Analog Devices Inc. LTC3401EMS#PBF
- Part No.:
- LTC3401EMS#PBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Package:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
LTC3401EMS#PBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BOOST ADJ 1A 10MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LTC3401EMS#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a micropower, synchronous step-up DC/DC converter with integrated 0.16Ω N-channel and 0.18Ω P-channel MOSFETs, operating from 0.5V to 5.5V input and delivering up to 1A switch current. It supports fixed-frequency operation up to 3MHz (via external Rt resistor) or Burst Mode® for ultra-low quiescent current (38μA), and features an open-drain PGOOD output, antiringing control, and OPTI-LOOP® compensation. It is widely used in single- or dual-cell battery-powered portable instrumentation requiring high efficiency at light loads.
For engineers reviewing the LTC3401EMS#PBF datasheet, LTC3401EMS#PBF pinout, LTC3401EMS#PBF application, or LTC3401EMS#PBF equivalent, key selection considerations include its 0.85V typical start-up voltage, 2.6V–5.5V adjustable output range, 10-pin MSOP thermal performance (θJA = 100°C/W on 4-layer board), and Burst Mode enable control via MODE/SYNC pin.
Technical Context
The LTC3401EMS#PBF employs peak current-mode control with adaptive slope compensation, eliminating stability concerns from right-half-plane zero effects across wide load and input ranges. Its internal error amplifier (gm = 85 μmhos) interfaces with VC pin for OPTI-LOOP® compensation, enabling robust transient response without complex external networks.
It integrates lossless current sensing, zero-current detection (shuts off synchronous rectifier below ~50mA), and antiringing control that damps SW-node ringing during discontinuous conduction mode-reducing EMI without external snubbers. The MODE/SYNC pin serves dual functions: Burst Mode enable (logic high), fixed-frequency disable (logic low), or external clock synchronization (pulse width 100ns–2μs).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 0.5V to 5.5V - supports operation down to single alkaline or NiMH cell; starts reliably at 0.85V typical |
| Output Voltage Range | 2.6V to 5.5V - set via FB resistor divider; feedback reference is 1.25V ±3% |
| Switch Current Limit | 1.0A (min), 1.6A (typ) - defines maximum deliverable output current before foldback |
| Quiescent Current | 38μA in Burst Mode - extends battery life in standby; <1μA shutdown current |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 3MHz - programmable via Rt; synchronizable to external clock for EMI management |
| Efficiency | Up to 97% - achieved using synchronous rectification; no external Schottky required for VOUT < 4.3V |
| Package Thermal Resistance | θJA = 100°C/W (4-layer board) - enables 1A operation without forced air in compact layouts |
Pinout & Package
The LTC3401EMS#PBF is housed in a thermally enhanced 10-lead plastic MSOP package (3.0mm × 3.0mm × 0.86mm), with exposed pad for improved thermal dissipation. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; pin numbering follows standard MSOP convention (counterclockwise from top-left corner).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Rt (Pin 1) | Oscillator timing input | Connects to ground via resistor to set switching frequency: fOSC ≈ 3×10¹⁰/Rt (Hz) |
| MODE/SYNC (Pin 2) | Burst Mode control / clock sync | High = Burst Mode; Low = fixed frequency; external clock pulse enables synchronization |
| VIN (Pin 3) | Main input supply | Accepts 0.5V–5.5V; powers internal circuitry until VOUT exceeds 2.3V, then self-biases from VOUT |
| SW (Pin 4) | Power switch node | Connects to inductor and optional Schottky diode; voltage swing up to VOUT + 0.3V; requires short trace for EMI control |
| GND (Pin 5) | Signal and power ground | Common reference for all analog and power circuits; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise |
| PGOOD (Pin 6) | Open-drain power-good flag | Pulls low when FB voltage drops >9% below 1.25V; requires external pull-up for logic-level interface |
| VOUT (Pin 7) | Regulated output / bootstrap supply | Delivers regulated output; also supplies internal gate drive; requires ≥1μF ceramic capacitor near pin |
| FB (Pin 8) | Feedback input | Resistor divider midpoint; senses output voltage; input bias current ≤50nA enables high-impedance dividers |
| VC (Pin 9) | Error amplifier output | Loop compensation node; connects to RC network for OPTI-LOOP® stability; transconductance = 85 μmhos |
| SHDN (Pin 10) | Shutdown control | Ground = shutdown (<1μA IQ); >1V = active; hysteresis possible via resistor divider for low-VIN applications |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Burst Mode® operation | Reduces quiescent current to 38μA at light loads while maintaining regulation; eliminates audible noise and improves battery runtime |
| Synchronous rectification | Integrated 0.18Ω P-channel MOSFET replaces Schottky diode - enables >97% efficiency and eliminates diode forward drop losses |
| Antiringing control | Actively damps SW-node LC resonance during DCM - suppresses high-frequency EMI without external snubber components |
| OPTI-LOOP® compensation | Single-pole compensation via VC pin - simplifies loop design and ensures stability across input/output/load variations |
| Low-voltage start-up | Starts from 0.85V typical - supports direct connection to partially discharged single-cell batteries without pre-boost |
Applications
| Pagers | Handheld Instruments |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered paging devices requiring long standby time and reliable wake-up from deep discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary step-up regulator converting 1.0–1.5V alkaline/NiMH cell to stable 3.3V system rail. Use Value: 38μA Burst Mode quiescent current extends shelf life; 0.85V start-up ensures operation even after prolonged storage. | Use Scenario: Portable multimeters, data loggers, and field sensors powered by two AA cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency boost converter generating 5V from 2.4–3.0V input for microcontroller and analog front-end rails. Use Value: 97% peak efficiency and 3MHz capability allow miniaturized magnetics; antiringing control meets Class B EMI limits. |
| Cordless Phones | GPS Receivers |
Use Scenario: Base station and handset subsystems needing clean, low-noise 3.3V supply for RF and audio ICs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-frequency (1–2MHz) boost regulator synchronized to system clock to avoid IF band interference. Use Value: MODE/SYNC pin enables EMI-aware frequency alignment; PGOOD output confirms rail integrity before RF activation. | Use Scenario: Portable GPS modules operating from Li-ion or coin-cell sources with strict cold-start requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-cell (2.5–4.2V) to 3.3V boost converter powering GPS baseband and RF sections. Use Value: 1.6A current limit supports pulsed GPS acquisition current; thermal shutdown protects during antenna coupling events. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous boost converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTC3402EMS#PBF | 2A switch current rating; otherwise identical architecture, pinout, and feature set | Required for >1A output loads; same footprint and compensation strategy | Select when peak output current exceeds 1A; no layout change needed |
| LTC3423EDD#PBF | Lower 2.6V minimum output; optimized for sub-3V outputs; different compensation and start-up behavior | Suitable for 2.5V–3.3V outputs from single-cell inputs where LTC3401EMS#PBF cannot regulate below 2.6V | Choose for VOUT < 2.6V applications; not pin-compatible - requires redesign |
Compared with LTC3402EMS#PBF, the LTC3401EMS#PBF trades peak current capacity for smaller solution size and lower gate charge losses at moderate loads; versus LTC3423EDD#PBF, it offers higher output flexibility but lacks sub-2.6V regulation - making each optimal for distinct voltage and current envelopes.
Availability
LTC3401EMS#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation, handheld communications, and GPS receiver designs requiring stable component supply, long battery life, and low-noise power conversion.
Supply support for LTC3401EMS#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 acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains full product support, documentation, and manufacturing continuity for legacy Linear parts including the LTC3401EMS#PBF.
The LTC3401EMS#PBF belongs to Linear's micropower DC/DC converter family, designed specifically for battery-powered portable systems demanding ultra-low IQ, wide input range, and high light-load efficiency without sacrificing transient performance.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for the LTC3401EMS#PBF to start up?
The LTC3401EMS#PBF has a typical start-up voltage of 0.85V and guarantees operation down to 1.0V across temperature. It can begin regulation from a single partially discharged alkaline or NiMH cell. Once VOUT exceeds ~2.3V, the device self-biases from VOUT, allowing continued operation even if VIN drops below 0.5V - though energy delivery becomes limited by source capability.
Does the LTC3401EMS#PBF require an external Schottky diode?
No - the LTC3401EMS#PBF integrates a synchronous P-channel rectifier and does not require an external Schottky diode for VOUT < 4.3V. For outputs above 4.3V, an external Schottky (e.g., MBRM120T3) is mandatory to prevent SW pin overvoltage beyond its 6V absolute maximum rating. Adding a Schottky at any VOUT improves peak efficiency by reducing transition losses during NMOS-to-PMOS dead time.
How is Burst Mode® enabled or disabled on the LTC3401EMS#PBF?
Burst Mode® is controlled directly via the MODE/SYNC pin: driving it high (≥1.4V) enables Burst Mode operation with 38μA quiescent current; pulling it low (≤0.4V) forces fixed-frequency PWM mode. It is recommended to enable Burst Mode only after the converter has fully started - applying high logic before start-up may inhibit proper initialization. External clock signals on this pin disable Burst Mode and synchronize the oscillator.
What is the purpose of the antiringing control in the LTC3401EMS#PBF?
The antiringing control in the LTC3401EMS#PBF actively damps high-frequency ringing on the SW pin during discontinuous conduction mode by placing a controlled impedance across the inductor–SW node capacitance. This eliminates radiated EMI without requiring external snubber networks, simplifying layout and improving EMC compliance - especially critical in handheld RF-sensitive applications like GPS receivers and cordless phones.
Can the LTC3401EMS#PBF be used in CCFL backlight applications?
Yes - the LTC3401EMS#PBF is explicitly referenced in Linear's datasheet for high-efficiency, compact CCFL supply designs with remote dimming. Its high switching frequency (up to 3MHz), precise current limiting, and stable current-mode control enable efficient transformer-driven CCFL topologies. Application Note AN-76 and datasheet Figure TA08 provide validated schematics using LTC3401EMS#PBF with external transistor drivers and resonant tank components.
LTC3401EMS#PBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Boost
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 0.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 2.6V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 1A (Switch)
- Frequency - Switching:
- 2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-MSOP
LTC3401EMS#PBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC3401EMS#PBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC3401EMS#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 LTC3401EMS#PBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC3401EMS#PBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC3401EMS#PBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC3401EMS#PBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC3401EMS#PBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC3401EMS#PBF?
LTC3401EMS#PBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC3401EMS#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 LTC3401EMS#PBF?
For technical support, including LTC3401EMS#PBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC3401EMS#PBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC3401EMS#PBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC3401EMS#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 LTC3401EMS#PBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC3401EMS#PBF?
All LTC3401EMS#PBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC3401EMS#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 LTC3401EMS#PBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC3401EMS#PBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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