Analog Devices Inc. LTC2960CTS8-3

Overview

LTC2960CTS8-3 from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a nano-power, high-voltage two-input voltage supervisor IC designed for battery and regulator monitoring in space-constrained systems. It features 850nA quiescent current, 2.5V–36V VCC operating range, ±1.5% threshold accuracy over –40°C to 125°C, fixed 200ms reset timeout, and active pull-up RST/OUT outputs referenced to DVCC. It is used in Li-ion multicell battery protection circuits to trigger controlled shutdown before deep discharge.

For engineers reviewing the LTC2960CTS8-3 datasheet, LTC2960CTS8-3 pinout, LTC2960CTS8-3 application, or LTC2960CTS8-3 equivalent, key selection considerations include its TSOT-23-8 package, IN+/ADJ dual-threshold configuration, DVCC-referenced logic outputs, 200ms fixed timeout, and compatibility with 1.6V–5.5V interface voltages - critical for low-power microcontroller reset supervision and battery UVLO signaling.

Technical Context

The LTC2960CTS8-3 integrates two independent comparators: one monitors the ADJ input for reset generation (with 400mV internal reference and 2.5% hysteresis), and the second monitors IN+ for auxiliary voltage detection (with 5% hysteresis). Its supervisory logic asserts RST low when ADJ falls below threshold and holds it low for 200ms after ADJ rises above threshold + hysteresis.

Unlike LTC2960-1/-2 variants, the LTC2960CTS8-3 replaces the RT pin with DVCC to enable active pull-up outputs, allowing RST and OUT to drive logic-high levels directly to DVCC (1.6V–5.5V) - eliminating external pull-up resistors and reducing static power. Grounding DVCC reconfigures outputs as open-drain.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead TSOT-23 (ThinSOT™), 2.9mm × 1.6mm footprint, 0.95mm height - optimized for ultra-compact battery management modules and wearable electronics.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar voltage supervisor applications.

Compared with MAX6326US29D3+T and TPS3808G33DBVR, the LTC2960CTS8-3 delivers unique value through its nano-current consumption, dual adjustable thresholds, and DVCC-configurable outputs - enabling single-chip solutions for complex battery supervision where power, flexibility, and integration matter.

Availability

LTC2960CTS8-3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered portable equipment, Li-ion multicell battery protection, and automotive accessory modules requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for LTC2960CTS8-3 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 acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains its precision analog and power management portfolio. Linear pioneered ultra-low-power supervisors for battery-critical applications.

The LTC2960 family was designed specifically for high-voltage, nano-power system supervision in portable and automotive electronics - emphasizing threshold accuracy, minimal ICC, and flexible output configurations across temperature extremes.

FAQ

What is the function of the DVCC pin on the LTC2960CTS8-3?

The DVCC pin on the LTC2960CTS8-3 sets the logic-high voltage level for the RST and OUT outputs. When connected to a 1.6V–5.5V supply, it enables active pull-up operation - eliminating external pull-up resistors and reducing static power. Grounding DVCC reconfigures both outputs as open-drain, supporting higher-voltage interfacing up to 36V. This dual-mode capability makes the LTC2960CTS8-3 adaptable to diverse host logic families without redesign.

How does the LTC2960CTS8-3 differ from the LTC2960-1 variant?

The LTC2960CTS8-3 differs from LTC2960-1 primarily in output architecture and pin assignment: LTC2960CTS8-3 replaces the RT (reset timeout select) pin with DVCC and fixes the timeout at 200ms, while LTC2960-1 offers selectable 15ms/200ms timeout via RT and uses 36V open-drain outputs. The LTC2960CTS8-3 also specifies TSOT-23 packaging and 0°C to 70°C temperature grade, whereas LTC2960-1 is commonly offered in DFN with wider temp ranges.

Can the LTC2960CTS8-3 monitor two different supply rails simultaneously?

Yes - the LTC2960CTS8-3 can monitor two distinct voltage rails using its dual-comparator architecture: ADJ serves as the primary reset input (e.g., for main system rail), while IN+ functions as an independent threshold detector (e.g., for backup battery or sensor supply). Each input is configured via its own resistor divider, enabling independent falling thresholds - such as 6.41V for UVLO and 3.0V for low-battery warning - with no additional ICs required.

What is the minimum recommended resistor divider current for accurate threshold setting on the LTC2960CTS8-3?

The LTC2960CTS8-3 specifies maximum input leakage current of ±1nA at ≤85°C. To limit threshold error to <1%, the resistor divider current should be ≥100× the sum of leakage currents - i.e., ≥0.2µA. For a typical 6V threshold design, a total divider resistance of ~8MΩ yields ~750nA current, well above this minimum and ensuring robust noise immunity and accuracy. Standard 1% resistors (e.g., 499kΩ, 34kΩ, 7.5MΩ) are validated in Linear's application notes for this purpose.

Is the LTC2960CTS8-3 suitable for automotive under-hood applications?

The LTC2960CTS8-3 is rated for 0°C to 70°C operation and is intended for commercial-grade applications such as portable electronics and consumer accessories. For under-hood automotive use requiring –40°C to 125°C operation, the pin-compatible LTC2960HTS8-3 (same TSOT-23 package, extended temperature grade) is specified. While the LTC2960CTS8-3 shares identical electrical performance, its temperature qualification does not meet AEC-Q100 requirements for under-hood deployment.