Low-profile 8A DC/DC regulator saves space

A complete 8A DC/DC ?Module regulator system with on-board DC/DC controller, power switches, inductor compensation and input/output bypass capacitors has been introduced by Linear Technology Corp. The LTM4608 is the latest addition to Linear's low-voltage ?Module DC/DC regulator family.

The LTM4608 operates from a supply range of 2.375-5.5V (6V maximum) and regulates an output voltage from 0.8-5V. The complete circuit is housed in a lightweight 1g 9mm x 15mm LGA package with the low height of 2.8mm. The compact size, low profile and light weight allow these devices to be mounted on the backside of a PCB, freeing up room on the top side for FPGAs, ASICs, memory and other ICs. This family is used as a DC/DC point-of-load solution for systems that need to convert low-voltage input supplies such as 5V, 3.3V, 2.5V, or a Li-ion battery to a lower output voltage without sacrificing space or performance, said Linear.

For higher power designs, multiple 8A LTM4608 ?Module regulators can be paralleled to deliver up to 60W to a load while evenly sharing the load current. The LTM4608 features a current mode architecture that is said to deliver fast transient response, short-circuit protection and excellent line and load regulation. In addition, the device offers tracking for controlled ramp-up, ramp-down and sequencing of the output voltage as well as output voltage margining for system level testing. A power good output signal indicates when the voltage is in regulation.

The LTM4608 offers a PLL for synchronization to an external clock to reduce undesirable frequency harmonics. The ?Module regulator is rated for operation over the -40°C to 85°C temperature range. The device is RoHS-compliant; however, it can be used with Pb-based solder paste as well as Pb-free solder paste. Pricing starts at $11.30 each in quantities of 1,000.

- Gina Roos
EE Times