LINER LTC3717-1

LTC3717-1
Wide Operating Range,
No RSENSETM Step-Down Controller
for DDR/QDR Memory Termination
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DESCRIPTIO
FEATURES
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VOUT = 1/2 VREF
Adjustable and Symmetrical Sink/Source
Current Limit up to 20A
True Current Mode Control with Optional Use of
Sense Resistor
VON and ION Pins Allow Constant Frequency
Operation During Input and Output Voltage Changes
±0.65% Output Voltage Accuracy
Up to 97% Efficiency
Ultrafast Transient Response
2% to 90% Duty Cycle at 200kHz
tON(MIN) ≤ 100ns
Stable with Ceramic COUT
Power Good Output Voltage Monitor
Wide VIN Range: 4V to 36V
Adjustable Switching Frequency up to 1.5MHz
Output Overvoltage Protection
Optional Short-Circuit Shutdown Timer
Available in a 5mm × 5mm QFN Package
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APPLICATIO S
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Forced continuous operation reduces noise and RF interference. Output voltage is internally set to half of VREF,
which is user programmable.
Fault protection is provided by an output overvoltage
comparator and optional short-circuit shutdown timer.
Soft-start capability for supply sequencing is accomplished using an external timing capacitor. The regulator
current limit level is symmetrical and user programmable.
Wide supply range allows operation from 4V to 36V at the
VCC input.
, LTC and LT are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corporation.
No RSENSE is a trademark of Linear Technology Corporation.
QDR RAMs and Quad Data Rate RAMs comprise a new family of products developed by Cypress
Semiconductor, Hitachi, IDT, Micron Technology, Inc. and Samsung.
Bus Termination: DDR and QDR Memory, SSTL,
HSTL, ...
Notebook Computers, Desktop Servers
Tracking/Margining Power Supply
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■
The LTC®3717-1 is a synchronous step-down switching
regulator controller for double data rate (DDR) and Quad
Data RateTM (QDRTM) memory termination. The controller
uses a valley current control architecture to deliver very
low duty cycles with or without a sense resistor. Operating
frequency is selected by an external resistor and is compensated for variations in VIN and VOUT.
TYPICAL APPLICATIO
1µF
VCC
0.1µF
470pF
20k
Si7840DP
RUN/SS
TG
LTC3717-1
SW
SENSE +
ITH
BOOST
VON
0.22µF
B320A
0.68µH
+
CMDSH-3
DRVCC
INTVCC
BG
+
VDD = 2.5V
VREF
SGND
Efficiency vs Load Current
715k
VIN
2.5V TO 5.5V
ION
Si7840DP
+
150µF
6.3V
×2
VOUT
1.25V
180µF ±10A
4V
×2
B320A
VIN = 5V
80
70
VIN = 2.5V
60
50
40
20
PGND
SENSE –
VFB
VOUT = 1.25V
90
30
4.7µF
PGOOD
100
EFFICIENCY (%)
VCC
5V TO 28V
10
37171 F01a
Figure 1. High Efficiency DDR Memory Termination Supply
0
0
2
4
6
8
10
LOAD CURRENT (A)
12
14
37171 F01b
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
W W
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AXI U
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ABSOLUTE
RATI GS
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PACKAGE/ORDER I FOR ATIO
(Note 1)
Boosted Topside Driver Supply Voltage
(BOOST) ............................................... 42V to – 0.3V
VIN, ION, SW, SENSE+ Voltage .................. 36V to – 0.3V
EXTVCC, DRVCC, RUN/SS, PGOOD,
(BOOST – SW) Voltages ............................ 7V to – 0.3V
VON, VREF, VRNG Voltages .......(INTVCC + 0.3V) to – 0.3V
ITH, VFB Voltages...................................... 2.7V to – 0.3V
TG, BG, INTVCC, EXTVCC, DRVCC Peak Currents ....... 2A
TG, BG, INTVCC, EXTVCC, DRVCC RMS Currents .. 50mA
Operating Ambient Temperature
Range (Note 4) ................................... – 40°C to 85°C
Junction Temperature (Note 2) ............................ 125°C
Storage Temperature Range ................. – 65°C to 125°C
Reflow Peak Body Temperature ............................ 260°C
NC
NC
TG
BOOST
NC
NC
RUN/SS
NC
TOP VIEW
32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25
24 SW
VON 1
23 SENSE+
PGOOD 2
22 NC
VRNG 3
21 SENSE–
ITH 4
33
SGND 5
20 PGND
ION 6
19 BG
VFB 7
18 DRVCC
NC 8
17 INTVCC
VIN
EXTVCC
NC
NC
NC
NC
VREF
NC
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
UH PACKAGE
32-LEAD (5mm × 5mm) PLASTIC QFN
TJMAX = 125°C, θJA = 34°C/ W
EXPOSED PAD IS SGND (PIN 33) MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB
ORDER PART NUMBER
QFN PART MARKING
37171
LTC3717EUH-1
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges.
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The ● denotes specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are TA = 25°C. VIN = 15V, unless otherwise noted.
SYMBOL
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
Input DC Supply Current (VIN)
Normal
Shutdown Supply Current
VRUN/SS = 0V
1000
15
2000
30
µA
µA
VFB
Feedback Voltage Accuracy
ITH = 1.2V (Note 3), VREF = 2.4V
∆VFB(LINE)
Feedback Voltage Line Regulation
VIN = 4V to 36V, ITH = 1.2V (Note 3)
0.1
0.65
∆VFB(LOAD)
Feedback Voltage Load Regulation
ITH = 0.5V to 1.9V (Note 3)
gm(EA)
Error Amplifier Transconductance
ITH = 1.2V (Note 3)
tON
On-Time
ION = 30µA, VON = 0V
ION = 60µA, VON = 0V
tON(MIN)
Minimum On-Time
ION = 180µA
tOFF(MIN)
Minimum Off-Time
VSENSE(MAX)
Maximum Current Sense Threshold
VPGND – VSW (Source)
VRNG = 1V, VFB = VREF/2 – 50mV
VRNG = 0V, VFB = VREF/2 – 50mV
VRNG = INTVCC, VFB = VREF/2 – 50mV
●
●
●
108
76
148
VSENSE(MIN)
Minimum Current Sense Threshold
VPGND – VSW (Sink)
VRNG = 1V, VFB = VREF/2 + 50mV
VRNG = 0V, VFB = VREF/2 + 50mV
VRNG = INTVCC, VFB = VREF/2 + 50mV
●
●
●
–140
–97
– 200
–165
–115
– 235
Buck Regulator
IQ(VIN)
●
– 0.65
0.002
%
%/V
– 0.05
– 0.3
%
0.93
1.13
1.33
mS
186
95
233
115
280
135
ns
ns
50
100
ns
300
400
ns
135
95
185
162
114
222
mV
mV
mV
–190
–133
– 270
mV
mV
mV
●
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The ● denotes specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are TA = 25°C. VIN = 15V, unless otherwise noted.
SYMBOL
PARAMETER
∆VFB(OV)
Output Overvoltage Fault Threshold
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
8
10
12
UNITS
VFB(UV)
Output Undervoltage Threshold
VRUN/SS(ON)
RUN Pin Start Threshold
VRUN/SS(LE)
RUN Pin Latchoff Enable
VRUN/SS(LT)
RUN Pin Latchoff Threshold
RUN/SS Pin Falling
IRUN/SS(C)
Soft-Start Charge Current
VRUN/SS = 0V
– 0.5
IRUN/SS(D)
Soft-Start Discharge Current
VRUN/SS = 4.5V, VFB = 0V
0.8
VIN(UVLO)
VIN Undervoltage Lockout
VIN Falling
VIN Rising
TG RUP
TG Driver Pull-Up On Resistance
TG High (Note 5)
2
Ω
TG RDOWN
TG Driver Pull-Down On Resistance
TG Low (Note 5)
2
Ω
BG RUP
BG Driver Pull-Up On Resistance
BG High (Note 5)
3
Ω
BG RDOWN
BG Driver Pull-Down On Resistance
BG Low (Note 5)
1
Ω
TG tr
TG Rise Time
CLOAD = 3300pF
20
ns
TG tf
TG Fall Time
CLOAD = 3300pF
20
ns
BG tr
BG Rise Time
CLOAD = 3300pF
20
ns
BG tf
BG Fall Time
CLOAD = 3300pF
20
ns
%
– 25
●
0.8
RUN/SS Pin Rising
●
●
%
1.5
2
V
4
4.5
V
3.5
4.2
V
–1.2
–3
µA
1.8
3
µA
3.4
3.5
3.9
4.0
V
V
Internal VCC Regulator
VINTVCC
Internal VCC Voltage
6V < VCC < 30V, VEXTVCC = 4V
∆VLDO(LOADREG) Internal VCC Load Regulation
ICC = 0mA to 20mA, VEXTVCC = 4V
VEXTVCC
EXTVCC Switchover Voltage
ICC = 20mA, VEXTVCC Rising
∆VEXTVCC
EXTVCC Switch Drop Voltage
ICC = 20mA, VEXTVCC = 5V
∆VEXTVCC(HYS)
EXTVCC Switchover Hysteresis
●
●
4.7
4.5
5
5.3
V
– 0.1
±2
%
300
mV
4.7
150
V
200
mV
PGOOD Output
∆VFBH
PGOOD Upper Threshold
∆VFBL
∆VFB(HYS)
VPGL
VFB Rising (0% = 1/3 VREF)
8
10
12
%
PGOOD Lower Threshold
VFB Falling (0% = 1/3 VREF)
–8
– 10
– 12
%
PGOOD Hysteresis
VFB Returning (0% = 1/3 VREF)
1
2
%
PGOOD Low Voltage
IPGOOD = 5mA
0.15
0.4
V
Note 1: Absolute Maximum Ratings are those values beyond which the life
of a device may be impaired.
Note 2: TJ is calculated from the ambient temperature TA and power
dissipation PD as follows:
LTC3717EUH-1: TJ = TA + (PD • 34°C/W)
Note 3: The LTC3717EUH-1 is tested in a feedback loop that adjusts VFB to
achieve a specified error amplifier output voltage (ITH).
Note 4: The LTC3717EUH-1 is guaranteed to meet performance
specifications from 0°C to 70°C. Specifications over the –40°C to 85°C
operating temperature range are assured by design, characterization and
correlation with statistical process controls.
Note 5: RDS(ON) limit guaranteed by design and/or correlation to static
test.
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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TYPICAL PERFOR A CE CHARACTERISTICS
VOUT/VIN Tracking Ratio
vs Input Voltage
Efficiency vs Load Current
100
Frequency vs Input Voltage
50.00
VIN = 2.5V
VOUT = 1.25V
90
450
400
LOAD = 0A
49.95
80
VOUT/VIN (%)
EFFICIENCY (%)
60
50
40
30
FREQUENCY (kHz)
49.90
70
LOAD = 1A
49.85
LOAD = 10A
49.80
49.75
300
250
LOAD = 0A
200
150
100
20
49.70
10
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
0
0.01
0.1
1
10
LOAD CURRENT (A)
100
49.65
1.5
0
1.7
1.9 2.1 2.3 2.5
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2.7
1.5
1.7
1.9 2.1 2.3 2.5
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2.7
2.9
37171 G03
Start-Up Response
VOUT
200mV/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
IL
5A/DIV
IL
2A/DIV
VIN = 2.5V
20µs/DIV
VOUT = 1.25V
LOAD = 500mA TO 10A STEP
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
VIN = 2.5V
4ms/DIV
VOUT = 1.25V
LOAD = 0.2Ω
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
37171 G05
On-Time vs VON Voltage
Load Regulation
VIN = 2.5V
VOUT = 1.25V
–0.1
2.9
37171 G02
Load-Step Transient
0
VOUT = 1.25V
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
50
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
37171 G01
1000
IION = 30µA
–0.3
–0.4
IION = 30µA
250
ON-TIME (ns)
–0.2
37171 G06
On-Time vs Temperature
300
800
ON-TIME (ns)
∆VOUT/VOUT (%)
LOAD = 10A
350
600
400
200
150
100
200
–0.5
50
FIGURE 1 CIRCUIT
–0.6
0
1
2
3 4 5 6 7
LOAD CURRENT (A)
8
9
10
37171 G04
0
0
2
1
VON VOLTAGE (V)
3
37171 G07
0
–50 –25
50
25
75
0
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
125
37171 G08
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LTC3717-1
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TYPICAL PERFOR A CE CHARACTERISTICS
VVON = 0V
0
3
–0.1
2
FCB PIN CURRENT (µA)
10k
1k
∆INTVCC (%)
ON-TIME (ns)
RUN/SS Latchoff Thresholds
vs Temperature
INTVCC Load Regulation
On-Time vs ION Current
100
–0.2
–0.3
PULL-DOWN CURRENT
1
0
PULL-UP CURRENT
–0.4
10
10
ION CURRENT (µA)
–0.5
100
0
10
30
40
20
INTVCC LOAD CURRENT (mA)
37171 G09
LATCHOFF ENABLE
4.0
3.5
LATCHOFF THRESHOLD
–25
75
0
25
50
TEMPERATURE (°C)
100
3.5
3.0
2.5
2.0
–50 –25
125
37171 G12
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
2.0
2.2
2.4
2.6 2.8 3.0
RUN/SS (V)
3.2
3.4 3.6
37171 G15
125
250
200
150
100
50
0
0.50
0.75
1.00
1.25 1.50
VRNG (V)
1.75
2.00
37171 G14
Error Amplifier gm
vs Temperature
Maximum Current Sense Threshold
vs Temperature, VRNG = 1V
MAXIMUM CURRENT SENSE THRESHOLD (mV)
MAXIMUM CURRENT SENSE THRESHOLD (mV)
140
100
300
37171 G13
Maximum Current Sense Threshold
vs RUN/SS Voltage, VRNG = 1V
160
75
0
25
50
TEMPERATURE (C)
125
Maximum Current Sense Threshold
vs VRNG Voltage
MAXIMUM CURRENT SENSE THRESHOLD (mV)
UNDERVOLTAGE LOCKOUT THRESHOLD (V)
RUN/SS THRESHOLD (V)
4.5
4.0
100
37171 G11
Undervoltage Lockout Threshold
vs Temperature
5.0
50
25
0
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
37171 G10
RUN/SS Latchoff Thresholds
vs Temperature
3.0
–50
–2
–50 –25
50
180
1.50
160
1.40
140
1.30
120
1.20
gm (mS)
1
–1
100
80
1.10
1.00
60
0.90
40
0.80
20
0
–50 –30 –10 10 30 50 70 90 110 130
TEMPERATURE (°C)
0.70
–50 –30 –10 10 30 50 70 90 110 130
TEMPERATURE (°C)
37171 G16
37171 G17
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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PI FU CTIO S
VON (Pin 1): On-Time Voltage Input. Voltage trip point for
the on-time comparator. Tying this pin to the output
voltage makes the on-time proportional to VOUT. The
comparator input defaults to 0.7V when the pin is grounded,
2.4V when the pin is tied to INTVCC.
PGOOD (Pin 2): Power Good Output. Open-drain logic
output that is pulled to ground when the output voltage is
not within ±10% of the regulation point.
VRNG (Pin 3): Sense Voltage Range Input. The voltage at
this pin is ten times the nominal sense voltage at maximum output current and can be set from 0.5V to 2V by a
resistive divider from INTVCC. The nominal sense voltage
defaults to 70mV when this pin is tied to ground, 140mV
when tied to INTVCC.
ITH (Pin 4): Current Control Threshold and Error Amplifier
Compensation Point. The current comparator threshold
increases with this control voltage. The voltage ranges
from 0V to 2.4V with 0.8V corresponding to zero sense
voltage (zero current).
SGND (Pin 5)/Exposed Pad (Pin 33): Signal Ground. All
small-signal components and compensation components
should connect to this ground, which in turn connects to
PGND at one point. Pin 5 is electrically connected to the
exposed pad. Exposed pad must be soldered to PCB.
ION (Pin 6): On-Time Current Input. Tie a resistor from VIN
to this pin to set the one-shot timer current and thereby set
the switching frequency.
VFB (Pin 7): Error Amplifier Feedback Input. This pin
connects to VOUT and divides its voltage to 2/3 • VFB
through precision internal resistors before it is applied to
the input of the error amplifier. Do not apply more than
1.5V on VFB. For higher output voltages, attach an external
resistor R2 (1/2 • R1 at VREF) from VOUT to VFB.
NC (Pins 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 22, 25, 26, 29, 30, 32): Do
Not Connect.
VREF (Pin 10): Positive Input of Internal Error Amplifier.
This pin connects to an external reference and divides its
voltage to 1/3 VREF through precision internal resisters
before it is applied to the positive input of the error
amplifier. Reference voltage for output voltage, power
good threshold, and short-circuit shutdown threshold. Do
not apply more than 3V on VREF. If higher voltages are
used, connect an external resistor (R1 ≥ 160k) from
voltage reference to VREF.
EXTVCC (Pin 15): External VCC Input. When EXTVCC
exceeds 4.7V, an internal switch connects this pin to
INTVCC and shuts down the internal regulator so that
controller and gate drive power is drawn from EXTVCC. Do
not exceed 7V at this pin and ensure that EXTVCC < VIN.
VIN (Pin 16): Main Input Supply. Decouple this pin to
PGND with an RC filter (1Ω, 0.1µF).
INTVCC (Pin 17): Internal Regulator Output. The control
circuits are powered from this voltage when VIN is greater
than 5V. Decouple this pin to power ground with a minimum of 4.7µF low ESR tantalum or ceramic capacitor.
DRVCC (Pin 18): Voltage Supply to Bottom Gate Driver.
Normally connected to the INTVCC pin through a decoupling RC filter (1Ω/0.1µF). Decouple this pin to power ground
with a minimum of 4.7µF low ESR tantalum or ceramic
capacitor. Do not exceed 7V at this pin.
BG (Pin 19): Bottom Gate Drive. Drives the gate of the
bottom N-channel MOSFET between ground and DRVCC.
PGND (Pin 20): Power Ground. Connect these pins closely
to the source of the bottom N-channel MOSFET, the (–)
terminal of CVCC and the (–) terminal of CIN.
SENSE – (Pin 21): Negative Current Sense Comparator
Input. The (–) input to the current comparator is normally
connected to power ground unless using a resistive divider from INTVCC (see Applications Information).
SENSE + (Pin 23): Positive Current Sense Comparator
Input. The (+) input to the current comparator is normally
connected to the SW node unless using a sense resistor
(see Applications Information).
SW (Pin 24): Switch Node. The (–) terminal of the bootstrap capacitor CB connects here. This pin swings from a
diode voltage drop below ground up to VIN.
TG (Pin 27): Top Gate Drive. Drives the top N-channel
MOSFET with a voltage swing equal to INTVCC superimposed on the switch node voltage SW.
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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PI FU CTIO S
BOOST (Pin 28): Boosted Floating Driver Supply. The (+)
terminal of the bootstrap capacitor CB connects here. This
pin swings from a diode voltage drop below INTVCC up to
VIN + INTVCC.
RUN/SS (Pin 31): Run Control and Soft-Start Input. A
capacitor to ground at this pin sets the ramp time to full
output current (approximately 3s/µF) and the time delay
for overcurrent latchoff (see Applications Information).
Forcing this pin below 0.8V shuts down the device.
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FU CTIO AL DIAGRA
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RON
VON
1
15 EXTVCC
6 ION
16 VIN
VIN
+
CIN
4.7V
+
0.7V
–
0.8V
REF
2.4V
5V
REG
BOOST
28
TG
tON =
VVON
(10pF)
IION
S
CB
M1
27
R
Q
SW
24
ON
20k
+
SENSE+
+
ICMP
SWITCH
LOGIC
IREV
–
–
L1
23
VOUT
DB
INTVCC
17
CVCC
DRVCC
SHDN
+
18
1.4V
COUT
BG
OV
M2
19
VRNG
PGND
3
×
20
SENSE –
21
0.7V
PGOOD
2
5.7µA
1
240k
+
Q2
3/10VREF
UV
–
ITHB
R3
20k
VFB
7
Q1
R4
40k
+
Q5
SGND
OV
5
–
–
SS
+
RUN
SHDN
1.2µA
EA
+
–
–
+
VREF 10
6V
0.6V
R2
80k
11/30VREF
37171 FD01
4 ITH
R1
40k
RC
CC1
0.6V
31 RUN/SS CSS
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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OPERATIO
Main Control Loop
The LTC3717-1 is a current mode controller for DC/DC
step-down converters. In normal operation, the top
MOSFET is turned on for a fixed interval determined by a
one-shot timer OST. When the top MOSFET is turned off,
the bottom MOSFET is turned on until the current comparator ICMP trips, restarting the one-shot timer and initiating the next cycle. Inductor current is determined by
sensing the voltage between the SENSE+ and SENSE– pins
using the bottom MOSFET on-resistance . The voltage on
the ITH pin sets the comparator threshold corresponding
to inductor valley current. The error amplifier EA adjusts
this ITH voltage by comparing 2/3 of the feedback signal
VFB from the output voltage with a reference equal to 1/3
of the VREF voltage. If the load current increases, it causes
a drop in the feedback voltage relative to the reference. The
ITH voltage then rises until the average inductor current
again matches the load current. As a result in normal DDR
operation VOUT is equal to 1/2 of the VREF voltage.
The operating frequency is determined implicitly by the
top MOSFET on-time and the duty cycle required to
maintain regulation. The one-shot timer generates an ontime that is proportional to the ideal duty cycle, thus
holding frequency approximately constant with changes
in VIN. The nominal frequency can be adjusted with an
external resistor RON.
Overvoltage and undervoltage comparators OV and UV
pull the PGOOD output low if the output feedback voltage
exits a ±10% window around the regulation point.
Furthermore, in an overvoltage condition, M1 is turned off
and M2 is turned on and held on until the overvoltage
condition clears.
Pulling the RUN/SS pin low forces the controller into its
shutdown state, turning off both M1 and M2. Releasing
the pin allows an internal 1.2µA current source to charge
up an external soft-start capacitor CSS. When this voltage
reaches 1.5V, the controller turns on and begins switching, but with the ITH voltage clamped at approximately
0.6V below the RUN/SS voltage. As CSS continues to
charge, the soft-start current limit is removed.
INTVCC/EXTVCC Power
Power for the top and bottom MOSFET drivers and most
of the internal controller circuitry is derived from the
INTVCC pin. The top MOSFET driver is powered from a
floating bootstrap capacitor CB. This capacitor is recharged from INTVCC through an external Schottky diode
DB when the top MOSFET is turned off. When the EXTVCC
pin is grounded, an internal 5V low dropout regulator
supplies the INTVCC power from VCC. If EXTVCC rises
above 4.7V, the internal regulator is turned off, and an
internal switch connects EXTVCC to INTVCC. This allows
a high efficiency source connected to EXTVCC, such as an
external 5V supply or a secondary output from the
converter, to provide the INTVCC power. Voltages up to
7V can be applied to EXTVCC for additional gate drive. If
the VCC voltage is low and INTVCC drops below 3.4V,
undervoltage lockout circuitry prevents the power
switches from turning on.
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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APPLICATIO S I FOR ATIO
A typical LTC3717-1 application circuit is shown in
Figure 1. External component selection is primarily determined by the maximum load current and begins with
the selection of the sense resistance and power MOSFET
switches. The LTC3717-1 uses the on-resistance of the
synchronous power MOSFET for determining the inductor current. The desired amount of ripple current and
operating frequency largely determines the inductor value.
Finally, CIN is selected for its ability to handle the large
RMS current into the converter and COUT is chosen with
low enough ESR to meet the output voltage ripple and
transient specification.
the source of the bottom MOSFET M2 and ground. Connect the SENSE + and SENSE – pins as a Kelvin connection
to the sense resistor with SENSE + at the source of the
bottom MOSFET and the SENSE – pin to PGND. Using a
sense resistor provides a well defined current limit, but
adds cost and reduces efficiency. Alternatively, one can
eliminate the sense resistor and use the bottom MOSFET
as the current sense element by simply connecting the
SENSE + pin to the drain and the SENSE – pin to the source
of the bottom MOSFET. This improves efficiency, but one
must carefully choose the MOSFET on-resistance as discussed in a later section.
Maximum Sense Voltage and VRNG Pin
Power MOSFET Selection
Inductor current is determined by measuring the voltage
across a sense resistance that appears between the
SENSE + and SENSE – pins. The maximum sense voltage
is set by the voltage applied to the VRNG pin and is equal
to approximately (0.13)VRNG for sourcing current and
(0.17)VRNG for sinking current. The current mode control
loop will not allow the inductor current valleys to exceed
(0.13)VRNG/RSENSE for sourcing current and (0.17)VRNG
for sinking current. In practice, one should allow some
margin for variations in the LTC3717-1 and external
component values and a good guide for selecting the
sense resistance is:
The LTC3717-1 requires two external N-channel power
MOSFETs, one for the top (main) switch and one for the
bottom (synchronous) switch. Important parameters for
the power MOSFETs are the breakdown voltage V(BR)DSS,
threshold voltage V(GS)TH, on-resistance RDS(ON), reverse
transfer capacitance CRSS and maximum current IDS(MAX).
RSENSE =
VRNG
10 • IOUT (MAX)
when VRNG = 0.5 – 2V.
An external resistive divider from INTVCC can be used to
set the voltage of the VRNG pin between 0.5V and 2V
resulting in nominal sense voltages of 50mV to 200mV.
Additionally, the VRNG pin can be tied to SGND or INTVCC
in which case the nominal sense voltage defaults to 70mV
or 140mV, respectively. The maximum allowed sense
voltage is about 1.3 times this nominal value for positive
output current and 1.7 times the nominal value for negative output current.
Connecting the SENSE + and SENSE – Pins
The LTC3717-1 can be used with or without a sense
resistor. When using a sense resistor, it is placed between
The gate drive voltage is set by the 5V INTVCC supply.
Consequently, logic-level threshold MOSFETs must be
used in LTC3717-1 applications.
When the bottom MOSFET is used as the current sense
element, particular attention must be paid to its
on-resistance. MOSFET on-resistance is typically specified with a maximum value RDS(ON)(MAX) at 25°C. In this
case, additional margin is required to accommodate the
rise in MOSFET on-resistance with temperature:
RDS(ON)(MAX) =
RSENSE
ρT
The ρT term is a normalization factor (unity at 25°C)
accounting for the significant variation in on-resistance
with temperature, typically about 0.4%/°C as shown in
Figure 2. For a maximum junction temperature of 100°C,
using a value ρT = 1.3 is reasonable.
The power dissipated by the top and bottom MOSFETs
strongly depends upon their respective duty cycles and
the load current. During normal operation, the duty cycles
for the MOSFETs are:
sn37171 37171fs
9
LTC3717-1
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set by the current into the ION pin and the voltage at the VON
pin according to:
ρT NORMALIZED ON-RESISTANCE
2.0
1.5
tON =
1.0
Tying a resistor RON from VIN to the ION pin yields an ontime inversely proportional to VIN. For a step-down
converter, this results in approximately constant frequency operation as the input supply varies:
0.5
0
– 50
50
100
0
JUNCTION TEMPERATURE (°C)
150
37171 F02
Figure 2. RDS(ON) vs. Temperature
VOUT
VIN
V –V
= IN OUT
VIN
D TOP =
DBOT
VVON
(10pF )
IION
The resulting power dissipation in the MOSFETs at maximum output current are:
PTOP = DTOP IOUT(MAX)2 ρT(TOP) RDS(ON)(MAX)
+ k VIN2 IOUT(MAX) CRSS f
PBOT = DBOT IOUT(MAX)2 ρT(BOT) RDS(ON)(MAX)
Both MOSFETs have I2R losses and the top MOSFET
includes an additional term for transition losses, which are
largest at high input voltages. The constant k = 1.7A–1 can
be used to estimate the amount of transition loss. The
bottom MOSFET losses are greatest when the bottom duty
cycle is near 100%, during a short-circuit or at high input
voltage.
Operating Frequency
The choice of operating frequency is a tradeoff between
efficiency and component size. Low frequency operation
improves efficiency by reducing MOSFET switching losses
but requires larger inductance and/or capacitance in order
to maintain low output ripple voltage.
The operating frequency of LTC3717-1 applications is
determined implicitly by the one-shot timer that controls
the on-time tON of the top MOSFET switch. The on-time is
f=
VOUT
[Hz]
VVONRON (10pF )
To hold frequency constant during output voltage changes,
tie the VON pin to VOUT. The VON pin has internal clamps
that limit its input to the one-shot timer. If the pin is tied
below 0.7V, the input to the one-shot is clamped at 0.7V.
Similarly, if the pin is tied above 2.4V, the input is clamped
at 2.4V.
Because the voltage at the ION pin is about 0.7V, the
current into this pin is not exactly inversely proportional to
VIN, especially in applications with lower input voltages.
To account for the 0.7V drop on the ION pin, the following
equation can be used to calculate frequency:
f=
(VIN − 0.7V) • VOUT
VVON • VIN • RON (10pF )
To correct for this error, an additional resistor RON2
connected from the ION pin to the 5V INTVCC supply will
further stabilize the frequency.
RON2 =
5V
RON
0.7V
Changes in the load current magnitude will also cause
frequency shift. Parasitic resistance in the MOSFET
switches and inductor reduce the effective voltage across
the inductance, resulting in increased duty cycle as the
load current increases. By lengthening the on-time slightly
as current increases, constant frequency operation can be
maintained. This is accomplished with a resistive divider
from the ITH pin to the VON pin and VOUT. The values
required will depend on the parasitic resistances in the
specific application. A good starting point is to feed about
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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RVON1
30k
RVON1
3k
VON
VOUT
CVON
0.01µF
RVON2
100k
LTC3717-1
RC
ITH
VOUT
10k
CVON
0.01µF
RVON2
10k
INTVCC
VON
LTC3717-1
RC
Q1
2N5087
ITH
CC
CC
(3a)
37171 F03
(3b)
Figure 3. Adjusting Frequency Shift with Load Current Changes
25% of the voltage change at the ITH pin to the VON pin as
shown in Figure 3a. Place capacitance on the VON pin to
filter out the ITH variations at the switching frequency. The
resistor load on ITH reduces the DC gain of the error amp
and degrades load regulation, which can be avoided by
using the PNP emitter follower of Figure 3b.
Inductor L1 Selection
Given the desired input and output voltages, the inductor
value and operating frequency determine the ripple
current:
 V  V 
∆IL =  OUT   1 − OUT 
VIN 
 fL  
Lower ripple current reduces cores losses in the inductor,
ESR losses in the output capacitors and output voltage
ripple. Highest efficiency operation is obtained at low
frequency with small ripple current. However, achieving
this requires a large inductor. There is a tradeoff between
component size, efficiency and operating frequency.
A reasonable starting point is to choose a ripple current
that is about 40% of IOUT(MAX). The largest ripple current
occurs at the highest VIN. To guarantee that ripple current
does not exceed a specified maximum, the inductance
should be chosen according to:
 VOUT  
VOUT 
L=
1
−


 f ∆IL(MAX)   VIN(MAX) 
Once the value for L is known, the type of inductor must be
selected. High efficiency converters generally cannot afford the core loss found in low cost powdered iron cores,
forcing the use of more expensive ferrite, molypermalloy
or Kool Mµ® cores. A variety of inductors designed for high
current, low voltage applications are available from manufacturers such as Sumida, Panasonic, Coiltronics, Coilcraft and Toko.
Schottky Diode D1, D2 Selection
The Schottky diodes, D1 and D2, shown in Figure 1
conduct during the dead time between the conduction of
the power MOSFET switches. It is intended to prevent the
body diodes of the top and bottom MOSFETs from turning
on and storing charge during the dead time, which can
cause a modest (about 1%) efficiency loss. The diodes can
be rated for about one half to one fifth of the full load current
since they are on for only a fraction of the duty cycle. In
order for the diode to be effective, the inductance between
it and the bottom MOSFET must be as small as possible,
mandating that these components be placed adjacently.
The diodes can be omitted if the efficiency loss is tolerable.
CIN and COUT Selection
The input capacitance CIN is required to filter the square
wave current at the drain of the top MOSFET. Use a low
ESR capacitor sized to handle the maximum RMS current.
IRMS ≅ IOUT (MAX)
VOUT
VIN
VIN
–1
VOUT
This formula has a maximum at VIN = 2VOUT, where
IRMS = IOUT(MAX) / 2. This simple worst-case condition is
commonly used for design because even significant
deviations do not offer much relief. Note that ripple
current ratings from capacitor manufacturers are often
Kool Mµ is a registered trademark of Magnetics, Inc.
sn37171 37171fs
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LTC3717-1
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based on only 2000 hours of life which makes it advisable
to derate the capacitor.
The selection of COUT is primarily determined by the ESR
required to minimize voltage ripple and load step
transients. The output ripple ∆VOUT is approximately
bounded by:

1 
∆VOUT ≤ ∆IL  ESR +

8fC OUT 

Since ∆IL increases with input voltage, the output ripple is
highest at maximum input voltage. Typically, once the ESR
requirement is satisfied, the capacitance is adequate for
filtering and has the necessary RMS current rating.
Multiple capacitors placed in parallel may be needed to
meet the ESR and RMS current handling requirements.
Dry tantalum, special polymer, aluminum electrolytic and
ceramic capacitors are all available in surface mount
packages. Special polymer capacitors offer very low ESR
but have lower capacitance density than other types.
Tantalum capacitors have the highest capacitance density
but it is important to only use types that have been surge
tested for use in switching power supplies. Aluminum
electrolytic capacitors have significantly higher ESR, but
can be used in cost-sensitive applications providing that
consideration is given to ripple current ratings and long
term reliability. Ceramic capacitors have excellent low
ESR characteristics but can have a high voltage coefficient and audible piezoelectric effects. The high Q of
ceramic capacitors with trace inductance can also lead to
significant ringing. When used as input capacitors, care
must be taken to ensure that ringing from inrush currents
and switching does not pose an overvoltage hazard to the
power switches and controller. To dampen input voltage
transients, add a small 5µF to 50µF aluminum electrolytic
capacitor with an ESR in the range of 0.5Ω to 2Ω. High
performance through-hole capacitors may also be used,
but an additional ceramic capacitor in parallel is recommended to reduce the effect of their lead inductance.
Top MOSFET Driver Supply (CB, DB)
An external bootstrap capacitor CB connected to the BOOST
pin supplies the gate drive voltage for the topside MOSFET.
This capacitor is charged through diode DB from INTVCC
when the switch node is low. When the top MOSFET turns
12
on, the switch node rises to VIN and the BOOST pin rises
to approximately VIN + INTVCC. The boost capacitor needs
to store about 100 times the gate charge required by the
top MOSFET. In most applications a 0.1µF to 0.47µF X5R
or X7R dielectric capacitor is adequate.
Fault Condition: Current Limit
The maximum inductor current is inherently limited in a
current mode controller by the maximum sense voltage. In
the LTC3717-1, the maximum sense voltage is controlled
by the voltage on the VRNG pin. With valley current control,
the maximum sense voltage and the sense resistance
determine the maximum allowed inductor valley current.
The corresponding output current limit is:
ILIMITPOSITIVE =
VSNS(MAX) 1
+ ∆IL
RDS(ON)ρT 2
ILIMITNEGATIVE =
VSNS(MIN) 1
− ∆IL
RDS(ON)ρT 2
The current limit value should be checked to ensure that
ILIMIT(MIN) > IOUT(MAX). The minimum value of current limit
generally occurs with the largest VIN at the highest ambient temperature, conditions that cause the largest power
loss in the converter. Note that it is important to check for
self-consistency between the assumed MOSFET junction
temperature and the resulting value of ILIMIT which heats
the MOSFET switches.
Caution should be used when setting the current limit
based upon the RDS(ON) of the MOSFETs. The maximum
current limit is determined by the minimum MOSFET onresistance. Data sheets typically specify nominal and
maximum values for RDS(ON), but not a minimum. A
reasonable assumption is that the minimum RDS(ON) lies
the same amount below the typical value as the maximum
lies above it. Consult the MOSFET manufacturer for further
guidelines.
Minimum Off-time and Dropout Operation
The minimum off-time tOFF(MIN) is the smallest amount of
time that the LTC3717-1 is capable of turning on the
bottom MOSFET, tripping the current comparator and
turning the MOSFET back off. This time is generally about
sn37171 37171fs
LTC3717-1
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250ns. The minimum off-time limit imposes a maximum
duty cycle of tON/(tON + tOFF(MIN)). If the maximum duty
cycle is reached, due to a dropping input voltage for
example, then the output will drop out of regulation. The
minimum input voltage to avoid dropout is:
VIN(MIN) = VOUT
DRVCC
BOOST
Q3
FMMT619
Q1
FMMT619
10Ω
10Ω
GATE
OF M1
TG
Q4
FMMT720
Q2
FMMT720
tON + tOFF(MIN)
tON
GATE
OF M2
BG
PGND
SW
37171 F05
Figure 5. Optional External Gate Driver
Output Voltage Programming
When VFB is connected to VOUT, the output voltage is
regulated to one half of the voltage at the VREF pin. A
resistor connected between VFB and VOUT can be used to
further adjust the output voltage according to the following equation:
 60k + RFB 
VOUT = VREF 

 120k 
If VREF exceeds 3V, resistors should be placed in series
with the VREF pin and the VFB pin to avoid exceeding the
input common mode range of the internal error amplifier.
To maintain the VOUT = VREF/2 relationship, the resistor in
series with the VREF pin should be made twice as large as
the resistor in series with the VFB pin.
RFB
249k
VOUT
VFB
RFB
499k
VREF
LTC3717-1
VREF
37171 F04
Figure 4
Soft-Start and Latchoff with the RUN/SS Pin
The RUN/SS pin provides a means to shut down the
LTC3717-1 as well as a timer for soft-start and overcurrent latchoff. Pulling the RUN/SS pin below 0.8V puts the
LTC3717-1 into a low quiescent current shutdown
(IQ < 30µA). Releasing the pin allows an internal 1.2µA
current source to charge up the external timing capacitor
CSS. If RUN/SS has been pulled all the way to ground,
there is a delay before starting of about:
tDELAY =
(
)
1.5V
C SS = 1.3s/µF C SS
1.2µA
When the voltage on RUN/SS reaches 1.5V, the LTC37171 begins operating with a clamp on ITH of approximately
0.9V. As the RUN/SS voltage rises to 3V, the clamp on ITH
is raised until its full 2.4V range is available. This takes an
additional 1.3s/µF, during which the load current is folded
back. During start-up, the maximum load current is reduced until either the RUN/SS pin rises to 3V or the output
reaches 75% of its final value. The pin can be driven from
logic as shown in Figure 6. Diode D1 reduces the start
delay while allowing CSS to charge up slowly for the softstart function.
INTVCC
External Gate Drive Buffers
The LTC3717-1 drivers are adequate for driving up to
about 30nC into MOSFET switches with RMS currents of
50mA. Applications with larger MOSFET switches or operating at frequencies requiring greater RMS currents will
benefit from using external gate drive buffers such as the
LTC1693. Alternately, the external buffer circuit shown in
Figure 5 can be used. Note that the bipolar devices reduce
the signal swing at the MOSFET gate.
RSS*
VIN
3.3V OR 5V
D1
RUN/SS
RSS*
D2*
RUN/SS
CSS
CSS
37171 F06
*OPTIONAL TO OVERRIDE
OVERCURRENT LATCHOFF
(6a)
(6b)
Figure 6. RUN/SS Pin Interfacing with Latchoff Defeated
sn37171 37171fs
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After the controller has been started and given adequate
time to charge up the output capacitor, CSS is used as a
short-circuit timer. After the RUN/SS pin charges above
4V, if the output voltage falls below 75% of its regulated
value, then a short-circuit fault is assumed. A 1.8µA current then begins discharging CSS. If the fault condition
persists until the RUN/SS pin drops to 3.5V, then the controller turns off both power MOSFETs, shutting down the
converter permanently. The RUN/SS pin must be actively
pulled down to ground in order to restart operation.
high frequency of operation may cause the LTC3717-1 to
exceed its maximum junction temperature rating or RMS
current rating. Most of the supply current drives the
MOSFET gates unless an external EXTVCC source is used.
In continuous mode operation, this current is IGATECHG =
f(Qg(TOP) + Qg(BOT)). The junction temperature can be
estimated from the equations given in Note 2 of the
Electrical Characteristics. For example, the LTC3717EUH-1
is limited to less than 14mA from a 30V supply:
The overcurrent protection timer requires that the softstart timing capacitor CSS be made large enough to guarantee that the output is in regulation by the time CSS has
reached the 4V threshold. In general, this will depend upon
the size of the output capacitance, output voltage and load
current characteristic. A minimum soft-start capacitor can
be estimated from:
For larger currents, consider using an external supply with
the EXTVCC pin.
CSS > COUT VOUT RSENSE (10 – 4 [F/V s])
Generally 0.1µF is more than sufficient.
Overcurrent latchoff operation is not always needed or
desired. The feature can be overridden by adding a pullup current greater than 5µA to the RUN/SS pin. The
additional current prevents the discharge of C SS during a
fault and also shortens the soft-start period. Using a
resistor to VIN as shown in Figure 6a is simple, but slightly
increases shutdown current. Connecting a resistor to
INTVCC as shown in Figure 6b eliminates the additional
shutdown current, but requires a diode to isolate CSS. Any
pull-up network must be able to pull RUN/SS above the
4.2V maximum threshold of the latchoff circuit and overcome the 4µA maximum discharge current.
INTVCC Regulator
An internal P-channel low dropout regulator produces the
5V supply that powers the drivers and internal circuitry
within the LTC3717-1. The INTVCC pin can supply up to
50mA RMS and must be bypassed to ground with a
minimum of 4.7µF tantalum or other low ESR capacitor.
Good bypassing is necessary to supply the high transient
currents required by the MOSFET gate drivers. Applications using large MOSFETs with a high input voltage and
TJ = 70°C + (14mA)(30V)(34°C/W) = 84.3°C
EXTVCC Connection
The EXTVCC pin can be used to provide MOSFET gate drive
and control power from the output or another external
source during normal operation. Whenever the EXTVCC
pin is above 4.7V the internal 5V regulator is shut off and
an internal 50mA P-channel switch connects the EXTVCC
pin to INTVCC. INTVCC power is supplied from EXTVCC until
this pin drops below 4.5V. Do not apply more than 7V to
the EXTVCC pin and ensure that EXTVCC ≤ VCC. The following list summarizes the possible connections for EXTVCC:
1. EXTVCC grounded. INTVCC is always powered from the
internal 5V regulator.
2. EXTVCC connected to an external supply. A high efficiency supply compatible with the MOSFET gate drive
requirements (typically 5V) can improve overall
efficiency.
3. EXTVCC connected to an output derived boost network.
The low voltage output can be boosted using a charge
pump or flyback winding to greater than 4.7V. The system
will start-up using the internal linear regulator until the
boosted output supply is available.
Efficiency Considerations
The percent efficiency of a switching regulator is equal to
the output power divided by the input power times 100%.
It is often useful to analyze individual losses to determine
sn37171 37171fs
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what is limiting the efficiency and which change would
produce the most improvement. Although all dissipative
elements in the circuit produce losses, four main sources
account for most of the losses in LTC3717-1 circuits:
1. DC I2R losses. These arise from the resistances of the
MOSFETs, inductor and PC board traces and cause the
efficiency to drop at high output currents. In continuous
mode the average output current flows through L, but is
chopped between the top and bottom MOSFETs. If the two
MOSFETs have approximately the same RDS(ON), then the
resistance of one MOSFET can simply be summed with the
resistances of L and the board traces to obtain the DC I2R
loss. For example, if RDS(ON) = 0.01Ω and RL = 0.005Ω, the
loss will range from 1% up to 10% as the output current
varies from 1A to 10A for a 1.5V output.
2. Transition loss. This loss arises from the brief amount
of time the top MOSFET spends in the saturated region
during switch node transitions. It depends upon the input
voltage, load current, driver strength and MOSFET capacitance, among other factors. The loss is significant at input
voltages above 20V and can be estimated from:
Transition Loss ≅ (1.7A–1) VIN2 IOUT CRSS f
3. INTVCC current. This is the sum of the MOSFET driver
and control currents.
4. CIN loss. The input capacitor has the difficult job of
filtering the large RMS input current to the regulator. It
must have a very low ESR to minimize the AC I2R loss and
sufficient capacitance to prevent the RMS current from
causing additional upstream losses in fuses or batteries.
Other losses, including COUT ESR loss, Schottky diode D1
conduction loss during dead time and inductor core loss
generally account for less than 2% additional loss.
When making adjustments to improve efficiency, the input
current is the best indicator of changes in efficiency. If you
make a change and the input current decreases, then the
efficiency has increased. If there is no change in input
current, then there is no change in efficiency.
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 ∆ILOAD (ESR), where ESR is the effective series
resistance of COUT. ∆ILOAD also begins to charge or
discharge COUT generating a feedback error signal used
by the regulator 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. The ITH pin external components shown in
Figure 1 will provide adequate compensation for most
applications. For a detailed explanation of switching
control loop theory see Application Note 76.
Design Example
As a design example, take a supply with the following
specifications: VIN = VREF = 2.5V, VEXTVCC = 5V, VOUT =
1.25V ±5%, IOUT(MAX) = 10A, f = 250kHz. First, calculate
the timing resistor with VON = VOUT:
RON =
1.25V(2.5V – 0.7V)
= 514kΩ
(0.7V)(250kHz)(10pF )2.5V
and choose the inductor for about 40% ripple current at
the maximum VIN:
L=
 1.25V 
1.25V
 1−
 = 0.63µH
(250kHz)(0.4)(10A) 
2.5V 
Selecting a standard value of 0.68µH results in a maximum
ripple current of:
∆IL =
 1.25V 
1.25V
1–
 = 3.7A
(250kHz)(0.68µH) 
2.5V 
Next, choose the synchronous MOSFET switch. Choosing
a Si4874 (RDS(ON) = 0.0083Ω (NOM) 0.010Ω (MAX),
θJA = 40°C/W) yields a nominal sense voltage of:
VSNS(NOM) = (10A)(1.3)(0.0083Ω) = 108mV
sn37171 37171fs
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Tying VRNG to 1.1V will set the current sense voltage range
for a nominal value of 110mV with current limit occurring
at 143mV. To check if the current limit is acceptable,
assume a junction temperature of about 40°C above a
70°C ambient with ρ110°C = 1.4:
ILIMIT ≥
143mV
1
+ (3.7A) = 12.1A
(1.4)(0.010Ω) 2
∆VOUT(RIPPLE) = ∆IL(MAX) (ESR)
= (4A) (0.013Ω) = 52mV
and double check the assumed TJ in the MOSFET:
PBOT
2.5V – 1.25V
=
(12.1A)2 (1.4)(0.010Ω) = 1.02 W
2.5V
TJ = 70°C + (1.02W)(40°C/W) = 111°C
Because the top MOSFET is on roughly the same amount
of time as the bottom MOSFET, the same Si4874 can be
used as the synchronous MOSFET.
The junction temperatures will be significantly less at
nominal current, but this analysis shows that careful
attention to heat sinking will be necessary in this circuit.
CIN is chosen for an RMS current rating of about 5A at
85°C. The output capacitors are chosen for a low ESR of
CSS
0.1µF
TG
PGOOD
An optional 22µF ceramic output capacitor is included to
minimize the effect of ESL in the output ripple. The
complete circuit is shown in Figure 7.
PC Board Layout Checklist
When laying out a PC board follow one of the two suggested approaches. The simple PC board layout requires
a dedicated ground plane layer. Also, for higher currents,
it is recommended to use a multilayer board to help with
heat sinking power components.
CB
0.22µF
M1
Si4874
LTC3717-1
SW
VRNG
RC
20k
ITH
M2
Si4874
PGND
SENSE –
SGND
CON 0.01µF
ION
INTVCC
DRVCC
VFB
VREF
+
D1
B320A
COUT1-2
270µF
2V
×2
+
VIN = 2.5V
CIN
180µF
4V
×2
VOUT
1.25V
±10A
COUT3
22µF
6.3V
X7R
BG
VON
(OPT)
0.1µF
CIN
22µF
6.3V
X7R
D2
B320A
L1
0.68µH
SENSE +
CC2
100pF
RON
511k
∆VOUT(STEP) = ∆ILOAD (ESR) = (10A) (0.013Ω) = 130mV
BOOST
RPG
100k
VCC
EXTVCC
+
R4
39k
CC1
470pF
However, a 0A to 10A load step will cause an output
change of up to:
DB
CMDSH-3
RUN/SS
R3
11k
0.013Ω to minimize output voltage changes due to inductor ripple current and load steps. For current sinking
applications where current flows back to the input through
the top transistor, output capacitors with a similar amount
of bulk C and ESR should be placed on the input as well.
(This is typically the case, since VIN is derived from
another DC/DC converter.) The ripple voltage will be only:
CVCC
4.7µF
RF
1Ω
VEXT 5V
CF
0.1µF
10Ω
37171 F07
CIN, COUT1-2: CORNELL DUBILIER ESRE181E04B
L1: SUMIDA CEP125-0R68MC-H
Figure 7. Design Example: 1.25V/±10A at 250kHz
sn37171 37171fs
16
LTC3717-1
U
W
U U
APPLICATIO S I FOR ATIO
• The ground plane layer should not have any traces and
it should be as close as possible to the layer with power
MOSFETs.
• Place CIN, COUT, MOSFETs, D1 and inductor all in one
compact area. It may help to have some components on
the bottom side of the board.
• Place LTC3717-1 chip with Pins 15 to 28 facing the
power components. Keep the components connected
to Pins 1 to 10 close to LTC3717-1 (noise sensitive
components).
When laying out a printed circuit board, without a ground
plane, use the following checklist to ensure proper operation of the controller. These items are also illustrated in
Figure 8.
• Segregate the signal and power grounds. All small
signal components should return to the SGND pin at
one point which is then tied to the PGND pin close to the
source of M2.
• Place M2 as close to the controller as possible, keeping
the PGND, BG and SW traces short.
• Use an immediate via to connect the components to
ground plane including SGND and PGND of LTC3717-1.
Use several bigger vias for power components.
• Connect the input capacitor(s) CIN close to the power
MOSFETs. This capacitor carries the MOSFET AC current.
• Use compact plane for switch node (SW) to improve
cooling of the MOSFETs and to keep EMI down.
• Keep the high dV/dT SW, BOOST and TG nodes away
from sensitive small-signal nodes.
• Use planes for VIN and VOUT to maintain good voltage
filtering and to keep power losses low.
• Connect the INTVCC and DRVCC decoupling capacitor
CVCC closely to the INTVCC, DRVCC and PGND pins.
• Flood all unused areas on all layers with copper. Flooding with copper will reduce the temperature rise of
power component. You can connect the copper areas to
any DC net (VIN, VOUT, GND or to any other DC rail in
your system).
• Connect the top driver boost capacitor CB closely to the
BOOST and SW pins.
CB
CSS
RUN/SS
BOOST
PGOOD
TG
L
DB
LTC3717-1
VRNG
SW
ITH
PGND
SENSE –
CC2
SGND
CION
CFB
M2
BG
D2
D1
VIN
CIN
CVCC
VON
ION
+
M1
SENSE +
RC
INTVCC
–
+
CC1
• Connect the VCC pin decoupling capacitor CF closely to
the VCC and PGND pins.
–
DRVCC
VFB
VREF
VCC
EXTVCC
VOUT
COUT
CF
+
RF
RON
BOLD LINES INDICATE HIGH CURRENT PATHS
37171 F08
Figure 8. LTC3717-1 Layout Diagram
sn37171 37171fs
17
LTC3717-1
U
TYPICAL APPLICATIO S
1.5V/±10A at 300kHz from 5V to 28V Input
CSS
0.1µF
RR1
11k
DB
CMDSH-3
RR2
39k
RUN/SS
BOOST
PGOOD
TG
RPG
100k
CB
0.22µF
M1
IRF7811W
B320A
LTC3717-1
CC1
680pF
VRNG
RC
20k
L1
1.2µH
SW
SENSE +
CC2
100pF
M2
IRF7822
PGND
ITH
SENSE –
BG
SGND
CON 0.01µF
+
D1
B320A
VIN
CIN 5V TO 28V
10µF
35V
VOUT
×3
1.5V
±10A
COUT
270µF
2V
×2
VON
INTVCC
ION
CVCC
4.7µF
DRVCC
VFB
VCC
EXTVCC
VREF
VREF 3V
10µF
6.3V
X7R
RON
510k
37171 TA01
COUT: CORNELL DUBILIER ESRE271M02B
High Voltage Half (VIN) Power Supply
CSS
0.1µF
DB
CMDSH-3
RUN/SS
BOOST
RPG
100k
PGOOD
CC1
470pF
TG
LTC3717-1
VRNG
SW
RC
20k
CC2
100pF
M2
FDS6680S
PGND
SENSE –
SGND
CON 0.01µF
+
COUT1
270µF
16V
VIN
5V TO 25V
VOUT
VIN/2
±6A
COUT2
10µF
15V
BG
VON
ION
INTVCC
DRVCC
VCC
VFB
RON
510k
CIN
10µF
25V
×2
M1
FDS6680S
L1
1.8µH
SENSE +
ITH
R2
1M
CB
0.22µF
VREF
EXTVCC
CVCC
4.7µF
RF
1Ω
CF
0.1µF
R1 2M
C2
2200pF
37171 TA02
CIN: TAIYO YUDEN TMK432BJ106MM
COUT1: SANYO, OS-CON 16SP270
COUT2: TAIYO YUDEN JMK316BJ106ML
L1: TOKO 919AS-1R8N
sn37171 37171fs
18
LTC3717-1
U
PACKAGE DESCRIPTIO
UH Package
32-Lead Plastic QFN (5mm × 5mm)
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1693)
0.57 ±0.05
5.35 ±0.05
4.20 ±0.05
3.45 ±0.05
(4 SIDES)
PACKAGE OUTLINE
0.23 ± 0.05
0.50 BSC
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
5.00 ± 0.10
(4 SIDES)
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
R = 0.115
TYP
0.75 ± 0.05
0.00 – 0.05
0.40 ± 0.10
31 32
PIN 1
TOP MARK
1
2
3.45 ± 0.10
(4-SIDES)
(UH) QFN 0102
0.200 REF
NOTE:
1. DRAWING PROPOSED TO BE A JEDEC PACKAGE OUTLINE
M0-220 VARIATION WHHD-(X) (TO BE APPROVED)
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
0.23 ± 0.05
0.50 BSC
sn37171 37171fs
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
LTC3717-1
U
TYPICAL APPLICATIO
Typical Application 1.25V/±3A at 1.4MHz
CSS
0.1µF
DB
CMDSH-3
RUN/SS
BOOST
RPG
100k
PGOOD
TG
CB
0.22µF
+
M1
1/2 Si9802
LTC3717-1
CC1
470pF
VRNG
RC
33k
SW
+
SENSE +
ITH
CC2
100pF
M2
1/2 Si9802
PGND
SENSE –
SGND
CON, 0.01µF
VIN
2.5V
VOUT
1.25V
±3A
COUT
120µF
4V
BG
VON
ION
L1
0.7µH
CIN
120µF
4V
INTVCC
CVCC
4.7µF
DRVCC
VFB
VREF
VCC
5V
EXTVCC
1µF
RON
92k
3717 TA03
CIN, COUT: CORNELL DUBILIER ESRD121M04B
L1: TOKO A921CY-0R7M
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Burst Mode is a registered trademark of Linear Technology Corporation.
sn37171 37171fs
20 Linear Technology Corporation
LT/TP 0603 1K • PRINTED IN USA
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