Compact DC/DC regulator handles three outputs

From Linear Technology Corp. comes the LTM4615, a complete triple-output DC/DC ?Module regulator system containing two 4A switch mode regulators and one 1.5A very low dropout (VLDO) linear regulator in a compact 15mm x 15mm x 2.8mm surface mount package.

The output voltage for each of the two switching regulators is adjustable from 0.8V to 5V, and the third output is adjustable from 0.4V to 2.6V, making it suitable for powering the new generation of lower voltage multiple-rail 65nm and 45nm digital ICs.

The LTM4615's versatile configuration provides a compact DC/DC system, capable of regulating three outputs (4A, 4A, 1.5A) or two outputs (8A, 1.5A) while operating from one, two or three input supplies. The device's low (2.8mm) package height prevents thermal shadowing and allows smooth air flow over components in its vicinity. For systems that rely on FPGAs or ASICs requiring multiple voltage rails, the LTM4615 reduces the DC/DC BOM, shrinks board space, lowers profile, and reduces design time while offering a high reliability solution in a thermally efficient land grid array (LGA) package.

The LTM4615 includes all the components for devising a triple output point-of-load regulator: inductors, capacitors, DC/DC controllers, compensation circuitry and power switches (MOSFETs). All are encapsulated and protected within the plastic surface mount LGA package. The LTM4615 is guaranteed to have only ±2 percent total DC output error (switch-mode regulators) and ±1 percent error (VLDO), which include errors introduced by the reference voltage as well as line and load regulation. As a current mode device with high switching frequency, the LTM4615 has a fast transient response to line and load changes while operating with stability with a variety of output capacitors.

The switching regulator efficiencies are greater than 90 percent, depending on the voltage and current conditions. The device supports output voltage tracking. Safety features include short-circuit and over-temperature protection. The LTM4615 has an internal operating temperature range from -40°C to 125°C. The device is RoHS-compliant, with the ability to be soldered with Pb-free and Pb-based solder during board assembly.

The LTM4615 is available for $17.20 in 1000-piece quantities.

- Ismini Scouras
eeProductCenter