Summary of LTC3601 – 1.5A, 15V Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator
The LTC3601 is a high-efficiency, 1.5A synchronous buck regulator operating from 4V to 15V. It features programmable switching frequencies between 800kHz and 4MHz, external synchronization, and low duty cycle operation. The device supports adjustable output voltages down to 0.6V, burst mode for low no-load current, and includes protection against short circuits. Its compact QFN or MSOP packaging makes it ideal for space-constrained designs requiring fast transient response.
Parts used in the LTC3601 Project:
- LTC3601 Monolithic Synchronous Buck Regulator
- Surface Mount Inductors
- External Resistor (for frequency programming)
- External Clock Source (for synchronization)
- Power Good Status Output Circuitry
- Programmable Soft-Start Component
- Output Voltage Tracking Capability
- 16-Pin QFN (3mm × 3mm) Package
- MSOP Package Option
Features
- 4V to 15V Operating Input Voltage Range
- 1.5A Output Current
- Up to 96% Efficiency
- Very Low Duty Cycle Operation: 5% at 2.25MHz
- Adjustable Switching Frequency: 800kHz to 4MHz
- External Frequency Synchronization
- Current Mode Operation for Excellent Line and Load Transient Response
- User Selectable Burst Mode® (No Load IQ = 300μA) or Forced Continuous Operation
- 0.6V Reference Allows Low Output Voltages
- Short-Circuit Protected
- Output Voltage Tracking Capability
- Programmable Soft-Start
- Power Good Status Output
- Available in Small, Thermally Enhanced, 16-Pin QFN (3mm × 3mm) and MSOP Packages
Typical Application
Description\
The LTC3601 is a high efficiency, monolithic synchronous buck regulator using a phase-lockable controlled on-time, current mode architecture capable of supplying up to 1.5A of output current. The operating supply voltage range is from 4V to 15V, making it suitable for a wide range of power supply applications
The operating frequency is programmable from 800kHz to 4MHz with an external resistor enabling the use of small surface mount inductors. For switching noise sensitive applications, the LTC3601 can be externally synchronized over the same frequency range. An internal phase-locked loop aligns the on-time of the top power MOSFET to the internal or external clock. This unique constant frequency/ controlled on-time architecture is ideal for high step-down ratio applications that demand high switching frequencies and fast transient response.
For more detail: LTC3601 – 1.5A, 15V Monolithic Synchronous Step-Down Regulator
- What is the operating input voltage range?
The operating supply voltage range is from 4V to 15V. - Can the switching frequency be adjusted?
Yes, the operating frequency is programmable from 800kHz to 4MHz with an external resistor. - Does the device support external synchronization?
Yes, the LTC3601 can be externally synchronized over the same frequency range for noise-sensitive applications. - How does the LTC3601 handle no-load conditions?
It offers user-selectable Burst Mode which results in a no-load IQ of 300μA. - What is the maximum output current capability?
The regulator is capable of supplying up to 1.5A of output current. - What packages are available for this component?
It is available in small, thermally enhanced 16-Pin QFN (3mm × 3mm) and MSOP packages. - Does the chip include short-circuit protection?
Yes, the device is short-circuit protected. - What is the minimum reference voltage allowed?
A 0.6V reference allows for low output voltages.
