LT3840MPFE#TRPBF

PMIC - Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Controllers

The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF is an efficient and robust monolithic synchronous 4-phase DC-DC controller. It allows for high-performance point of load (POL) voltage regulation with the advantages that come with a 4-phase control scheme. The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF is designed to work with N-channel MOSFETs in the power stage and is capable of peak currents up to 20A. The device features an integrated divider and a precision reference output for a fast transient response to line variations.

Application Field

The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF is ideal for applications where tight load regulation, low quiescent current and high bandwidth are needed. It is also well suited for DC-DC converters with a large output current dynamic range. Examples of typical applications include ultra-low voltage (0.8V) point-of-load regulation, FPGA/DSP core and I/O regulation, and telecom DC-DC power regulation.

Working Principle

The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF adopts a 4-phase control scheme, which is a key factor in achieving improved efficiency, smaller parts count, and greater power density. A 4-phase control scheme is similar to a 2-phase control scheme, but it has two advantages: faster voltage sensing and fewer lower switching frequency peaks. The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF also incorporates Ripple-Mode (RM) control, which improves light load efficiency and allows the use of lower ripple transitions at light loop bandwidths.

Ripple-mode control works by sensing the output current ripple, which is the difference between the output power and the average power during each pulse. Then, it uses a feedback loop to adjust the duty cycle of the MOSFETs, resulting in increased light load efficiency. The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF also has a number of other important features, including OVP, Soft Start, power good comparator, and Power OK output.

Benefits

A key benefit of the LT3840MPFE#TRPBF is the higher level of performance and efficiency it offers in comparison to traditional, lower-cost alternatives. It features a high degree of integration, allowing designers to reduce both form factor and parts count. It is also capable of operating at fast converter speeds, allowing designers to reduce output capacitor size and save board space. Finally, the device is built with a focus on reliability, offering protection against over-current, over-voltage, under-voltage and thermal runaway.

Conclusion

The LT3840MPFE#TRPBF is ideal for a wide range of applications requiring high-performance, efficiency and reliability. It is designed to work with N-channel MOSFETs in the power stage and incorporates Ripple-Mode (RM) control to improve light load efficiency. It offers a high degree of integration, allowing designers to reduce both form factor and parts count. With its fast converter speeds, it is an ideal choice for power supply designs where high levels of performance, efficiency and reliability are required.