Analog Devices Inc. LTC3612IFE#PBF
- Part No.:
- LTC3612IFE#PBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Package:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC3612IFE#PBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 3A 20TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LTC3612IFE#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 3A, 4MHz monolithic synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with current-mode control, 2.25V–5.5V input range, ±1% output voltage accuracy, and 100% duty cycle capability for low-dropout operation in battery-powered systems. It supports Burst Mode® (70µA IQ), forced continuous mode, and external synchronization up to 4MHz.
For engineers reviewing the LTC3612IFE#PBF datasheet, LTC3612IFE#PBF pinout, LTC3612IFE#PBF application, or LTC3612IFE#PBF equivalent, key selection considerations include its 20-pin TSSOP package with exposed PGND pad, DDR memory termination support (±1.5A), programmable soft-start via TRACK/SS, and selectable operating modes (Burst/Pulse-Skipping/Forced Continuous) for noise-sensitive or high-efficiency designs.
Technical Context
The LTC3612IFE#PBF implements constant-frequency current-mode control with internal P-channel high-side and N-channel synchronous rectifier switches. Its error amplifier drives the ITH pin to regulate peak inductor current, while MODE pin voltage selects between Burst Mode (internal/external clamp), Pulse-Skipping, or Forced Continuous operation - directly affecting light-load efficiency and output ripple.
It features dual reference architecture: 0.6V internal reference (DDR = SGND) or adjustable external reference (DDR = SVIN), enabling tracking and AVP. The RT/SYNC pin supports resistor-programmed frequency (300kHz–4MHz), external clock synchronization, or internal 2.25MHz oscillator - all with automatic slope compensation adaptation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 3A continuous; supports ±1.5A sinking for DDR termination applications |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.25V to 5.5V; compatible with single Li-Ion and fixed low-voltage rails |
| Quiescent Current | 70µA in Burst Mode® sleep; ≤1µA in shutdown - extends battery life |
| Switching Frequency | Programmable up to 4MHz; enables use of sub-1µH inductors and compact layouts |
| Output Accuracy | ±1% over temperature and line/load; ensures stable regulation for precision loads |
| Duty Cycle | 100% capability; maintains regulation down to VOUT + RDS(ON)_PCH × IOUT |
| Package | 20-pin plastic TSSOP with exposed thermal pad (PGND); θJA = 38°C/W |
Pinout & Package
The LTC3612IFE#PBF is housed in a 20-lead plastic TSSOP package with an exposed thermal pad (Pin 21) that must be soldered to PCB ground for rated thermal performance (θJA = 38°C/W). Pin numbering follows standard JEDEC TSSOP top-view orientation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SVIN (Pin 1) | Signal Input Supply | Powers control circuitry; monitored by UVLO (1.7V/2.25V thresholds) |
| RUN (Pin 2) | Enable Input | Active-high enable; <0.4V disables regulator and reduces IQ to ≤1µA |
| PGOOD (Pin 3) | Open-Drain Power Good | Indicates VFB within ±7.5% window after 105µs blanking time |
| MODE (Pin 4) | Operating Mode Control | Selects Burst Mode (SGND), Pulse-Skipping (SVIN), or Forced Continuous (1.1V–0.58×SVIN) |
| VFB (Pin 5) | Feedback Input | Senses resistive divider output; referenced to 0.6V internal or external TRACK/SS voltage |
| ITH (Pin 6) | Error Amplifier Output | Controls peak inductor current; tied to SVIN enables internal compensation and AVP |
| TRACK/SS (Pin 7) | Soft-Start / Tracking / Reference | Enables internal soft-start (to SVIN), external timing (RC), or supply tracking (to another rail) |
| DDR (Pin 8) | DDR Mode Select | Tied to SGND → 0.6V ref; tied to SVIN → TRACK/SS as external reference for DDR termination |
| RT/SYNC (Pin 9) | Oscillator Control | Resistor-to-GND sets fSW (300kHz–4MHz); external clock sync up to 4MHz |
| SGND (Pin 10) | Signal Ground | Reference for small-signal pins; must connect to PGND at single point |
| SW (Pins 12,14,17,19) | Switch Node | Connects to inductor; shared node of internal PCH/NCH MOSFETs |
| PVIN (Pins 15,16) | Power Input Supply | Source of internal P-channel switch; may be lower than SVIN for efficiency optimization |
| PVIN_DRV (Pin 20) | Gate Driver Supply | Must be connected to PVIN to ensure proper high-side gate drive |
| PGND (Pin 21) | Power Ground | Exposed thermal pad; connects to source of internal N-channel switch and PCB ground plane |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Synchronous Buck Architecture | Eliminates external catch diode; improves efficiency up to 95% and reduces board area |
| Adjustable Compensation via ITH | Enables transient response optimization across wide load/output capacitor ranges |
| Programmable Soft-Start & Tracking | Prevents inrush current and enables controlled power-up sequencing with other supplies |
| DDR Memory Termination Support | Provides ±1.5A bidirectional current capability with dedicated DDR pin and tracking mode |
| Multiple Low-Noise Operating Modes | Forced Continuous (low ripple), Pulse-Skipping (moderate IQ), Burst Mode® (70µA IQ) |
Applications
| Point-of-Load Regulation | Portable Computing Power |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Local 1.2V/1.8V supply for FPGA core or SoC I/O banks on dense PCBs with tight space constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary synchronous buck regulator delivering regulated output with fast transient response and minimal footprint. Use Value: 4MHz switching enables <1µH inductors; 20-pin TSSOP with exposed pad ensures thermal reliability at 3A load. |
Use Scenario: Main system rail in ultrabooks or tablets powered by single-cell Li-Ion (2.8V–4.2V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency step-down converter supporting dynamic voltage scaling and deep-sleep states. Use Value: 70µA Burst Mode® IQ extends battery runtime; 100% duty cycle sustains output during battery discharge. |
| DDR Memory Interface | Industrial Distributed Power |
|
Use Scenario: Termination supply for DDR3/DDR4 memory modules requiring bidirectional ±1.5A current sourcing/sinking. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: DDR-specific buck regulator with TRACK/SS-based tracking and DDR pin-enabled reference selection. Use Value: Internal 0.6V reference or external TRACK/SS reference ensures precise VTT regulation aligned with memory VDDQ. |
Use Scenario: Secondary 3.3V or 2.5V rail in industrial PLCs or edge controllers fed from 5V or 12V intermediate bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust, thermally enhanced local regulator supporting extended temperature range (–40°C to 125°C). Use Value: TSSOP package with exposed PGND pad delivers 38°C/W θJA; integrated protection prevents latch-up under overload. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS54332DR | 3A, 5.5V max VIN, fixed 500kHz/1MHz freq; no Burst Mode®, higher 125µA IQ | Lacks DDR termination mode and external tracking; less suitable for ultra-low-IQ portable designs | Choose for cost-sensitive industrial applications where 125µA IQ is acceptable and 4MHz switching not required |
| MP2315GJ-Z | 3A, 6V max VIN, 1.4MHz fixed freq; no MODE pin control, no DDR mode, no external sync | Single operating mode only; no programmable soft-start or AVP; limited flexibility in noise-sensitive systems | Choose for simple, fixed-frequency point-of-load use where pin count and feature set are secondary to BOM simplicity |
Compared with TPS54332DR and MP2315GJ-Z, the LTC3612IFE#PBF offers superior light-load efficiency via Burst Mode®, flexible frequency programming up to 4MHz, and dedicated DDR termination capability - making it optimal for portable, memory-intensive, and thermally constrained designs.
Availability
LTC3612IFE#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-of-load regulation, portable computing power, DDR memory termination, and industrial distributed power applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed temperature-grade compliance.
Supply support for LTC3612IFE#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 its high-performance analog and power management portfolio. Linear's legacy emphasizes precision, efficiency, and robustness in power conversion ICs.
The LTC3612IFE#PBF belongs to Linear's monolithic synchronous buck regulator family, designed specifically for high-density, high-efficiency DC/DC conversion in space- and power-constrained applications including portable electronics and memory subsystems.
FAQ
What is the maximum switching frequency supported by the LTC3612IFE#PBF?
The LTC3612IFE#PBF supports a maximum switching frequency of 4MHz when synchronized to an external clock signal applied to the RT/SYNC pin. It can also be resistor-programmed from 300kHz to 4MHz, or operate at its internal default frequency of 2.25MHz when RT/SYNC is tied to SVIN. This high-frequency capability allows use of very small inductors and capacitors, reducing solution size significantly.
Does the LTC3612IFE#PBF support DDR memory termination, and how is it configured?
Yes, the LTC3612IFE#PBF supports DDR memory termination with ±1.5A bidirectional current capability. Configuration requires tying the DDR pin (Pin 8) to SVIN to enable DDR mode, which repurposes the TRACK/SS pin as an external reference input. In this mode, the regulator tracks an external voltage reference, enabling precise VTT regulation aligned with DDR VDDQ - critical for signal integrity in high-speed memory interfaces.
How does the MODE pin affect operating behavior in the LTC3612IFE#PBF?
The MODE pin (Pin 4) of the LTC3612IFE#PBF selects among four distinct operating modes: grounding it enables Burst Mode® with internal clamp (70µA IQ); connecting it to SVIN enables Pulse-Skipping Mode (moderate IQ, reduced ripple); applying 1.1V–0.58×SVIN enables Forced Continuous Mode (lowest ripple, highest noise); and applying 0.45V–0.8V enables externally clamped Burst Mode. Each setting directly determines light-load efficiency, output ripple, and EMI profile.
What thermal design considerations apply to the LTC3612IFE#PBF in TSSOP package?
The LTC3612IFE#PBF in 20-pin TSSOP has a thermal resistance θJA of 38°C/W. Its exposed PGND pad (Pin 21) must be soldered to a minimum 100mm² copper area on the PCB to achieve rated performance. At 3A load and 5V input, power dissipation reaches ~0.5W; without adequate copper pour and vias, junction temperature may exceed 125°C. Thermal simulation and IR imaging are recommended for high-ambient or sealed-environment deployments.
Can the LTC3612IFE#PBF operate with input voltage below 2.5V, and what limitations apply?
Yes, the LTC3612IFE#PBF operates down to 2.25V input. However, at low VIN near VOUT, RDS(ON) of the internal P-channel switch increases significantly - e.g., from 70mΩ at 3.3V to >100mΩ at 2.5V - raising conduction loss and thermal stress. Also, 100% duty cycle operation reduces headroom for regulation margin. Designers must verify power dissipation and output stability under worst-case low-VIN, high-IOUT conditions using the device's efficiency vs. VIN curves.
LTC3612IFE#PBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 2.25V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.6V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 3A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 300kHz ~ 4MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-TSSOP-EP
LTC3612IFE#PBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC3612IFE#PBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC3612IFE#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 LTC3612IFE#PBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC3612IFE#PBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC3612IFE#PBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC3612IFE#PBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC3612IFE#PBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC3612IFE#PBF?
LTC3612IFE#PBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC3612IFE#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 LTC3612IFE#PBF?
For technical support, including LTC3612IFE#PBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC3612IFE#PBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC3612IFE#PBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC3612IFE#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 LTC3612IFE#PBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC3612IFE#PBF?
All LTC3612IFE#PBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC3612IFE#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 LTC3612IFE#PBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC3612IFE#PBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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