Analog Devices Inc. LTC3255EMSE#PBF
- Part No.:
- LTC3255EMSE#PBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Package:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC3255EMSE#PBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CHRG PUMP ADJ 50MA 10MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:176
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Product details
Overview
LTC3255EMSE#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a switched-capacitor step-down DC/DC converter optimized for 4mA–20mA current loop power conversion. It accepts 4V–48V input, delivers adjustable 2.4V–12.5V output, supports up to 50mA load, achieves 16µA no-load quiescent current in Burst Mode®, and integrates VIN shunt regulation for current-fed operation - enabling 7.4mA output from a 4mA loop source.
For engineers reviewing the LTC3255EMSE#PBF datasheet, LTC3255EMSE#PBF pinout, LTC3255EMSE#PBF application, or LTC3255EMSE#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its multimode charge pump (2:1/1:1 with automatic switching), reverse-polarity input tolerance (–52V to 60V), PGOOD open-drain output, thermal protection (150°C max junction), and compatibility with industrial 4–20mA sensor transmitters and SCADA housekeeping supplies.
Technical Context
The LTC3255EMSE#PBF implements a fractional switched-capacitor topology with dual-mode operation: 2:1 charge pumping when VIN ≥ 2×VOUT (enabling current multiplication), and 1:1 mode otherwise. Its internal shunt regulator - enabled by connecting SHUNT to BIAS - allows stable operation from high-impedance current sources while maintaining VIN compliance within 2×VOUT + 3.5V.
Regulation is achieved via a Burst Mode® control loop that compares FB voltage (target 1.200V ±2.4mV) against an internal reference; charge transfer occurs in discrete packets only when VFB falls below threshold, minimizing idle power. Protection includes overtemperature shutdown (175°C trip), short-circuit current limiting (120mA), and reverse-input fault tolerance without external components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 4V to 48V - supports wide industrial supply rails and current-loop compliance margins. |
| Output Voltage Range | 2.4V to 12.5V adjustable - set via external resistor divider on FB pin (1.200V reference). |
| Max Output Current | 50mA - achievable with shunt disabled; up to 7.4mA sustained from 4mA input when shunt enabled. |
| Quiescent Current | 16µA at no load - enables ultra-low-power operation in battery-backed or energy-harvested systems. |
| Charge Pump Modes | Auto-switching 2:1 and 1:1 - maintains regulation across full VIN/VOUT range without manual configuration. |
| Protection Features | Reverse-polarity input (–52V), output short-circuit, overtemperature (150°C max operating TJ), and current limit (120mA). |
| Power Good Output | Open-drain PGOOD - asserts high-impedance when VFB ≥ 94% of regulation voltage (±6% hysteresis). |
Pinout & Package
Package: 10-lead plastic MSOP (MSE), thermally enhanced with exposed GND pad (Pin 11). Requires soldering of exposed pad to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity (θJA = 40°C/W).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| C+ (Pin 1) | Flying capacitor positive node | Connects to one terminal of external flying capacitor; must not be driven externally. |
| VOUT (Pin 2) | Regulated output voltage | Delivers final stepped-down voltage; bypassed with ≥10µF low-ESR ceramic capacitor. |
| FB (Pin 3) | Feedback input | Senses output via resistor divider; regulated to 1.200V ±2.4mV for precise output programming. |
| SHUNT (Pin 4) | Shunt regulator enable/disable | Connect to BIAS to enable VIN shunt (for 4–20mA loops); connect to GND to disable. |
| PGOOD (Pin 5) | Power-good status indicator | Open-drain output signals valid regulation (≥94% VOUT); requires external pull-up. |
| EN (Pin 6) | Enable control input | Logic-high enables device; logic-low disables all circuitry except bias (shutdown IIN = 3µA). |
| BIAS (Pin 7) | Internal bias supply | Must connect ≥0.1µF ceramic capacitor to GND; provides local decoupling for internal regulators. |
| GND (Pins 8 & 11) | Ground reference and thermal path | Pins 8 and 11 are internally connected; exposed pad (Pin 11) must be soldered to PCB ground plane. |
| C– (Pin 9) | Flying capacitor negative node | Connects to other terminal of flying capacitor; must not be driven externally. |
| VIN (Pin 10) | Main input supply | Accepts 4V–48V; requires ≥1µF low-ESR ceramic bypass capacitor to GND. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Current multiplication | Converts 4mA input into 7.4mA continuous output in shunt-enabled mode - eliminates need for external boost stages in 4–20mA transmitters. |
| Inductor-free architecture | Uses flying capacitors instead of magnetic components - reduces board area, EMI, and cost versus buck converters. |
| Burst Mode® regulation | Maintains 16µA no-load IQ while delivering tight output regulation - ideal for always-on industrial sensors. |
| Fault-tolerant inputs | Withstands –52V reverse polarity and 60V transients on VIN without damage - simplifies front-end protection design. |
| Thermal robustness | Rated for 150°C max junction temperature with integrated overtemperature shutdown - suitable for high-ambient factory environments. |
Applications
| 4–20mA Loop-Powered Transmitter | Industrial Housekeeping Supply |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering analog sensor signal conditioning and ADC circuitry inside a field-mounted pressure or temperature transmitter powered solely by a 4–20mA loop. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary DC/DC converter providing isolated, regulated 3.3V or 5V rail from loop current; operates in shunt-enabled 2:1 mode. Use Value: Enables full functionality from minimal 4mA loop current without requiring auxiliary power - extends transmitter deployment flexibility and reduces wiring complexity. | Use Scenario: Generating auxiliary bias voltages for microcontrollers, op-amps, and interface ICs in PLC backplanes or motor drive control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact, efficient step-down regulator replacing linear regulators or inductor-based buck converters in space-constrained control boards. Use Value: Delivers up to 50mA at >85% efficiency across 4–48V input range - reduces heat generation and improves system reliability versus LDOs. |
| SCADA Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) | Factory Automation Sensor Node |
Use Scenario: Providing stable 12V or 5V supply for communication interfaces (RS-485, CAN) and data acquisition circuits in remote telemetry units deployed in harsh outdoor environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-protected power manager handling wide input transients and reverse polarity - critical for unattended infrastructure nodes. Use Value: Survives –52V to +60V input faults and maintains regulation during brownouts - ensures continuous operation without external TVS or diode protection. | Use Scenario: Powering MEMS accelerometers, humidity sensors, and wireless SoCs in battery-assisted or energy-harvested IIoT edge nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-quiescent-current DC/DC converter supporting intermittent wake-up cycles and long-term storage. Use Value: Draws only 16µA when idle - extends battery life or enables operation from microwatt-level harvested energy sources. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar switched-capacitor step-down converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTC3265EMSE#PBF | Includes integrated low-noise LDO post-regulator; higher IQ (60µA); fixed 3.3V/5V outputs only. | Better suited for noise-sensitive analog circuits requiring ultra-low ripple; lacks adjustable output and current multiplication. | Select LTC3265EMSE#PBF only if post-LDO filtering is required and output voltage is fixed. |
| MAX17521ATP+T | Inductor-based synchronous buck; 4.5V–60V input; 500mA output; higher peak efficiency but larger solution size. | Supports much higher loads and wider input range; requires inductor and more layout area. | Select MAX17521ATP+T when >50mA output current or tighter efficiency targets (>92%) are mandatory. |
Compared with LTC3265EMSE#PBF and MAX17521ATP+T, the LTC3255EMSE#PBF uniquely balances ultra-low quiescent current, current multiplication capability, and inductor-free simplicity - making it optimal for space- and power-constrained 4–20mA loop applications where 50mA output suffices.
Availability
LTC3255EMSE#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control, factory automation, sensor signal conditioning, and SCADA housekeeping power supplies requiring stable component supply, extended temperature support (–40°C to 125°C), and long-term lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for LTC3255EMSE#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. (ADI) acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains its precision analog and power management portfolio with rigorous industrial qualification standards.
The LTC3255EMSE#PBF belongs to ADI's high-reliability switched-capacitor DC/DC converter family, designed specifically for current-loop-powered instrumentation, ruggedized industrial sensors, and space-constrained housekeeping supplies where inductors are undesirable.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current capability of the LTC3255EMSE#PBF in shunt-enabled mode?
The LTC3255EMSE#PBF delivers up to 7.4mA continuous output current when the SHUNT pin is connected to BIAS and supplied from a 4mA current source at 3.3V output. This current multiplication is enabled by locking the charge pump in 2:1 mode and leveraging the integrated VIN shunt regulator - a core feature distinguishing the LTC3255EMSE#PBF from standard charge pumps.
Can the LTC3255EMSE#PBF operate with input voltages below 4V?
No. The LTC3255EMSE#PBF has a guaranteed minimum input voltage of 4V per its Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables. Below 4V, undervoltage lockout prevents operation - with thresholds of 2.4V (shunt disabled) and 5.0V (shunt enabled). Attempting to operate below 4V will result in no regulation or undefined behavior.
How does the LTC3255EMSE#PBF achieve 16µA quiescent current, and under what conditions is this specified?
The LTC3255EMSE#PBF achieves 16µA quiescent current in Burst Mode® operation at no load, with EN high, SHUNT connected to BIAS, and VIN = 12V. This value is measured when the device cycles between active charge bursts and deep sleep states - transferring only enough charge to maintain regulation. The specification applies across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to 125°C) for the LTC3255EMSE#PBF grade.
What is the purpose of the exposed pad (Pin 11) on the LTC3255EMSE#PBF MSOP package?
The exposed pad (Pin 11) on the LTC3255EMSE#PBF is electrically and thermally connected to GND. It must be soldered to a PCB ground plane to ensure proper thermal dissipation (θJA = 40°C/W) and electrical stability. Failure to solder this pad increases thermal resistance significantly and may cause premature thermal shutdown or regulation drift under load.
Does the LTC3255EMSE#PBF require external compensation components for stability?
No. The LTC3255EMSE#PBF uses a fixed-frequency, hysteretic Burst Mode® control architecture that does not require external compensation. Stability is ensured by proper selection of external capacitors - specifically a ≥0.4µF ceramic flying capacitor and ≥10µF low-ESR ceramic output capacitor - as defined in the Applications Information section of the datasheet.
LTC3255EMSE#PBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Charge Pump
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 48V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 2.4V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 12.5V
- Current - Output:
- 50mA
- Frequency - Switching:
- 500kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-MSOP-EP
LTC3255EMSE#PBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC3255EMSE#PBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC3255EMSE#PBF 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 LTC3255EMSE#PBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC3255EMSE#PBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC3255EMSE#PBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC3255EMSE#PBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC3255EMSE#PBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC3255EMSE#PBF?
LTC3255EMSE#PBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC3255EMSE#PBF 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 LTC3255EMSE#PBF?
For technical support, including LTC3255EMSE#PBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC3255EMSE#PBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC3255EMSE#PBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC3255EMSE#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 LTC3255EMSE#PBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC3255EMSE#PBF?
All LTC3255EMSE#PBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC3255EMSE#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 LTC3255EMSE#PBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC3255EMSE#PBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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