Analog Devices Inc. LTC1878EMS8#PBF
- Part No.:
- LTC1878EMS8#PBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
LTC1878EMS8#PBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 600MA 8MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,012
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Product details
Overview
LTC1878EMS8#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a high-efficiency monolithic synchronous buck regulator with current-mode control, operating from 2.65V to 6V input and delivering up to 600mA output at 3.3V VIN. It features 550kHz fixed switching frequency, 10µA quiescent current in operation, ±2% output voltage accuracy, and 100% duty-cycle low-dropout capability for battery-powered systems.
For engineers reviewing the LTC1878EMS8#PBF datasheet, LTC1878EMS8#PBF pinout, LTC1878EMS8#PBF application, or LTC1878EMS8#PBF equivalent, key selection considerations include its Burst Mode™ vs pulse-skipping mode behavior, internal P/N-channel MOSFET RDS(ON) (0.7Ω / 0.8Ω typ), SYNC/MODE pin logic for external clock synchronization (400–700kHz), and thermal derating requirements in dropout operation.
Technical Context
The LTC1878EMS8#PBF implements a constant-frequency, current-mode step-down architecture with integrated P-channel main and N-channel synchronous switches. Its error amplifier drives the ITH pin to regulate peak inductor current, while the 0.8V reference enables precise output voltage programming via external resistive divider.
It incorporates a digital phase/frequency detector-based PLL for external synchronization, with PLL LPF pin voltage linearly tracking oscillator frequency from 400kHz to 700kHz. Burst Mode™ operation disables under synchronization or when SYNC/MODE is pulled low, ensuring clean audio performance by eliminating low-frequency ripple.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.65V to 6V - supports single Li-Ion battery operation across full discharge curve. |
| Output Current | 600mA at VIN = 3.3V - sufficient for baseband processors, RF front-ends, and portable instrumentation. |
| Switching Frequency | 550kHz (internal), synchronizable 400–700kHz - enables compact 10µH inductors and ceramic output capacitors. |
| Quiescent Current | 10µA in Burst Mode™ - extends runtime in always-on sensor nodes and standby subsystems. |
| Feedback Reference | 0.8V ±2% - allows stable 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, or 3.3V outputs with standard resistor ratios. |
| RDS(ON) (P-MOSFET) | 0.7Ω typical at ISW = 100mA - limits conduction loss during high-duty-cycle dropout operation. |
| RDS(ON) (N-MOSFET) | 0.8Ω typical at ISW = –100mA - ensures efficient synchronous rectification and eliminates Schottky diode. |
| Shutdown Current | <1µA - meets ultra-low-power system-level sleep requirements. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-Lead MSOP (MS8), 3mm × 3mm, 0.65mm pitch, exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Thermal resistance θJA = 150°C/W.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RUN (Pin 1) | Enable/Shutdown Control | Pull above 1.2V to enable; below 0.4V to shut down with <1µA supply current. |
| ITH (Pin 2) | Error Amplifier Output | Controls peak inductor current threshold; nominal range 0.5V–1.9V; used for loop compensation. |
| VFB (Pin 3) | Feedback Input | Compares divided output voltage against 0.8V reference; sets regulated output voltage. |
| GND (Pin 4) | Analog & Power Ground | Common return for feedback, control, and power paths; requires low-impedance PCB connection. |
| SW (Pin 5) | Switch Node | Connects to inductor; carries high dv/dt switching waveform; must be routed with minimal parasitic inductance. |
| VIN (Pin 6) | Main Power Input | Supplies internal circuitry and power switches; requires local 22µF ceramic decoupling to GND. |
| SYNC/MODE (Pin 7) | Sync Input / Mode Select | Tie to VIN for Burst Mode™; ground for pulse-skipping; apply 400–700kHz clock for synchronization. |
| PLL LPF (Pin 8) | Phase Detector Filter Output | Drives external RC network to set VCO frequency during synchronization; open if unused. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated Synchronous Switches | Eliminates external Schottky diode, improves efficiency >95%, reduces BOM count and board area. |
| Burst Mode™ Operation | Maintains high light-load efficiency (e.g., 85% at 1mA) without audible noise or low-frequency ripple. |
| 100% Duty-Cycle Capability | Enables dropout operation down to VOUT + IOUT×RDS(ON), extending usable battery life in portable equipment. |
| Current-Mode Control | Provides inherent cycle-by-cycle current limiting, fast transient response, and stable operation with ceramic output caps. |
| Overcurrent & Overtemperature Protection | Thermal shutdown disables both switches at ~150°C; current foldback reduces oscillator frequency during short-circuit events. |
| External Frequency Synchronization | Prevents beat frequencies in multi-rail systems and reduces EMI through deterministic switching timing. |
Applications
| Cellular Telephones | Wireless Modems |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering baseband processor core and I/O rails from single-cell Li-Ion battery (2.8V–4.2V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary step-down regulator providing 1.8V/3.3V with dynamic load response and low-noise Burst Mode™ during idle. Use Value: Extends talk time via 10µA quiescent current and maintains regulation during deep discharge via 100% duty cycle. | Use Scenario: Supplying RF transceiver and digital signal processor in LTE/Wi-Fi modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency DC/DC converter synchronized to system clock to minimize spectral interference. Use Value: Achieves >90% efficiency at 300mA load while suppressing switching noise near sensitive RF receivers. |
| Portable Instruments | Battery-Powered Equipment |
Use Scenario: Powering precision ADCs, op-amps, and microcontrollers in handheld test meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-ripple power source with ±2% output accuracy and tight line/load regulation. Use Value: Ensures measurement integrity by minimizing supply-induced offset drift and noise coupling. | Use Scenario: Regulating main system rail in medical sensors, asset trackers, and IoT edge nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Always-on buck converter supporting long-term battery operation with programmable shutdown and remote sensing. Use Value: Enables >1-year battery life using Burst Mode™ and supports remote voltage sensing for improved load regulation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS62231DRVR | 3MHz fixed frequency, 300mA output, 2.05V–6.5V input, 17µA quiescent current in PWM mode | Higher switching frequency enables smaller passives but lower output current and higher light-load IQ | Select for space-constrained designs needing <1mm height inductors; not suitable for >400mA loads or sub-10µA standby. |
| MAX17503GCU+T | 4.5V–60V input, 600mA output, adjustable frequency 200kHz–2.2MHz, 100µA quiescent current | Wide-input industrial-grade part with integrated MOSFETs but significantly higher IQ and no Burst Mode™ | Select for high-input-voltage industrial applications; avoid where battery life or audio-sensitive operation is critical. |
Compared with TPS62231DRVR and MAX17503GCU+T, the LTC1878EMS8#PBF uniquely balances ultra-low quiescent current (10µA), true 100% duty-cycle dropout, and Burst Mode™ noise suppression-making it optimal for single-cell Li-Ion portable systems requiring both longevity and clean power.
Availability
LTC1878EMS8#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cellular telephones, wireless modems, and portable instrumentation requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for LTC1878EMS8#PBF 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. (acquired Linear Technology in 2017) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors.
The LTC1878EMS8#PBF belongs to Linear's legacy high-efficiency DC/DC converter product line, designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics demanding low IQ, small solution size, and robust protection features.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current of the LTC1878EMS8#PBF?
The LTC1878EMS8#PBF delivers up to 600mA continuous output current when VIN = 3.3V and ambient temperature is ≤85°C. At lower input voltages (e.g., 2.65V), maximum output current decreases due to increased RDS(ON) and thermal limits; Figure 1 in the datasheet shows this reduction across input voltage and output voltage combinations. Derating is required above 70°C ambient.
Does the LTC1878EMS8#PBF require an external Schottky diode?
No, the LTC1878EMS8#PBF does not require an external Schottky diode. It integrates both a P-channel main switch and an N-channel synchronous rectifier, enabling full synchronous rectification and eliminating conduction losses and thermal overhead associated with discrete diodes.
How does the SYNC/MODE pin configure operation modes on the LTC1878EMS8#PBF?
The SYNC/MODE pin configures three distinct modes: tie to VIN for Burst Mode™ operation (optimal light-load efficiency); ground for pulse-skipping mode (lower output ripple, better for audio); or apply 400–700kHz external clock for synchronization. The LTC1878EMS8#PBF disables Burst Mode™ automatically during synchronization to prevent interference.
What is the purpose of the PLL LPF pin on the LTC1878EMS8#PBF?
On the LTC1878EMS8#PBF, the PLL LPF pin provides the filtered control voltage to the internal voltage-controlled oscillator during external synchronization. When synchronized, it accepts an external RC network (e.g., 10kΩ + 2200pF) to stabilize lock; when unused, it may be left open. Its voltage linearly tracks oscillator frequency from 400kHz to 700kHz.
Can the LTC1878EMS8#PBF operate in 100% duty cycle, and what are the implications?
Yes, the LTC1878EMS8#PBF supports 100% duty cycle to maintain regulation as input voltage approaches output voltage-critical for Li-Ion battery discharge. In this mode, output voltage equals VIN minus IOUT×RDS(ON)(P-MOSFET), so thermal design must account for increased conduction loss and junction temperature rise, especially below 3V input.
LTC1878EMS8#PBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.65V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 6V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 6V
- Current - Output:
- 600mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 550kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-MSOP
LTC1878EMS8#PBF FAQ
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The price and inventory of LTC1878EMS8#PBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC1878EMS8#PBF is usually 5 days.
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5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for LTC1878EMS8#PBF?
For technical support, including LTC1878EMS8#PBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC1878EMS8#PBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC1878EMS8#PBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC1878EMS8#PBF 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 LTC1878EMS8#PBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC1878EMS8#PBF?
All LTC1878EMS8#PBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC1878EMS8#PBF, 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 LTC1878EMS8#PBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC1878EMS8#PBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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