Linear Technology Intros Triple Output Converter Buck Regulators

Linear Technology Corporation has announced its LTC3100, a triple output converter which includes a 700mA (ISW) synchronous boost regulator, a 250mA (IOUT) synchronous buck regulator and a 100mA (IOUT) LDO in a 3mm x 3mm QFN-16 package. Both the boost and the buck regulators switch at 1.5MHz and use current mode, synchronous topologies. The LTC3100’s boost converter operates from an input voltage range of 0.65V (start-up) to 5V making it compatible with single or multiple cell alkaline/NiMH and single cell Li-Ion/Polymer batteries and can deliver output voltages from 1.5V to 5.25V. The 250mA buck converter can be run directly from the output of the boost converter or from an independent 1.8V to 5.5V input and can deliver outputs as low as 0.6V. The LDO’s input is tied to the output of the boost converter and requires only 130mV of dropout voltage offering an additional low noise output adjustable down to 0.6V.



The boost converter in the LTC3100 incorporates an integrated output disconnect function for reliable operation and also regulates when VIN>VOUT, extending usable battery run-time. Its output voltage is adjustable between 1.5V and 5.25V. Both switching converters offer internal compensation, soft start and have separate Power Good pins. All three channels have independent enable pins for power sequencing. For low noise applications, the Burst Mode feature can be replaced with a lower noise forced continuous mode via an external MODE pin. Offered in a 3mm x 3mm QFN-16 package, the LTC3100 offers a very compact solution footprint. The LTC3100EUD is available from stock in a 16-lead QFN package. 1,000-piece pricing starts at $3.10 each.