Analog Devices Inc. DC862A-C

Overview

DC862A-C from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a demonstration circuit board featuring the LTC3221EDC micropower regulated charge pump DC/DC converter, configured for programmable 3V output regulation, 1.8V–3.8V input range, and 60mA max output current. It targets space-constrained, battery-powered portable systems requiring low quiescent current and minimal output ripple.

For engineers reviewing the DC862A-C datasheet, DC862A-C pinout, DC862A-C application, or DC862A-C equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed-input-voltage compatibility (1.8V min), programmable 3V output with ±4% tolerance, 57mV_P–P output ripple at 3.8V input/60mA load, 600kHz switching frequency, and 82.8% efficiency at 1.8V/60mA.

Technical Context

The DC862A-C implements a switched-capacitor charge pump topology using the LTC3221EDC IC, which regulates output via hysteresis-based comparator control of a flying capacitor and constant-current charging path. It operates in Burst Mode to minimize no-load quiescent current-lower than typical battery self-discharge rates.

Regulation is achieved by monitoring V_OUT against upper/lower trip thresholds; when below the lower threshold, the flying capacitor charges V_OUT via controlled current; above the upper threshold, the capacitor disconnects and replenishes. Soft-start prevents inrush, while short-circuit current limit and thermal protection ensure robustness under fault conditions.

Key Specifications

Availability

DC862A-C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable systems, low-power sensor nodes, and space-constrained wearable electronics requiring stable component supply and validated reference design integration.

Supply support for DC862A-C includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. (including legacy Linear Technology products) designs high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for precision signal chain and power applications.

The DC862A-C belongs to the LTC Demonstration Circuit family, developed to provide fully tested, application-validated hardware platforms for evaluating Linear/Analog Devices' micropower DC/DC converters in real-world low-voltage, low-quiescent-current scenarios.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DC862A-C?

The DC862A-C is a demonstration circuit board that evaluates the LTC3221EDC micropower regulated charge pump DC/DC converter. It provides a fully assembled, tested platform to validate programmable 3V output performance, input voltage range (1.8V–3.8V), 60mA load capability, and low-ripple operation-enabling rapid prototyping of battery-powered systems before custom PCB design. The DC862A-C itself is not an IC but a reference design tool.

Does the DC862A-C support adjustable output voltage?

Yes-the DC862A-C is configured for programmable 3V output using the LTC3221EDC, which allows output voltage setting via external resistor divider per the datasheet. Unlike DC862A-A (fixed 3.3V) and DC862A-B (fixed 5V), the DC862A-C's output is precisely regulated at 3.0V ±4% across its full operating range, confirmed by Table 1 test data showing 2.88V–3.12V tolerance.

What input voltage limits must be observed when using the DC862A-C?

The DC862A-C must be operated within 1.8V to 3.8V input voltage range, as specified in Table 1. Exceeding 3.8V risks damage to the LTC3221EDC IC and violates the board's validated operating envelope. Input sources must also supply ≥200mA peak current to accommodate startup and transient loads, per the Quick Start Guide instructions.

How does the DC862A-C achieve low output ripple?

The DC862A-C achieves 57mV_P–P output ripple at full load by leveraging the LTC3221EDC's constant-current charge pump architecture and hysteresis-based regulation. This method maintains consistent ripple amplitude across input voltage and load variations, enabling use of minimal 1µF ceramic output capacitance-reducing solution size and cost without compromising stability. The DC862A-C layout and component selection are optimized to preserve this performance.

Is the DC862A-C compatible with other versions like DC862A-A or DC862A-B?

No-the DC862A-C is not electrically or mechanically interchangeable with DC862A-A or DC862A-B. Each version uses a different LTC3221 variant (LTC3221EDC vs. LTC3221EDC-3.3/LTC3221EDC-5), with distinct output voltage setpoints, input voltage ranges (e.g., DC862A-C max = 3.8V vs. DC862A-B max = 5.5V), and internal feedback configurations. Board-level pinouts and jumper settings differ; substitution requires redesign validation.