LT3686A
37V/1.2A Step-Down
Regulator in 3mm × 3mm DFN
and MSE
Description
Features
Wide Input Range:
Operation from 3.6V to 37V
Overvoltage Lockout Protects Circuit Through
60V Transients
■ Low Minimum On-Time:
Converts 16VIN to 3.3VOUT at 2MHz
■ 1.2A Output Current
■ Adjustable Frequency: 300kHz to 2.5MHz
■ Constant Switching Frequency at Light Loads
■ Can Be Synchronized to External Clock
■ Tracking and Soft-Start
■ Precision UVLO
■ Short-Circuit Robust
■ I in Shutdown 0.8V, BD < 6V
100
110
150
200
Switch VCESAT
ISW = 1.2A
680
Switch Current Limit
(Note 3)
0.3
1.9
Minimum Off Time
●
Switch Active Current
1.9
1.85
SW = 10V (Note 4)
SW = 0V (Note 5)
2.6
2.65
A
A
400
20
600
30
µA
µA
BOOST Pin Current
ISW = 1.2A
20
ISW = 1.2A
2.2
Max BD Pin Active Load Current
SYNC/MODE > 0.8V, BD < 6V
30
40
6
6.5
●
1.2
1.7
●
0.8
BD Pin Voltage to Disable Active Load
●
DA Pin Current to Stop OSC
SYNC/MODE High
SYNC/MODE Low
●
EN/UVLO Bias Current
VEN/UVLO = 10V
VEN/UVLO = 0V
EN/UVLO Threshold to Turn Off
1.3
●
EN/UVLO Hysteresis Current
IBD to IBOOST = 200mA
Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device
reliability and lifetime.
Note 2: The LT3686AE is guaranteed to meet performance specifications
from 0°C to 125°C junction temperature. Specifications over the –40°C
to 125°C operating junction temperature range are assured by design,
characterization and correlation with statistical process controls. The
LT3686AI is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating junction
temperature range. The LT3686AH is guaranteed over the full –40°C to
150°C operating junction temperature range. High junction temperatures
degrade operating lifetimes; operating lifetime is derated for junction
temperatures greater than 125°C. (Note 6)
V
mA
7
V
A
0.4
V
0.2
µA
2.7
µA
40
1
µA
µA
0.9
VSS = 1V
Boost Diode Forward Drop
mA
2.4
V
SYNC/MODE Bias Current
SS Threshold
ns
mV
2.3
2.3
Minimum Boost Voltage Above Switch
SS Source Current
UNITS
2
V
1.22
1.28
1.34
V
1.8
2.4
3
µA
0.85
V
Note 3: Current limit guaranteed by design and/or correlation to static test.
Slope compensation reduces current limit at higher duty cycle.
Note 4: Current flows into pin.
Note 5: Current flows out of pin.
Note 6: This IC includes overtemperature protection that is intended to protect
the device during momentary overload conditions. Junction temperature will
exceed the maximum operating junction temperature when overtemperature
protection is active. Continuous operation above the specified maximum
operating junction temperature may impair device reliability. See High
Temperature Considerations section. Also see Operation section.
Note 7: Absolute Maximum Voltage at VIN and EN/UVLO pins is 60V for
nonrepetitive one second transients, and 55V for continuous operation.
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LT3686A
Typical Performance Characteristics
5VOUT Efficiency
3.3VOUT Efficiency (2MHz)
90
30
VIN = 12V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
20
10
0
200
800 1000
600
400
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
50
MODE/SYNC < 0.4V
40
30
10
0
200
800 1000
600
400
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
3686A G01
10
20
VIN (V)
30
40
3686A G03
Internal Undervoltage Lockout
(UVLO)
4.0
700
3.5
600
MINIMUM
VSW (mV)
IOUT (A)
0
800
1.0
0.8
500
400
3.0
300
0.6
0.4
10
20
VIN (V)
30
100
40
0
500
0
1000
1500
ISW (mA)
2000
Overvoltage Lockout (OVLO)
2.0
–50
0
50
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
150
3686A G06
VFB vs Temperature
40
820
39
810
38
VFB (mV)
VIN (V)
2500
3686A G05
3686A G04
37
800
790
36
35
–50
2.5
150°C
125°C
25°C
–50°C
200
VOUT = 5V
L = 10µH
f = 2MHz
0.2
0
0
1200
900
1.6
1.2
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
0.2
Switch Voltage Drop
TYPICAL
1.4
0.8
3686A G02
5VOUT Maximum Load Current
1.8
1.0
0.4
VIN (V)
2.0
1.2
0.6
VIN = 12V
VOUT = 5V
L = 10µH
f = 2MHz
20
0
MINIMUM
1.4
60
1200
TYPICAL
1.6
IOUT (A)
EFFICIENCY (%)
MODE/SYNC < 0.4V
40
1.8
MODE/SYNC > 0.8V
70
60
50
2.0
80
MODE/SYNC > 0.8V
70
EFFICIENCY (%)
3.3VOUT Maximum Load Current
90
80
0
TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted.
0
50
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
150
3686A G07
780
–50
0
50
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
150
3686A G08
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LT3686A
Typical Performance Characteristics
Switching Frequency vs
Temperature
Switching Frequency vs RT
2.20
FREQUENCY (MHz)
250
RT (kΩ)
200
150
100
50
0
Soft-Start/Track vs Frequency
(1MHz)
1200
RT = 15.4k
2.15
1000
2.10
800
FREQUENCY (kHz)
300
2.05
2.00
0
0.5
1
1.5
FREQUENCY (MHz)
2
1.90
–50
2.5
0
50
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
600
30
400
300
20
15
5
0
0
1000
1200
0
10
20
30
EN/UVLO (V)
40
3.0
1.0
–50
50
SWITCH PEAK
MODE/SYNC > 0.8
30
25
MODE/SYNC < 0.4
15
VIN (V)
VIN (V)
150
5VOUT Maximum VIN for Full
Frequency (2MHz)
MODE/SYNC > 0.8
2.0
1.0
50
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
35
20
DA VALLEY
0
3686A G14
25
2.5
CURRENT LIMIT (A)
1.5
3.3VOUT Maximum VIN for Full
Frequency (2MHz)
Current Limit vs Duty Cycle
2500
2.0
3686A G13
3686A G12
1.5
2000
2.5
25
100
600
800
SS (mV)
1000
1500
SS (mV)
3.0
10
200
400
500
Switch Current Limit vs
Temperature
CURRENT LIMIT (A)
35
EN/UVLO (µA)
FB (mV)
700
500
0
3686A G11
45
40
10
MODE/SYNC < 0.4
20
15
10
5
0.5
0
0
150
EN/UVLO Pin Current
800
200
400
3686A G10
Soft-Start/Track vs VFB
0
600
200
1.95
3686A G09
900
TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted.
0
25
50
75
DUTY CYCLE (%)
100
3686A G15
0
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
0
500
1000
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
1500
3686A G16
VOUT = 5V
L = 10µH
f = 2MHz
5
0
0
1000
500
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
3686A G17
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LT3686A
Typical Performance Characteristics
3.3VOUT Typical Minimum Input
Voltage
8
6
7
VIN (V)
3
IL
200mA/DIV
4
2
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 15µH
f = 1MHz
1
1
10
100
1000
VOUT = 5V
L = 22µH
f = 1MHz
1
0
3686A G20
200ns/DIV
3
2
0
VSW
2V/DIV
MODE/SYNC > 0.8
5
MODE/SYNC > 0.8
Continuous Mode Waveform
MODE/SYNC < 0.4
6
MODE/SYNC < 0.4
4
VIN (V)
5VOUT Typical Minimum Input
Voltage
7
5
TA = 25°C unless otherwise noted.
10
1
ILOAD (mA)
100
1000
VIN = 10V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
COUT = 22µF
ILOAD = 200mA
MODE/SYNC = 0V
ILOAD (mA)
3686A G18
3686A G19
Fixed Frequency No Load
Waveform
Light Load Discontinuous Mode
Waveform
Start-Up Shutdown Waveform
ILOAD = 5mA
VIN
1V/DIV
VSW
2V/DIV
VSW
2V/DIV
IL
200mA/DIV
IL
200mA/DIV
3686A G21
200ns/DIV
VIN = 10V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
COUT = 22µF
ILOAD = 25mA
MODE/SYNC = 0V
Start-Up Shutdown Waveform
ILOAD = 5mA
VIN
1V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
3686A G22
200ns/DIV
VIN = 10V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
f = 2MHz
COUT = 22µF
ILOAD = 0mA
MODE/SYNC = 3.3V
Start-Up Shutdown Waveform
ILOAD = 500mA
200ms/DIV
VOUT = 5V
L = 22µH
f = 1MHz
ILOAD = 5mA
MODE/SYNC = 1V
VIN
1V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
3686A G24
3686A G23
Start-Up Shutdown Waveform
ILOAD = 500mA
VIN
1V/DIV
VOUT
1V/DIV
200ms/DIV
VOUT = 5V
L = 22µH
f = 1MHz
ILOAD = 5mA
MODE/SYNC = 0V
200ms/DIV
VOUT = 5V
L = 22µH
f = 1MHz
ILOAD = 500mA
MODE/SYNC = 0V
VOUT
1V/DIV
3686A G25
200ms/DIV
VOUT = 5V
L = 22µH
f = 1MHz
ILOAD = 500mA
MODE/SYNC = 1V
3686A G26
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LT3686A
Pin FunCtions
(DFN/MSE)
VIN (Pin 1/2): The VIN pin supplies current to the LT3686A’s
internal regulator and to the internal power switch. This
pin must be locally bypassed.
BD (Pin 2/3): When the SYNC/MODE Pin is driven with
clock pulses or tied greater than 0.8V, the LT3686A will
prevent pulse-skipping at light loads by regulating an
active load on the BD pin; see Applications Information
section Fixed Frequency at Light Load.
FB (Pin 3/4): The LT3686A regulates its feedback pin to
0.8V. Connect the feedback resistor divider tap to this pin.
Set the output voltage according to:
V
R1= R2 OUT – 1
0.8V
A good value for R2 is 10k.
SS (Pin 4/5): Provides Soft-Start and Tracking. An internal
2µA current source tied to a 2.5V reference supplies current to this pin to charge an external capacitor to create a
voltage ramp at the pin. Feedback voltage and switching
frequency both track SS voltage. Feedback voltage stops
tracking at 0.8V. SS is reset under UVLO, OVLO and thermal
shutdown conditions. Float the pin if soft-start feature is
not being used.
RT (Pin 5/6): The RT pin is used to program the oscillator
frequency. Select the value of RT resistor according to table
1 in the applications section of the data sheet.
EN/UVLO (Pin 6/7): The EN/UVLO pin is used to start
up the LT3686A. Pull the pin below 0.4V to shutdown the
LT3686A. The 1.28V threshold can function as an accurate
undervoltage lockout (UVLO), preventing the regulator
from operating until the input voltage has reached the
programmed level. Do not drive the EN/UVLO pin above VIN.
SYNC/MODE (Pin 7/8): The SYNC/MODE pin is used
to synchronize the internal oscillator of the LT3686A to
an external signal. The SYNC signal can be driven by a
signal with pulse width of at least 200ns on and off time.
The SYNC/MODE Pin also acts as mode select for the BD
active load; when it is driven with pulses or tied above
0.8V, the LT3686A will prevent pulse skipping at light loads
by regulating an active load on the BD pin. To disable the
active load, tie SYNC/MODE to below 0.4V.
BOOST (Pin 8/9): The BOOST pin is used to provide a
drive voltage, higher than the input voltage, to the internal
bipolar NPN power switch.
DA (Pin 9/10): Connect catch diode (D1) anode to this
pin.
SW (Pin 10/11, 12): The SW pin is the output of the
internal power switch. Connect this pin to the inductor,
catch diode and boost capacitor.
GND (Exposed Pad Pin 11/Pin 1, Exposed Pad Pin 13):
The exposed pad GND pin is the only ground connection
for the device. The exposed pad should be soldered to a
large copper area to reduce thermal resistance.
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LT3686A
Block Diagram
BOOST
VIN
VIN
R4
C2
EN/ULVO
OFF ON
R5
INT REG
UVLO
OVLO
DRIVER
1.27V
C3
Q1
SW
L1
R1
FB
SS
R2
VOUT
C1
BD
–
+
+
D1
gm
ACTIVE
LOAD
VC
SLOPE
COMP
C4
R
Q
S
Q
0.8V
DA
OSC
FREQUENCY FOLDBACK
GND
RT
SYNC/MODE
3686A BD
R3
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LT3686A
Operation
The LT3686A is a current mode step-down regulator.
The EN/UVLO pin is used to place the LT3686A in shutdown. The 1.28V threshold on the EN/UVLO pin can be
programmed by an external resistor divider (R4, R5) to
disable the LT3686A. When the EN/UVLO pin is driven
above 1.28V, an internal regulator provides power to the
control circuitry. This regulator includes both overvoltage
and undervoltage lockout to prevent switching when VIN
is more than 37V or less than 3.6V.
Tracking soft-start is implemented by providing constant
current via the SS pin to an external soft-start capacitor
(C4) to generate a voltage ramp. FB voltage is regulated
to the voltage at the SS pin until it exceeds 0.8V; FB
is then regulated to the reference 0.8V. Soft-start also
reduces the oscillator frequency to avoid hitting current
limit during start-up. The SS capacitor is reset during
fault events such as overvoltage, undervoltage, thermal
shutdown and startup.
An oscillator is programmed by resistor RT. The oscillator
sets an RS flip-flop, turning on the internal 1.2A power
switch Q1. An amplifier and comparator monitor the current flowing between the VIN and SW pins, turning the
switch off when this current reaches a level determined by
the voltage at VC. An error amplifier measures the output
voltage through an external resistor divider tied to the FB
pin and servos the VC node. If the error amplifier’s output
increases, more current is delivered to the output; if it
decreases, less current is delivered. An active clamp (not
shown) on the VC node provides current limit.
The switch driver operates from either VIN or from the
BOOST pin. An external capacitor and the internal boost
diode are used to generate a voltage at the BOOST pin that
is higher than the input supply. This allows the driver to
fully saturate the internal bipolar NPN power switch for
efficient operation.
A comparator monitors the current flowing through the
catch diode via the DA pin and reduces the LT3686A’s
operating frequency when the DA pin current exceeds the
1.7A valley current limit. This helps to control the output
current in fault conditions such as shorted output with high
input voltage. The DA comparator works in conjunction
with the switch peak current limit comparator to determine
the maximum deliverable current of the LT3686A.
The SYNC/MODE pin doubles as mode select for the
BD active load circuit. The active load is enabled when
SYNC/MODE is driven with sync pulses or tied above
0.8V and disabled when SYNC/MODE is tied below 0.4V.
The LT3686A will prevent pulse skipping at light loads
by regulating the active load. The active load will assist
startup by guaranteeing a minimum load to charge the
boost capacitor. It also hastens the recharge of boost
capacitor when operating beyond maximum duty cycle.
The active load works only when the BD pin is less than 6V.
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LT3686A
Applications Information
FB Resistor Network
45
The output voltage is programmed with a resistor divider
between the output and the FB pin. Choose the 1% resistors according to:
40
EN/UVLO (µA)
35
⎛V
⎞
R1= R2 ⎜ OUT – 1⎟
⎝ 0.8V ⎠
30
25
20
15
10
R2 should be 20k or less to avoid bias current errors.
Reference designators refer to the Block Diagram.
5
0
0
10
Programmable Undervoltage Lockout
V
R4 = R5 IN – 1
1.28V
R4 also sets the hysteresis voltage for the programmable
UVLO:
Hysteresis = R4 • 2.4µA
Once VIN drops below the programmed voltage, the
LT3686A will enter a low quiescent current state (Iq ≈
15µA). To shutdown the LT3686A completely (Iq < 1µA),
reduce EN/UVLO pin voltage to below 0.4V.
10000
50
Figure 2. EN/UVLO Pin Current
Input Voltage Range
The input voltage range for the LT3686A applications
depends on the output voltage and on the absolute maximum ratings of the VIN and BOOST pins. The minimum
input voltage is determined by either the LT3686A’s
minimum operating voltage of 3.6V, or by its maximum
duty cycle.
The duty cycle is the fraction of time that the internal
switch is on and is determined by the input and output
voltages:
VOUT + VD
DC =
VIN – VSW + VD
Where VD is the forward voltage drop of the catch diode
(~0.4V) and VSW is the voltage drop of the internal switch
(~0.67V at maximum load). This leads to a minimum input
voltage of:
1000
100
IQ (µA)
40
3686A F02
The EN/UVLO pin can be programmed by an external resistor divider between VIN and the EN/UVLO pin. Choose
the resistors according to:
10
1
0.1
20
30
EN/UVLO (V)
VIN(MIN) =
VOUT + VD
– VD + VSW
DCMAX
DCMAX can be adjusted with frequency.
0
1
2
3
4
5
EN/UVLO (V)
6
7
8
3686A F01
Figure 1. IQ vs VEN/UVLO (VIN = 10V)
The boost capacitor is charged with the energy stored in the
inductor, the circuit will rely on some minimum load current
to sustain the charge across the boost capacitor.
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LT3686A
Applications Information
The maximum input voltage is determined by the absolute
maximum ratings of the VIN and BOOST pins. For fixed
frequency operation, the maximum input voltage is determined by the minimum duty cycle DCMIN:
VIN(MAX) =
VOUT + VD
– VD + VSW
DCMIN
DCMIN can be adjusted with frequency. Note that this is a
restriction on the operating input voltage for fixed frequency
operation; the circuit will tolerate transient inputs up to the
absolute maximum ratings of the VIN and BOOST pins.
Minimum On Time
As the input voltage is increased, the LT3686A is required
to switch for shorter periods of time. Delays associated
with turning off the power switch dictate the minimum on
time of the part. The minimum on time for the LT3686A
is 100ns (Figure 3).
When the required on time decreases below the typical
minimum on time of 100ns, instead of the switch pulse
width becoming narrower to accommodate the lower duty
cycle requirement, the switch pulse width remains fixed at
100ns. The inductor current ramps up to a value exceeding the load current and the output ripple increases. The
part then remains off until the output voltage dips below
the programmed value before it begins switching again
(Figure 4).
VSW
20V/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
100mA/DIV
AC
2µs/DIV
3686A F04
VIN = 35V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
IOUT = 300mA
Figure 4. Pulse Skip Occurs When Required On Time Is
Below 100ns
VSW
10V/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
100mV/DIV
AC
500ns/DIV
3686A F03
VIN = 18V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
ILOAD = 1.2mA
Figure 3. Continuous Mode Operation Near Minimum On Time
Provided that the load can tolerate the increased output
voltage ripple and that the components have been properly selected, operation while pulse skipping is safe and
will not damage the part. As the input voltage increases,
the inductor current ramps up quicker, the number of
skipped pulses increases, and the output voltage ripple
increases.
Inductor current may reach current limit when operating
in pulse skip mode with small valued inductors. In this
case, the LT3686A will periodically reduce its frequency
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LT3686A
Applications Information
to keep the inductor valley current to 1.7A (Figure 5). Peak
inductor current is therefore peak current plus minimum
switch delay:
1.7A + (VIN – VOUT )/L • 100ns
VSW
10V/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
100mA/DIV
AC
2µs/DIV
3686A F05
VIN = 35V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
IOUT = 1.2A
Table 1. RT vs Frequency
FREQUENCY (MHz)
RT (kΩ)
MIN SYNC FREQUENCY (MHz)
2.5
9.53
N/A
2.3
12.1
N/A
2.1
15.4
N/A
1.9
20.0
N/A
1.8
22.6
2.50
1.7
25.5
2.30
1.5
31.6
1.99
1.3
40.2
1.70
1.1
52.3
1.42
0.9
69.8
1.14
0.7
97.6
0.874
0.5
150
0.615
0.3
280
0.363
Figure 5. Pulse Skip with Large Load Current Will Be Limited by
the DA Valley Current Limit. Notice the Flat Inductor Valley
Current and Reduced Switching Frequency
250
200
RT (kΩ)
The part is robust enough to survive prolonged operation under these conditions as long as the peak inductor
current does not exceed 2A. Inductor current saturation
and junction temperature may further limit performance
during this operating regime.
300
100
50
Frequency Selection
0
0
0.5
1
1.5
FREQUENCY (MHz)
2
2.5
3686A F06a
Figure 6a. Switching Frequency vs RT
40
35
30
INDUCTANCE (µH)
The maximum frequency that the LT3686A can be programmed to is 2.5MHz. The minimum frequency that the
LT3686A can be programmed to is 300kHz. The switching
frequency is programmed by tying a 1% resistor from the
RT pin to ground. Table 1 can be used to select the value
of RT. Minimum on-time and edge loss must be taken into
consideration when selecting the intended frequency of
operation. Higher switching frequency increases power
dissipation and lowers efficiency. Finite transistor bandwidth limits the speed at which the power switch can be
turned on and off, effectively setting the minimum on-time
of the LT3686A. For a given output voltage, the minimum
on-time determines the maximum input voltage to remain
in continuous mode operation outlined in the Minimum On
Time section of the data sheet. Finite transition time results
in a small amount of power dissipation each time the power
switch turns on and off (edge loss). Edge loss increases
with frequency, switch current, and input voltage.
150
5VOUT
25
12VOUT
20
15
3.3VOUT
10
5
0
0.25
0.75
1.25
1.75
FREQUENCY (MHz)
2.25
3686A F06b
Figure 6b. Suggested Inductance vs Frequency
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LT3686A
Applications Information
The SYNC/MODE pin is used to synchronize the internal
oscillator with an external square wave. The synchronizing clock signal to the LT3686A should be below 2.5MHz
with pulse width of at least 200ns on and off time, a low
state below 0.4V and a high state above 0.8V. The SYNC
frequency must be higher than the RT programmed frequency; see Table 1.
Using a smaller value inductor will increase inductor current
ripple and reduce the VIN voltage at which the active load
can keep the LT3686A at full switching frequency.
The SYNC/MODE pin doubles as mode select for the
BD active load circuit. The active load is enabled when
SYNC/MODE is driven with clock pulses or tied greater
than 0.8V and disabled when SYNC/MODE is tied below
0.4V. See Fixed Frequency at Light Load section.
There are several graphs in the Typical Performance
Characteristics section of this data sheet that show the
maximum load current as a function of input voltage and
inductor value for several popular output voltages. Low
inductance may result in discontinuous mode operation, which is okay, but further reduces maximum load
current. For details of the maximum output current and
discontinuous mode operation, see Linear Technology
Application Note 44. Finally, for duty cycles greater than
50% (VOUT/VIN > 0.5), there is a minimum inductance
required to avoid subharmonic oscillations. See Linear
Technology Application Note 19.
Inductor Selection and Maximum Output Current
Catch Diode
A good first choice for the inductor value is:
A low capacitance 1-2A Schottky diode is recommended
for the catch diode, D1. The diode must have a reverse
voltage rating equal to or greater than the maximum input
voltage. The MBRM140 is a good choice; it is rated for
1A continuous forward current and a maximum reverse
voltage of 40V.
The inductor value should be chosen based on the RT
frequency rather than the highest synchronization frequency.
L=
4(VOUT + VD)
f
where VD is the voltage drop of the catch diode (~0.4V), L
is in μH, frequency is in MHz. With this value there will be
no subharmonic oscillation. The inductor’s RMS current
rating must be greater than the maximum load current
and its saturation current should be about 30% higher. For
robust operation during fault conditions, the saturation
current should be above 2A. To keep efficiency high, the
series resistance (DCR) should be less than 0.1Ω. Table 2
lists several vendors and types that are suitable. For small
size, the inductor can be chosen according to:
L=
2(VOUT + VD)
f
Input Capacitor
Bypass the input of the LT3686A circuit with a 2.2μF or
higher value ceramic capacitor of X7R or X5R type. Y5V
types have poor performance over temperature and applied voltage and should not be used. A 2.2μF ceramic is
adequate to bypass the LT3686A and will easily handle
the ripple current. However, if the input power source has
high impedance, or there is significant inductance due to
long wires or cables, additional bulk capacitance may be
Table 2.
VENDOR
URL
PART SERIES
INDUCTANCE RATE(µH)
SIZE (mm)
Sumida
www.sumida.com
CDRH4D28
CDRH5D28
CDRH8D28
1.2 to 4.7
2.5 to 10
2.5 to 33
4.5 x 4.5
5.5 x 5.5
8.3 x 8.3
www.toko.com
A916CY
D585LC
2 to 12
1.1 to 39
6.3 x 6.2
8.1 x 8
www.we-online.com
WE-TPC(M)
WE-PD2(M)
WE-PD(S)
1 to 10
2.2 to 22
1 to 27
4.8 x 4.8
5.2 x 5.8
7.3 x 7.3
Toko
Würth Elektronik
3686afa
13
LT3686A
Applications Information
necessary. This can be provided with a low performance
electrolytic capacitor. Step-down regulators draw current
from the input supply in pulses with very fast rise and fall
times. The input capacitor is required to reduce the resulting voltage ripple at the LT3686A and to force this very
high frequency switching current into a tight local loop,
minimizing EMI. A 2.2μF capacitor is capable of this task,
but only if it is placed close to the LT3686A and the catch
diode (see the PCB Layout section). A second precaution
regarding the ceramic input capacitor concerns the maximum input voltage rating of the LT3686A. A ceramic input
capacitor combined with trace or cable inductance forms
a high quality (underdamped) tank circuit. If the LT3686A
circuit is plugged into a live supply, the input voltage can
ring to twice its nominal value, possibly exceeding the
LT3686A’s voltage rating. This situation is easily avoided;
see the Hot Plugging Safely section.
where COUT is in μF and frequency is in MHz. Use an X5R or
X7R type and keep in mind that a ceramic capacitor biased
with VOUT will have less than its nominal capacitance. This
choice will provide low output ripple and good transient
response. Transient performance can be improved with
a high value capacitor, but a phase lead capacitor across
the feedback resistor, R1, may be required to get the full
benefit (see the Compensation section).
For small size, the output capacitor can be chosen according to:
VOUT • f
High performance electrolytic capacitors can be used for
the output capacitor. Low ESR is important, so choose
one that is intended for use in switching regulators. The
ESR should be specified by the supplier and should be
0.1Ω or less. Such a capacitor will be larger than a ceramic
capacitor and will have a larger capacitance, because the
capacitor must be large to achieve low ESR. Table 3 lists
several capacitor vendors.
The output capacitor has two essential functions. Along
with the inductor, it filters the square wave generated by
the LT3686A to produce the DC output. In this role it determines the output ripple so low impedance at the switching
frequency is important. The second function is to store
energy in order to satisfy transient loads and stabilize the
LT3686A’s control loop. Ceramic capacitors have very low
equivalent series resistance (ESR) and provide the best
ripple performance. A good value is:
83
where COUT is in μF and frequency is in MHz. However,
using an output capacitor this small results in an increased
loop crossover frequency and increased sensitivity to
noise, requiring careful PCB design.
Output Capacitor
C OUT =
C OUT =
145
VOUT • f
Table 3.
VENDOR
PHONE
URL
PART SERIES
COMMENTS
Panasonic
(714) 373-7366
www.panasonic.com
Ceramic
Polymer
Tantalum
EEF Series
Kemet
(864) 963-6300
www.kemet.com
Ceramic
Tantalum
Sanyo
(408) 794-9714
www.sanyovideo.com
Ceramic
Polymer
Tantalum
Murata
(404) 436-1300
AVX
Taiyo Yuden
(864) 963-6300
www.murata.com
Ceramic
www.avxcorp.com
Ceramic
Tantalum
www.taiyo-yuden.com
Ceramic
T494, T495
POSCAP
TPS Series
3686afa
14
LT3686A
Applications Information
Figure 7 shows the transient response of the LT3686A with
several output capacitor choices. The output is 3.3V. The
load current is stepped from 0.25A to 1A and back to 0.25A,
and the oscilloscope traces show the output voltage. The
upper photo shows the recommended value. The second
photo shows the improved response (less voltage drop)
resulting from a larger output capacitor and a phase lead
capacitor. The last photo shows the response to a high
performance electrolytic capacitor. Transient performance
is improved due to the large output capacitance.
BOOST and BD Pin Considerations
Capacitor C3 and the internal boost diode are used to
generate a boost voltage that is higher than the input
voltage. In most cases a 0.22μF capacitor will work well.
Figure 8 shows two ways to arrange the boost circuit. The
BOOST pin must be at least 2.2V above the SW pin for
best efficiency. For outputs of 3V and above, the standard
circuit (Figure 8a) is best. For outputs less than 3V and
above 2.5V, place a discrete Schottky diode (such as the
SYNC/MODE < 0.4V
SYNC/MODE > 0.8V
VOUT
32.4k
22µF
FB
10k
IL
500mA/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
3686A F07a
20µs/DIV
3686A F07b
20µs/DIV
3686A F07c
20µs/DIV
3686A F07f
20µs/DIV
3686A F07i
VOUT
32.4k
47pF
22µF
×2
FB
10k
IL
500mA/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
3686A F07d
20µs/DIV
3686A F07e
VOUT
32.4k
FB
10k
+
100µF
SANYO
4TPB100M
IL
500mA/DIV
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
VOUT
50mV/DIV
AC
3686A F07g
20µs/DIV
3686A F07h
Figure 7. Transient Load Response of the LT3686A with Different Output Capacitors as the Load Current Is Stepped from 0.25A to
1A. VIN = 12V, VOUT = 3.3V, L = 6.8µH , Frequency = 2MHz
3686afa
15
LT3686A
Applications Information
BAT54) in parallel with the internal diode to reduce VD. The
following equations can be used to calculate and minimize
boost capacitance in μF:
CBOOST =
the optimal boost capacitor for the chosen BD voltage.
The absence of BD voltage during startup will increase
minimum voltage to start and reduce efficiency. You must
also be sure that the maximum voltage rating of BOOST
pin is not exceeded. The BD pin can also be tied to VIN
(Figure 8c) but VIN will be limited to 25V and the active
load circuit is automatically disabled.
0.065
(VBD + VCATCH – VD − 2.2) • f
VD is the forward drop of the boost diode, VCATCH is the
forward drop of the catch diode (D1), and frequency is in
MHz. A typical value of 0.22µF can be used for CBOOST.
The minimum operating voltage of an LT3686A application is limited by the undervoltage lockout (3.6V) and by
the maximum duty cycle as outlined above. For proper
start-up, the minimum input voltage is also limited by
the boost circuit. If the input voltage is ramped slowly, or
For lower output voltages the BD pin can be tied to an
external voltage source with adequate local bypassing
(Figure 8b). The above equations still apply for calculating
BD
BOOST
LT3686A
VIN
VIN
SW
DA
GND
8a
VOUT
VBOOST – VSW ≅ VOUT
MAX VBOOST ≅ VIN + VOUT
VDD
BD
BOOST
LT3686A
VIN
VIN
SW
DA
GND
8b
VOUT
VBOOST – VSW ≅ VDD
MAX VBOOST ≅ VIN + VDD
BD
BOOST
LT3686A
VIN
VIN
SW
GND
8c
VOUT
DA
VBOOST – VSW ≅ VIN
MAX VBOOST ≅ 2VIN
3686A F08
Figure 8.
3686afa
16
LT3686A
Applications Information
the LT3686A is turned on with its EN/UVLO pin when the
output is already in regulation, then the boost capacitor
may not be fully charged. Because the boost capacitor is
charged with the energy stored in the inductor, the circuit
will rely on some minimum load current to get the boost
circuit running properly.
This minimum load will depend on the input and output
voltages, and on the arrangement of the boost circuit. The
minimum load generally goes to zero once the circuit has
started. Figure 9 shows plots of minimum load to start
and to run as a function of input voltage. In many cases
the discharged output capacitor will present a load to the
switcher which will allow it to start. At light loads, the
inductor current becomes discontinuous and the effective
duty cycle can be very high. This reduces the minimum
input voltage to approximately 400mV above VOUT. At
higher load currents, the inductor current is continuous
and the duty cycle is limited by the maximum duty cycle,
requiring a higher input voltage to maintain regulation.
As the LT3686A enters dropout, the boost capacitor voltage
will be limited by VOUT, which is fixed by the maximum duty
cycle. If the boost capacitor’s voltage during dropout falls
7
9
8
6
7
6
4
VIN (V)
VIN (V)
5
3
4
3
2
2
START
RUN
SUSTAIN
1
0
5
1
10
100
START
RUN
SUSTAIN
1
0
1000
1
10
ILOAD (mA)
100
3686A F09a
Figure 9a. Typical Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 3.3V,
f = 1MHz, L = 15µH, SYNC/MODE < 0.4V
Figure 9b. Typical Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 5V,
f = 1MHz, L = 22µH, SYNC/MODE < 0.4V
8
6
7
RUN
5
4
3
4
3
2
2
1
0
RUN
6
VIN (V)
VIN (V)
3686A F09b
7
5
1000
ILOAD (mA)
1
1
10
100
1000
ILOAD (mA)
0
1
10
100
1000
ILOAD (mA)
3686A F09c
Figure 9c. Typical Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 3.3V,
f = 1MHz, L = 15µH, SYNC/MODE > 0.8V
3686A F09d
Figure 9d. Typical Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 5V,
f = 1MHz, L = 22µH, SYNC/MODE > 0.8V
3686afa
17
LT3686A
Applications Information
below the minimum voltage to sustain boosted operation
(2.2V across the boost capacitor), the output voltage will
fall suddenly to:
VOUT = (VIN –2.2) • DCMAX
Figure 9 shows the minimum VIN necessary to sustain
boosted operation during dropout. Once VIN drops below
the sustain voltage, VIN will need to reach the start voltage
again to refresh the boost capacitor. The programmable
undervoltage lockout (UVLO) function can be used to avoid
operating unless VIN is greater than the start voltage.
Fixed Frequency at Light Load
The LT3686A contains unique active load circuitry to allow
for full frequency switching at very light loads. To enable
the active load, drive the SYNC/MODE pin with clock pulses
or a DC voltage greater than 0.8V.
Typical fixed frequency nonsynchronous buck regulators
skip pulses at light loads. With a fixed input voltage, as the
load current decreases in discontinuous mode, the regulator is required to switch for shorter periods of time. When
the required on time decreases below the typical minimum
on time, the regulator skips one or more pulses so the
effective average duty cycle is equal to the required duty
cycle. This likelihood of entering pulse-skipping is exacerbated by the tendency for minimum on time to increase at
very light loads. Pulse-skipping is undesirable because it
causes unpredictable, sub-harmonic output ripple that can
interfere with the operation of other sensitive components
such as AM receivers and audio equipment.
into a fixed on time, fixed frequency, open loop current
source. Instead of controlling switch current, the internal
error amplifier servos the active load on the output via
the BD pin to maintain output voltage regulation. The
impact on efficiency is mitigated by pulling the minimum
current necessary to keep switching at full frequency. The
necessary BD load to maintain output regulation depends
on VIN, inductor size, and load current. As the necessary
BD load increases beyond its 40mA limit, pulse-skipping
mode will resume.
The BD active load circuitry is enabled when MODE tied high
and disabled when MODE is tied low. Even when activated,
the active load will shutdown when BD voltage exceeds
either 6V or VIN in an effort to minimize power dissipation
and intelligently react to external configurations.
To address the startup concerns delineated in the BOOST
and BD Pin Considerations section, the active load will
assist startup by pulling maximum current (40mA) to
charge the boost capacitor voltage in the absence of an
adequate load. An internal power good circuit will disable
the BD active load when VFB reaches 0.7V. Figure 9 compares plots of minimum input voltage to start and run as
a function of load current. In many cases the discharged
output capacitor will present a load to the switcher which
will allow it to start. The plots show the worst-case situation where VIN is ramping very slowly.
The active load also activates to hasten the recharge of
boost cap when operating beyond maximum duty cycle.
When not in use, the active load pulls no current.
The BD active load is designed to combat pulse-skipping
by providing an operational regime between full frequency
discontinuous and pulse-skipping modes.
As the LT3686A approaches minimum on time in discontinuous mode, its power switch transitions smoothly
18
35
PULSE-SKIPPING
30
ACTIVE
LOAD
25
VIN (V)
The maximum VIN before pulse-skipping in discontinuous mode is directly dependent on load current; as the
load decreases, so does the pulse-skipping boundary. An
artificial load on the output helps push the pulse-skipping
boundary higher. The LT3686A achieves this goal by
commanding the minimum load necessary to keep itself
at full switching frequency, hence the circuitry is called
an active load.
40
20
DCM
15
CCM
10
5
0
0
20
40
60
80
IOUT (mA)
100
120
140
3686A F10
Figure 10. Regions of Operation (5VOUT, 2MHz)
3686afa
LT3686A
Applications Information
Soft-Start
The SS pin is used to soft-start the LT3686A, eliminating
input current surge during start-up. It can also be used to
track another voltage in the system (Figure 11).
An internal 2µA current source charges an external softstart capacitor to generate a voltage ramp. FB voltage is
regulated to the voltage at the SS pin until it exceeds 0.8V,
FB is then regulated to the reference 0.8V. Soft-start also
reduces the oscillator frequency to avoid hitting current
limit during start-up. Figure 12 shows the start-up waveforms with and without the soft-start circuit.
VOUT
2V/DIV
VSS
500mV/DIV
1ms/DIV
3686A F11
Figure 11. LT3686A Configured to Track Voltage on SS Pin
VSW
10V/DIV
SS
GND
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
2V/DIV
VIN = 10V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
CSS = 0
5µs/DIV
VSW
10V/DIV
SS
1.2nF
GND
IL
500mA/DIV
VOUT
2V/DIV
VIN = 10V
VOUT = 3.3V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
CSS = 1.2nF
50µs/DIV
3686A F12
Figure 12. To Soft Start the LT3686A, Add a Capacitor to the SS Pin
3686afa
19
LT3686A
Applications Information
Short and Reverse Protection
If the inductor is chosen so that it won’t saturate excessively,
the LT3686A will tolerate a shorted output. When operating in short-circuit condition, the LT3686A will reduce
its frequency until the valley current is 1.7A (Figure 13).
There is another situation to consider in systems where
the output will be held high when the input to the LT3686A
is absent. This may occur in battery charging applications
or in battery backup systems where a battery or some
other supply is diode OR-ed with the LT3686A’s output.
If the VIN pin is allowed to float and the EN/UVLO pin is
held high (either by a logic signal or because it is tied to
VIN), then the LT3686A’s internal circuitry will pull its
quiescent current through its SW pin. This is fine if your
system can tolerate a few mA in this state. If you ground
the EN/UVLO pin, the SW pin current will drop to essentially
zero. However, if the VIN pin is grounded while the output
is held high, then parasitic diodes inside the LT3686A can
VSW
20V/DIV
pull large currents from the output through the SW pin
and the VIN pin. Figure 14 shows a circuit that will run
only when the input voltage is present and that protects
against a shorted or reversed input.
Hot Plugging Safely
The small size, robustness and low impedance of ceramic
capacitors make them an attractive option for the input
bypass capacitor of LT3686A circuits. However, these
capacitors can cause problems if the LT3686A is plugged
into a live supply (see Linear Technology Application
Note 88 for a complete discussion). The low loss ceramic
capacitor combined with stray inductance in series with
the power source forms an underdamped tank circuit,
and the voltage at the VIN pin of the LT3686A can ring
to twice the nominal input voltage, possibly exceeding
the LT3686A’s rating and damaging the part. If the input
supply is poorly controlled or the user will be plugging
VIN
VIN
LT3686A
BD
BOOST
EN/UVLO
SW
VOUT
SYNC/MODE
IL
500mA/DIV
SS
2µs/DIV
3686A F13
VIN = 35V
L = 6.8µH
COUT = 22µF
RT = 17.4k
VOUT = 0V
Figure 13. The LT3686A Reduces its Frequency from
2MHz to 160kHz to Protect Against Shorted Output
DA
RT
GND
FB
3686A F14
Figure 14. Input Diode Prevents a Shorted Input from
Discharging a Backup Battery Tied to the Output; it Also
Protects the Circuit from a Reversed Input. The LT3686A
Runs Only When the Input is Present
3686afa
20
LT3686A
Applications Information
the LT3686A into an energized supply, the input network
should be designed to prevent this overshoot. Figure 15
shows the waveforms that result when an LT3686A
circuit is connected to a 24V supply through six feet of
24-gauge twisted pair. The first plot is the response with
a 2.2μF ceramic capacitor at the input. The input voltage
rings as high as 35V and the input current peaks at 20A.
One method of damping the tank circuit is to add another
capacitor with a series resistor to the circuit. In Figure 15b
an aluminum electrolytic capacitor has been added. This
capacitor’s high equivalent series resistance damps the
circuit and eliminates the voltage overshoot. The extra
CLOSING SWITCH
SIMULATES HOT PLUG
IIN
VIN
+
LOW
IMPEDANCE
ENERGIZED
24V SUPPLY
+
LT3686A
capacitor improves low frequency ripple filtering and
can slightly improve the efficiency of the circuit, though
it is likely to be the largest component in the circuit. An
alternative solution is shown in Figure 15c. A 1Ω resistor
is added in series with the input to eliminate the voltage
overshoot (it also reduces the peak input current). A 0.1μF
capacitor improves high frequency filtering. This solution is
smaller and less expensive than the electrolytic capacitor.
For high input voltages its impact on efficiency is minor,
reducing efficiency one percent for a 5V output at full load
operating from 24V.
VIN
20V/DIV
2.2µF
20µs/DIV
(15a)
LT3686A
+
RINGING VIN MAY EXCEED
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM
RATING OF THE LT3686A
IIN
5A/DIV
STRAY
INDUCTANCE
DUE TO 6 FEET
(2 METERS) OF
TWISTED PAIR
10µF
35V
AI.EI.
DANGER!
VIN
20V/DIV
2.2µF
IIN
5A/DIV
(15b)
1Ω
+
0.1µF
LT3686A
20µs/DIV
VIN
20V/DIV
2.2µF
IIN
5A/DIV
(15c)
20µs/DIV
3686A F15
Figure 15. A Well Chosen Input Network Prevents Input Voltage Overshoot and Ensures Reliable Operation
When the LT3686A Is Connected to a Live Supply
3686afa
21
LT3686A
Applications Information
Frequency Compensation
The LT3686A uses current mode control to regulate the
output. This simplifies loop compensation. In particular,
the LT3686A does not require the ESR of the output capacitor for stability allowing the use of ceramic capacitors
to achieve low output ripple and small circuit size. Figure
16 shows an equivalent circuit for the LT3686A control
loop. The error amp is a transconductance amplifier with
finite output impedance. The power section, consisting of
the modulator, power switch and inductor, is modeled as
a transconductance amplifier generating an output current proportional to the voltage at the VC node. Note that
the output capacitor integrates this current, and that the
capacitor on the VC node (CC) integrates the error amplifier output current, resulting in two poles in the loop. RC
provides a zero. With the recommended output capacitor,
1V
–
+
RC
160k
CC
100pF
GND
gm =
2A/V
OUT
R1
–
VC
CURRENT MODE
POWER STAGE
CPL
FB
gm =
200µA/V
ERROR
AMPLIFIER
1M
+
LT3686A
the loop crossover occurs above the RCCC zero. This simple
model works well as long as the value of the inductor is
not too high and the loop crossover frequency is much
lower than the switching frequency. With a larger ceramic
capacitor (very low ESR), crossover may be lower and a
phase lead capacitor (CPL) across the feedback divider may
improve the phase margin and transient response. Large
electrolytic capacitors may have an ESR large enough to
create an additional zero, and the phase lead may not be
necessary. If the output capacitor is different than the recommended capacitor, stability should be checked across all
operating conditions, including load current, input voltage
and temperature. The LT1375 data sheet contains a more
thorough discussion of loop compensation and describes
how to test the stability using a transient load.
ESR
800mV
+
C1
C1
R2
3686A F16
Figure 16. Model for Loop Response
3686afa
22
LT3686A
Applications Information
PCB Layout
High Temperature Considerations
For proper operation and minimum EMI, care must be taken
during printed circuit board layout. Figure 17 shows the
recommended component placement with trace, ground
plane and via locations. Note that large, switched currents
flow in the LT3686A’s VIN and SW pins, the catch diode
(D1) and the input capacitor (C2). The loop formed by
these components should be as small as possible and tied
to system ground in only one place. These components,
along with the inductor and output capacitor, should be
placed on the same side of the circuit board, and their
connections should be made on that layer. Place a local,
unbroken ground plane below these components, and tie
this ground plane to system ground at one location, ideally
at the ground terminal of the output capacitor C1. The SW
and BOOST nodes should be as small as possible. Finally,
keep the FB node small so that the ground pin and ground
traces will shield it from the SW and BOOST nodes. Include
vias near the exposed GND pad of the LT3686A to help
remove heat from the LT3686A to the ground plane.
The die temperature of the LT3686A must be lower than
the maximum rating of 125°C (150°C for LT3686AH). For
high ambient temperatures, care should be taken in the
layout of the circuit to ensure good heat sinking of the
LT3686A. The maximum load current should be derated
as the ambient temperature approaches the maximum
allowed junction temperature. The die temperature is
calculated by multiplying the LT3686A power dissipation by the thermal resistance from junction to ambient.
Power dissipation within the LT3686A can be estimated
by calculating the total power loss from an efficiency
measurement and subtracting the catch diode loss. The
resulting temperature rise at full load is nearly independent
of input voltage. Thermal resistance depends on the layout
of the circuit board, but 43°C/W is typical for the (3mm
× 3mm) DFN package.
C1
OUT
SW
D1
C2
BD
FB
VIN
DA
SS
RT
UVLO
BST
SYNC/
MODE
3686A F17
Figure 17. PCB Layout
3686afa
23
LT3686A
Applications Information
Outputs Greater Than 19V
Note that for outputs above 19V, the input voltage range
will be limited by the maximum rating of the BOOST pin.
The sum of input and output voltages cannot exceed the
BOOST pin’s 55V rating. The 25V circuit (Figure 18) shows
how to overcome this limitation using an additional Zener
diode.
Other Linear Technology Publications
Application Notes 19, 35 and 44 contain more detailed
descriptions and design information for Buck regulators
and other switching regulators. The LT1376 data sheet
has a more extensive discussion of output ripple, loop
compensation and stability testing. Design Note 318
shows how to generate a bipolar output supply using a
buck regulator.
VIN
30V TO 36V
2.2µ
0.22µF
15V
VIN
LT3686A
BD
BOOST
EN/UVLO
0.22µF
SYNC/MODE
SW
100µH
SS
100n
RT
DA
GND
61.9k
VOUT
500mA
301k
FB
10µF
10k
3686A F18
Figure 18. 25V Step-Down Converter
3686afa
24
LT3686A
Typical Applications
0.8V Step-Down Converter
VIN
3.6V TO 25V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
0.22µF
2.2µH
VOUT
0.8V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
FB
61.9k
100µF
3686A TA02a
3.3V Step-Down Converter
VIN
5V TO 37V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
0.22µF
6.8µH
VOUT
3.3V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
31.6k
FB
61.9k
22µF
10k
3686A TA02b
1.8V Step-Down Converter
VIN
3.6V TO 25V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
3.3µH
VOUT
1.8V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
61.9k
0.22µF
12.4k
FB
47µF
10k
3686A TA02c
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25
LT3686A
Typical Applications
3.3V Step-Down Converter with Programmed UVLO
VIN
7.5V TO 37V
BD
VIN
500k
2.2µF
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
0.22µF
6.8µH
VOUT
3.3V
1.2A
SW
100k
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
BOOST
RT
DA
31.6k
FB
22µF
10k
GND
61.9k
3686A TA02d
2.5V Step-Down Converter
VIN
3.6V TO 25V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
0.22µF
4.7µH
VOUT
2.5V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
21.5k
FB
61.9k
33µF
10k
3686A TA02e
5V Step-Down Converter
VIN
7V TO 37V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
10µH
VOUT
5V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
61.9k
0.22µF
52.3k
FB
15µF
10k
3686A TA02f
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LT3686A
Package Description
MSE Package
12-Lead Plastic MSOP, Exposed Die Pad
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1666 Rev D)
BOTTOM VIEW OF
EXPOSED PAD OPTION
2.845 ± 0.102
(.112 ± .004)
5.23
(.206)
MIN
2.845 ± 0.102
(.112 ± .004)
0.889 ± 0.127
(.035 ± .005)
6
1
1.651 ± 0.102 3.20 – 3.45
(.065 ± .004) (.126 – .136)
0.12 REF
12
0.65
0.42 ± 0.038
(.0256)
(.0165 ± .0015)
BSC
TYP
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
0.254
(.010)
0.35
REF
4.039 ± 0.102
(.159 ± .004)
(NOTE 3)
DETAIL “B”
CORNER TAIL IS PART OF
DETAIL “B” THE LEADFRAME FEATURE.
FOR REFERENCE ONLY
7
NO MEASUREMENT PURPOSE
0.406 ± 0.076
(.016 ± .003)
REF
12 11 10 9 8 7
DETAIL “A”
0° – 6° TYP
3.00 ± 0.102
(.118 ± .004)
(NOTE 4)
4.90 ± 0.152
(.193 ± .006)
GAUGE PLANE
0.53 ± 0.152
(.021 ± .006)
DETAIL “A”
1.10
(.043)
MAX
0.18
(.007)
SEATING
PLANE
0.22 – 0.38
(.009 – .015)
TYP
1 2 3 4 5 6
0.650
(.0256)
BSC
NOTE:
1. DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETER/(INCH)
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. DIMENSION DOES NOT INCLUDE MOLD FLASH, PROTRUSIONS OR GATE BURRS.
MOLD FLASH, PROTRUSIONS OR GATE BURRS SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.152mm (.006") PER SIDE
4. DIMENSION DOES NOT INCLUDE INTERLEAD FLASH OR PROTRUSIONS.
INTERLEAD FLASH OR PROTRUSIONS SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.152mm (.006") PER SIDE
5. LEAD COPLANARITY (BOTTOM OF LEADS AFTER FORMING) SHALL BE 0.102mm (.004") MAX
0.86
(.034)
REF
0.1016 ± 0.0508
(.004 ± .002)
MSOP (MSE12) 0910 REV D
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LT3686A
Package Description
DD Package
DD Package
10-Lead
Plastic
DFN× (3mm
10-Lead Plastic DFN (3mm
3mm) × 3mm)
(Reference
DWG # 05-08-1699
(Reference
LTC DWGLTC
# 05-08-1699
Rev C) Rev C)
0.70 ±0.05
3.55 ±0.05
1.65 ±0.05
2.15 ±0.05 (2 SIDES)
PACKAGE
OUTLINE
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50
BSC
2.38 ±0.05
(2 SIDES)
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITCH AND DIMENSIONS
3.00 ±0.10
(4 SIDES)
R = 0.125
TYP
6
0.40 ± 0.10
10
1.65 ± 0.10
(2 SIDES)
PIN 1 NOTCH
R = 0.20 OR
0.35 × 45°
CHAMFER
PIN 1
TOP MARK
(SEE NOTE 6)
0.200 REF
0.75 ±0.05
0.00 – 0.05
5
1
(DD) DFN REV C 0310
0.25 ± 0.05
0.50 BSC
2.38 ±0.10
(2 SIDES)
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD
NOTE:
1. DRAWING TO BE MADE A JEDEC PACKAGE OUTLINE M0-229 VARIATION OF (WEED-2).
CHECK THE LTC WEBSITE DATA SHEET FOR CURRENT STATUS OF VARIATION ASSIGNMENT
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS
4. DIMENSIONS OF EXPOSED PAD ON BOTTOM OF PACKAGE DO NOT INCLUDE
MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH, IF PRESENT, SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.15mm ON ANY SIDE
5. EXPOSED PAD SHALL BE SOLDER PLATED
6. SHADED AREA IS ONLY A REFERENCE FOR PIN 1 LOCATION ON THE
TOP AND BOTTOM OF PACKAGE
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LT3686A
Revision History
REV
DATE
DESCRIPTION
PAGE NUMBER
A
5/11
Revised MSOP in Features, Pin Configuration, Order Information and Package Description sections
1, 2, 27
Updated Electrical Characteristics section
3
Updated value for EN/UVLO pin in Pin Functions section
7
Updated values in Operation section
Revised equation in Programmable Undervoltage Lockout section, Table 1 and minor text edit to Minimum On
Time in Applications Information section
9
10, 12, 13
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Information furnished by Linear Technology Corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representation that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights.
29
LT3686A
Typical Application
5V Step-Down Converter
VIN
7V TO 37V
BD
VIN
2.2µF
BOOST
EN/UVLO
LT3686A
SYNC/MODE
SS
1nF
0.22µF
10µH
VOUT
5V
1.2A
SW
DA
RT
GND
52.3k
FB
61.9k
15µF
10k
3686A TA02f
related Parts
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
COMMENTS
LT3686
37V, 55V with Transient Protection 1.2A, 2.5MHz, High
Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter
VIN: 3.6V to 37V, Transient to 55V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.8V, IQ = 1.1mA, ISD