STMicroelectronics L6920DCTR
- Part No.:
- L6920DCTR
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
L6920DCTR.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BST ADJ/1.8V 800MA 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:38,038
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Product details
Overview
L6920DCTR from STMicroelectronics is a monolithic synchronous rectifier step-up DC/DC converter IC designed for low-voltage battery-powered systems. It starts up at 0.8V input, delivers adjustable output from 1.8V to 5.5V (or fixed 3.3V/5V), integrates 300mΩ N- and P-channel switches, and supports up to 1MHz switching - enabling compact power supplies in handheld instruments and digital cameras.
For engineers reviewing the L6920DCTR datasheet, L6920DCTR pinout, L6920DCTR application, or L6920DCTR equivalent, key selection criteria include startup voltage (0.8V), synchronous rectification (no external diode), low quiescent current (12µA typ.), and integrated low-battery detection with open-drain LBO output.
Technical Context
The L6920DCTR operates using maximum-on-time / minimum-off-time control with PFM mode at light loads and PWM-like behavior under heavy load. Its internal 1.23V reference enables precise output regulation via FB pin feedback, while the zero-crossing comparator and current-limit circuit (550mA min) ensure stable energy transfer during LX switching cycles.
Startup uses an internal charge pump to bias the N-channel switch gate, allowing operation below 1V input; shutdown disables all circuitry except the reverse-polarity protection path. Low-battery detection is implemented via an external resistor divider on LBI, with hysteresis to prevent oscillation near threshold.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Start-up Voltage | 0.8V - enables operation from single alkaline/NiMH cell at end-of-life. |
| Output Voltage Range | 1.8V–5.5V adjustable, or fixed 3.3V/5V - covers ASIC, µP, and peripheral rail requirements. |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 1MHz - permits use of small 10µH inductor and 47µF output capacitor. |
| Quiescent Current | 12µA typ. at 3.3V out - extends battery life in standby or low-power modes. |
| Current Limit | 550mA minimum - defines maximum deliverable load current before regulation loss. |
| Reference Voltage | 1.23V ±4% - sets accuracy baseline for FB-based output voltage programming. |
| Reverse Battery Current | ≤1µA at –4V - prevents damage and battery drain during incorrect insertion. |
Pinout & Package
Package: MSOP-8 (3.0mm × 4.9mm, 0.65mm pitch), RoHS-compliant ECOPACK® with lead-free interconnect.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| FB | Feedback voltage selector | Connect to GND (5V), OUT (3.3V), or resistor divider (1.8–5.5V) - configures regulation setpoint. |
| LBI | Low-battery detector input | Accepts scaled battery voltage; internal 1.23V threshold triggers LBO when crossed. |
| LBO | Low-battery open-drain output | Sinks current when LBI < 1.23V; requires external ~200kΩ pull-up for logic-high state. |
| REF | 1.23V reference output | Bypassed with 100nF to GND for noise filtering; no stability capacitor needed. |
| SHDN | Shutdown control | Active-low: <0.2V = shutdown (ISD <1µA), >0.6V = active operation. |
| GND | Power and signal ground | Common return for all internal circuits and external components. |
| LX | Inductor switch node | Connects to one end of boost inductor; carries high di/dt switching current. |
| OUT | Regulated power output | Delivers final regulated voltage; connects to output capacitor and load. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Synchronous rectification | Integrated 300mΩ N- and P-channel switches eliminate external Schottky diode, reducing BOM count and conduction loss. |
| Ultra-low start-up voltage | 0.8V input enables use with deeply discharged single-cell batteries, extending usable runtime. |
| Integrated low-battery detection | Dedicated LBI/LBO pins with programmable threshold allow system-level battery monitoring without external comparators. |
| Reverse polarity protection | Internal circuit blocks destructive current flow if battery is inserted backward, limiting reverse current to ≤1µA. |
| High-frequency operation | 1MHz max switching frequency allows miniature magnetics and ceramics, minimizing PCB footprint. |
Applications
| Handheld Instruments | Digital Cameras |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Portable multimeters and data loggers powered by 1–3 alkaline or NiMH cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary step-up regulator generating stable 3.3V rail for microcontroller and ADC. Use Value: 0.8V start-up ensures full functionality even as battery voltage drops below 1.0V per cell. | Use Scenario: Compact digital still cameras with flash LED and image sensor requiring clean 5V supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Boost converter delivering regulated 5V from single Li-ion cell (2.7–4.2V). Use Value: Synchronous rectification achieves >85% efficiency at 100mA load, minimizing thermal stress in sealed housing. |
| GPS Receivers | Cellular Phones (Feature) |
Use Scenario: Battery-powered GPS modules operating in cold environments where alkaline cell voltage sags. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Supplies 3.3V to RF front-end and baseband processor from two NiMH cells. Use Value: 12µA quiescent current preserves battery capacity during long idle periods between position fixes. | Use Scenario: Entry-level GSM handsets using 1–2 alkaline cells for audio codec, display backlight, and RF section. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-rail generator producing both 3.3V (logic) and 5V (backlight) outputs. Use Value: Adjustable FB configuration supports flexible voltage scaling across product variants without changing BOM. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-up converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS61200DRCT | Higher 0.3V start-up (vs. 0.8V); 1.2V reference; 600mA current limit | Lacks integrated reverse polarity protection and low-battery detection outputs | Preferred when higher efficiency at mid-load is critical and external protection can be added |
| MAX1706ESA+ | Fixed 3.3V only; 0.9V start-up; 1.25V reference; no LBO/LBI pins | Requires external comparator for battery monitoring; no reverse polarity blocking | Selected for cost-sensitive designs where fixed output and minimal feature set suffice |
Compared with TPS61200DRCT and MAX1706ESA+, the L6920DCTR uniquely combines ultra-low start-up voltage, integrated battery monitoring (LBI/LBO), reverse polarity protection, and dual fixed/adjustable output capability - making it optimal for space-constrained, multi-cell battery systems requiring robustness and long runtime.
Availability
L6920DCTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for handheld instruments, digital cameras, GPS receivers, and cellular phones requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for L6920DCTR 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, designing and manufacturing analog, MCU, power, and sensing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The L6920DCTR belongs to ST's low-voltage DC/DC converter product line, engineered specifically for high-efficiency, ultra-low-startup boost conversion in portable battery-powered equipment.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for L6920DCTR to begin regulation?
The L6920DCTR starts switching and regulates output at an input voltage as low as 0.8V under typical conditions (VOUT = 3.3V). This is verified per datasheet Figure 4 and Table 4, where VSTARTUP is specified at 0.8V min. Startup occurs before VOUT reaches 1.4V, after which normal regulation commences.
How is the output voltage configured for non-standard values like 2.8V?
Output voltage is set via the FB pin using an external resistor divider. With VREF = 1.23V, connect FB to a divider between OUT and GND such that VFB = 1.23V. For 2.8V output, use R4/R5 ratio satisfying 2.8V = 1.23V × (1 + R4/R5); e.g., R4 = 255kΩ, R5 = 200kΩ yields 2.79V.
Does L6920DCTR require an external Schottky diode?
No. The L6920DCTR integrates both N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs for synchronous rectification, eliminating the need for an external Schottky diode. This is confirmed in the General Features list ("Internal synchronous rectifier") and Detailed Description section, which states "no external diode required" due to the internal synchronous switch.
What happens to the output during shutdown mode?
During shutdown (SHDN < 0.2V), internal circuitry powers down and both switches turn off. However, the synchronous switch's body diode creates a parasitic path from VIN to VOUT, so VOUT may weakly follow VIN if loaded. Output regulation ceases, and LBO is forced to high-impedance - confirming no active drive to downstream circuitry.
L6920DCTR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable (Fixed)
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 0.6V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 1.8V (3.3V, 5V)
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 800mA (Switch)
- Frequency - Switching:
- -
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-MSOP
L6920DCTR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for L6920DCTR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for L6920DCTR 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 L6920DCTR reliable?
The price and inventory of L6920DCTR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for L6920DCTR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for L6920DCTR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for L6920DCTR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for L6920DCTR?
L6920DCTR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your L6920DCTR 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 L6920DCTR?
For technical support, including L6920DCTR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your L6920DCTR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that L6920DCTR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All L6920DCTR 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 L6920DCTR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of L6920DCTR?
All L6920DCTR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with L6920DCTR, 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 L6920DCTR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for L6920DCTR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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