STMicroelectronics L6910A
- Part No.:
- L6910A
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- DC DC Switching Controllers
- Package:
- 16-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
L6910A.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CTRLR BUCK 16TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
L6910A from STMicroelectronics is a voltage-mode PWM controller IC for synchronous buck DC-DC converters, designed to regulate output voltages down to 0.9 V ±1.5% from 5–12 V input buses. It integrates high-current gate drivers (1.3 A high-side source, 1.1 A low-side source), adjustable switching frequency (50 kHz–1 MHz), hiccup-mode overcurrent protection, and power-good signaling. Used in memory supply and add-on card power rails where fast transient response and precise low-voltage regulation are critical.
For engineers reviewing the L6910A datasheet, L6910A pinout, L6910A application, or L6910A equivalent, key selection considerations include its 0%–100% duty cycle capability, internal 0.9 V reference accuracy, bootstrap-based high-side drive architecture, and RDS(on)-based current sensing without external shunt resistors.
Technical Context
The L6910A implements voltage-mode PWM control with a 10 MHz gain-bandwidth error amplifier and 10 V/µs slew rate, enabling high-loop bandwidth for sub-microsecond load transient recovery. Its oscillator supports both fixed 200 kHz operation and external resistor-adjustable frequency (50 kHz–1 MHz) via the OSC pin, with built-in overvoltage crowbar action that forces LGATE high during fault conditions.
Protection logic includes adaptive hiccup-mode overcurrent response triggered by RDS(on) monitoring at the PHASE node, plus overvoltage shutdown with PGOOD assertion and OSC pin clamping above 3 V. The EAREF pin accepts external references (0.9–3.0 V) or connects directly to the internal 0.9 V ±1.5% reference, with shutdown activation below 650 mV.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 5 V to 12 V - powers controller logic and low-side driver directly; exceeds typical 3.3 V/5 V rail limits for high-bus applications. |
| Output Voltage Accuracy | 0.9 V ±1.5% - enables stable DDR memory termination and low-core-voltage FPGA I/O rails without external trimming. |
| Switching Frequency | 50 kHz to 1 MHz - adjustable via RT resistor; higher frequencies reduce inductor size but increase switching loss. |
| Gate Drive Current | 1.3 A high-side source / 1.1 A low-side source - drives multiple parallel N-MOSFETs with minimal dead-time-induced shoot-through risk. |
| Overcurrent Sensing | RDS(on)-based, no sense resistor - eliminates power loss and board space for current-sense components in high-current designs. |
| Duty Cycle Range | 0% to 100% - supports full input-to-output voltage conversion range, including 12 V → 0.9 V step-down without dropout. |
| Power-Good Threshold | ±10% window (88–112% of setpoint) - provides reliable system enable/disable signaling for downstream logic sequencing. |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP16 (exposed pad), thermally enhanced for high-power DC-DC controller operation; 0.65 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VREF | Internal reference output | Provides 0.9 V ±1.5% reference; requires ≥1 nF ceramic capacitor; forces hiccup mode if pulled below 0.63 V. |
| OSC | Oscillator frequency control | Fixed 200 kHz when open; frequency adjusted via RT-to-GND (↑freq) or RT-to-VCC (↓freq); stops oscillation if 50 µA forced in. |
| OCSET | Overcurrent threshold setting | Sinks 200 µA constant current; sets current limit via external resistor tied to upper MOS drain and RDS(on). |
| SS/INH | Soft-start timing & disable input | 10 µA internal charge current; device disabled when voltage < 0.4 V; also discharges SS cap during UVLO events. |
| COMP | Error amplifier output | Drives external compensation network; 0.5–4 V swing; interfaces with PWM comparator for duty-cycle generation. |
| FB | Feedback input | Inverting input of error amp; monitors output via resistor divider; triggers PGOOD and OVP protection. |
| GND | Analog ground reference | Reference for all internal analog blocks; must connect to clean PCB signal ground plane. |
| EAREF | Error amp non-inverting input | Accepts 0.9–3.0 V external reference or shorted to VREF; shuts down if < 650 mV (typ). |
| PGOOD | Open-drain status output | Pulled low when FB voltage outside ±10%; floats when valid; used for system power sequencing. |
| PHASE | High-side switch node monitor | Returns path for high-side driver; senses upper MOS VDS for RDS(on)-based current limiting and dead-time control. |
| HGATE | High-side gate driver output | Bootstrap-supplied; 1.3 A peak source/sink; drives gate of upper N-MOSFET in synchronous buck stage. |
| BOOT | Bootstrap supply input | Connected via capacitor to PHASE and diode to VCC; generates floating supply for HGATE driver. |
| PGND | Power ground | Low-side MOS source return; must tie closely to power ground plane to minimize noise coupling into control circuitry. |
| LGATE | Low-side gate driver output | Directly VCC-supplied; 1.1 A peak source, 1.3 A sink; drives lower N-MOSFET with adaptive dead-time control. |
| VCC | Main supply input | 5–12 V operating range; powers internal logic, low-side driver, and BOOT diode anode; not rated >15 V absolute max. |
| N.C. | No-connect terminal | Not internally bonded; may float or tie to GND for mechanical stability; no electrical function. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Adjustable 0.9 V reference | Enables direct regulation of DDR2/DDR3 termination voltages and low-VCCIO FPGA supplies without external DAC or trim. |
| Voltage-mode PWM control | Supports wide input/output ratios and stable loop compensation using standard Type II/III networks with predictable phase margin. |
| Hiccup-mode overcurrent protection | Prevents thermal runaway during sustained overload by cycling soft-start; allows automatic recovery without system reset. |
| Bootstrap high-side drive | Eliminates need for isolated gate drive supply; supports high-side N-MOSFETs in cost-sensitive, space-constrained buck designs. |
| RDS(on)-based current sensing | Removes sense resistor losses and layout sensitivity; maintains accuracy across temperature with proper MOSFET RDS(on) derating. |
Applications
| Memory Power Supply | Computer Add-On Card |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing regulated 1.2 V or 1.5 V supply to DDR SDRAM modules on server motherboards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary synchronous buck controller managing voltage regulation, transient response, and power sequencing. Use Value: Delivers ±1.5% output accuracy and sub-10 µs load-step recovery to maintain memory timing margins under dynamic access patterns. | Use Scenario: Generating 3.3 V or 1.8 V rails for PCIe expansion cards with variable power draw. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone step-down controller driving discrete N-MOSFETs in compact, thermally constrained card-edge layouts. Use Value: Enables high-efficiency conversion from 12 V auxiliary bus while supporting hiccup-mode fault containment during hot-plug events. |
| Low-Voltage Distributed DC-DC | Mag-Amp Replacement |
Use Scenario: Local point-of-load regulation in telecom line cards requiring 0.9–1.8 V outputs at up to 20 A. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core PWM controller interfacing with external power stage and feedback network for distributed power architecture. Use Value: Supports 0%–100% duty cycle and 1 MHz max switching to minimize inductor volume in dense backplane designs. | Use Scenario: Replacing magnetic amplifier post-regulators in isolated flyback-derived 3.3 V/5 V supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary-side synchronous rectification controller eliminating mag-amp core losses and improving light-load efficiency. Use Value: Achieves >90% efficiency at 20% load versus <75% for mag-amps, with faster transient response and no saturation risk. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS40210 | Current-mode control; 4.5–20 V input; integrated 1.5 A gate drivers; no internal reference; requires external VREF. | Better suited for wide-input industrial supplies; lacks integrated 0.9 V reference and hiccup-mode OCP. | Select when current-mode stability and higher input voltage tolerance outweigh need for internal reference simplicity. |
| ISL6263 | Voltage-mode control; 5–24 V input; 2 A gate drivers; 0.6 V reference; supports dual-phase interleaving. | Targets higher-current notebook CPU VRMs; adds phase control not needed in single-rail memory supplies. | Choose for multi-phase scalability and tighter 0.6 V reference, but expect higher BOM cost and complexity than L6910A's single-phase simplicity. |
Compared with TPS40210 and ISL6263, the L6910A offers optimal balance for single-phase, low-voltage memory rails: integrated 0.9 V ±1.5% reference eliminates external components, hiccup-mode OCP simplifies fault handling, and HTSSOP16 package delivers superior thermal performance per mm² versus SO-16 alternatives.
Availability
L6910A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory power supply, computer add-on card, and low-voltage distributed DC-DC applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.
Supply support for L6910A 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in power management, microcontrollers, and analog ICs for industrial, automotive, and computing markets.
The L6910A belongs to ST's high-performance DC-DC controller product line, engineered specifically for synchronous buck topologies in memory, graphics, and add-in card power systems demanding precision, speed, and robust fault protection.
FAQ
What is the minimum output voltage achievable with the L6910A?
The L6910A supports a minimum regulated output voltage of 0.9 V ±1.5% when using the internal reference (EAREF tied to VREF). With an external reference applied to EAREF, voltages as low as 0.9 V are supported, but accuracy depends on the external reference's tolerance and temperature drift. No design supports sub-0.9 V regulation without external amplification.
How does the L6910A implement overcurrent protection without a sense resistor?
The L6910A uses the RDS(on) of the high-side MOSFET as the current-sensing element. A constant 200 µA current is sunk from the OCSET pin through an external resistor connected between OCSET and the MOSFET's drain. The resulting voltage drop across the MOSFET's channel is compared against this reference to trigger hiccup-mode shutdown when current exceeds the calculated threshold.
Can the L6910A operate with a 3.3 V input supply?
No. The L6910A requires a minimum VCC supply of 4.0 V (typical turn-on threshold) and is specified for operation only from 5 V to 12 V. A 3.3 V rail cannot power the controller directly; a pre-regulator or charge-pump booster would be required to meet the 5 V minimum, which contradicts the device's intended use case on higher-bus systems.
What is the purpose of the N.C. pin on the HTSSOP16 package?
The N.C. (No Connect) pin on the L6910A HTSSOP16 package is not internally bonded and serves no electrical function. It may be left floating or connected to GND for mechanical reinforcement or thermal relief, but it must never be used as a signal or power connection. Its presence aligns with package mold compatibility across ST's controller family.
L6910A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Type:
- Transistor Driver
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Output Phases:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 5V ~ 12V
- Frequency - Switching:
- 200kHz
- Duty Cycle (Max):
- 100%
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Clock Sync:
- No
- Serial Interfaces:
- -
- Control Features:
- Current Limit, Frequency Control, Phase Control, Power Good, Soft Start
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-HTSSOP
L6910A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for L6910A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for L6910A on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for L6910A reliable?
The price and inventory of L6910A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for L6910A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for L6910A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for L6910A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for L6910A?
L6910A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your L6910A order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for L6910A?
For technical support, including L6910A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your L6910A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that L6910A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All L6910A products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that L6910A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of L6910A?
All L6910A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with L6910A, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The L6910A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for L6910A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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