DC/DC controller features nonlinear control

Linear Technology Corp. has released the LTC3867 fixed frequency synchronous step-down DC/DC controller with nonlinear control. The device also features differential output voltage sensing and clock synchronization.

Nonlinear control minimizes the output voltage excursion during load transient events by increasing the operating frequency, allowing the LTC3867 to recover from a large load step in only a few cycles. This feature reduces the maximum deviation from nominal by up to 50 percent compared to traditional controllers. The LTC3867's 4–38V input range encompasses a wide variety of applications including most intermediate bus voltages. Strong onboard N-channel MOSFET gate drivers allow the use of high power external MOSFETs for high load current, up to 25A. The output voltage range is 0.6–14V, making the LTC3867 suitable for telecom, datacom, automotive and industrial applications.

The LTC3867's differential amplifier provides true remote output voltage sensing of both the positive and negative terminals, enabling high accuracy regulation independent of IR losses (up to ±300mV) in trace runs, vias and interconnects. A low 65ns minimum on-time allows for a high step-down ratio power supply at high frequency operation. The operating frequency is selectable from 200kHz–1.2MHz or can be synchronized to an external clock. The output current is monitored by sensing the voltage drop across the output inductor (DCR) for highest efficiency or by using a sense resistor. Additional features include DCR temperature compenzation, an onboard bias voltage LDO, soft-start or tracking, adjustable current limit, soft recovery from an output overcurrent condition, overvoltage protection, external VCC control and ±1 percent reference voltage accuracy over a -40–125°C operating junction temperature range.

The LTC3867 is available in a thermally enhanced 4x4mm QFN-24 package. The 1,000-piece price starts at $2.76 each.