000:1 PWM
Dimming
High Side 100V, 1MHz LED Controller with 3,000:1 PWM
LT3761
Dimming and Internal PWM Generator
LT3791/LT3791-1 60V, Synchronous Buck-Boost 1MHz LED Controller
COMMENTS
VIN: 4.5V to 60V, VOUT(MAX) = 80V, 3000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
ISD < 1µA, 5mm × 6mm QFN-36
VIN: 6V to 80V, VOUT(MAX) = 80V, 3000:1 True Color PWM, Analog, ISD
< 1µA, 5mm × 6mm QFN-36
VIN: 4.5V to 60V, VOUT(MAX) = 80V, 3000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
ISD < 1µA, MSOP-16E
VIN: 4.7V to 60V, VOUT: 0V to 60V, 100:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
ISD < 1µA, TSSOP-38E
LT3755/LT3755-1 High Side 60V, 1MHz LED Controller with True Color 3,000:1 VIN: 4.5V to 40V, VOUT: 5V to 60V, 3,000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
PWM Dimming
ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm QFN-16, MSOP-16E
LT3755-2
LT3756/LT3756-1 High Side 100V, 1MHz LED Controller with 3,000:1 PWM
VIN: 6V to 100V, VOUT: 5V to 100V, 3,000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm QFN-16, MSOP-16E
LT3756-2
Dimming, Input/Output Current Limit
VIN: 5.5V to 36V, VOUT: 5.5V to 35V, 3,000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
LT3743
Synchronous Step-Down 20A LED Driver with Three-State
LED Current Control
ISD < 1µA, 4mm × 5mm QFN-28, TSSOP-28E
LT3796/LT3796-1 High Side 100V, 1MHz LED Controller with True Color 3,000:1 VIN: 6V to 100V, VOUT(MAX) = 100V, 3000:1 True Color PWM, Analog,
ISD < 1µA, TSSOP-28E
PWM Dimming
3954f
24
Linear Technology Corporation
1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417
For more information www.linear.com/3954
●
●
(408) 432-1900 FAX: (408) 434-0507
www.linear.com/3954
LT 0313 • PRINTED IN USA
 LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2013